Shokz OpenFit Air Review: Great Sound, Not for Glasses Wearers

Are Shokz OpenFit Air the Best Open-Ear Headphones for Runners?

As a dedicated runner, finding the perfect pair of earbuds can be a challenge, especially when safety and sound quality are concerned. After trying out various options, I recently explored the Shokz OpenFit Air, a model that uses traditional air conduction technology, which aims to provide situational awareness without sacrificing sound quality.

Why Open-Ear Headphones?

After my previous experience with the Beats Fit Pro, I realized that I needed something that would keep me aware of my surroundings while running in the suburbs, where traffic is often more unpredictable. Open-ear headphones seemed like a logical choice, but the challenge was to find one that didn’t compromise on sound quality, particularly bass.

The Performance of Shokz OpenFit Air

Priced at $119.95, the Shokz OpenFit Air aims to fill this niche. Although Shokz is renowned for its bone conduction headphones, the OpenFit Air employs a different approach with air conduction. Sitting just above your ear canal, the speakers are designed to provide clearer audio compared to bone conduction headphones.

Bass Performance

Anyone familiar with open-ear headphones knows that they typically struggle with delivering a robust bass experience. The Shokz OpenFit Air performs decently in this regard, offering a sound quality that’s less muddy than traditional bone conduction options. While running beside busy streets, I found that I could catch the beats in songs, even if they weren’t entirely crystal clear.

Commuting with Comfort

Using the OpenFit Air on my daily commutes revealed some pros and cons. In quieter environments, like a calm NJ Transit bus, they performed admirably. However, the noise from a bustling New York City subway rendered them nearly useless, drowning out audiobooks and music alike. Fortunately, I did not face any significant issues with sound leakage, likely due to the noise levels on the subway.

Battery Life and Comfort

The Shokz OpenFit Air has a respectable battery life of approximately six hours on a single charge. Additionally, a quick 10-minute charge provides two hours of playtime, which should last for most casual runs unless you’re an ultramarathoner. Rated at IP55, these earbuds are also sweat and water-resistant, making them suitable for workouts.

In terms of comfort, despite being lightweight, the ear hooks can feel cumbersome, especially if you wear glasses. The pliability of the hooks helps, but they may take up more space than anticipated, potentially leading to discomfort during longer wear.

Everyday Use

I was pleasantly surprised to find the OpenFit Air suitable for everyday tasks as well. Unlike bone conduction headphones, which can feel overly sporty, these buds offer a more refined aesthetic, akin to Bose Ultra Open Earbuds. I enjoyed using them while cooking or doing household chores, as they allowed me to stay alert to my surroundings while still engaging with my audiobooks and podcasts.

Conclusion: The Ongoing Quest for the Perfect Earbuds

While the Shokz OpenFit Air comes close to being a suitable alternative to the Beats Fit Pro, I’m still on the hunt for the ultimate pair of running earbuds. The combination of decent bass, comfort, and affordability makes them a compelling option for many. However, for those who prioritize security during more demanding activities or prefer something tailored for wearing glasses, a different design might be more appropriate.

If you're interested in exploring more options, consider reading our articles on the best running headphones and top earbud brands. Your perfect pair may still be out there waiting for you!