Shokz OpenSwim Pro Review: A Game-Changer in Waterproof Audio
Swimming laps can often feel like an endless cycle of strokes and splashes, a monotonous rhythm that can drain motivation. The quest for quality underwater audio has been a long and often disappointing journey—until the Shokz OpenSwim Pro entered the scene.
Imagine powering through your swim sessions with crisp, clear sound accompanying each stroke. Priced at £169 ($179.95), the OpenSwim Pro promises to deliver just that. Helen Webster, Editor of 220 Triathlon and a seasoned Level 2 Open-Water Swim Coach, put these headphones to the test in real swimming conditions. Her verdict? A resounding 92% score, with a few honest caveats.
In this review, we'll explore what sets the OpenSwim Pro apart, its performance underwater, comfort and design considerations, and whether it's the right investment for you.
What Sets the Shokz OpenSwim Pro Apart
The Bone Conduction Edge
The magic of the OpenSwim Pro lies in its bone conduction technology. Unlike traditional headphones, these transmit sound through vibrations in your cheekbones, bypassing the outer and middle ear. This is why they excel underwater, where regular speakers falter.
Shokz, formerly known as Aftershokz, has been perfecting this technology since 2011. Their expertise is evident in the OpenSwim Pro, which offers a unique listening experience that stands out in the waterproof headphone market.
Versatile Dual-Mode Functionality
A standout feature of the OpenSwim Pro is its dual-mode functionality, allowing both Bluetooth connectivity and standalone MP3 playback. This is a significant upgrade from the standard OpenSwim model, which only supports MP3.
Bluetooth mode lets you stream from your phone on dry land, while MP3 mode takes over in the water, playing from the headphones' internal storage. This versatility makes the Pro model a valuable companion beyond the pool—perfect for triathletes who need gear that works across all three disciplines.
Ample Storage for Endless Entertainment
With 32GB of internal memory, the OpenSwim Pro offers a staggering amount of storage compared to the standard model's 4GB. This means you can load thousands of songs, podcasts, and audiobooks, ensuring you never run out of entertainment during your training sessions.
Real-World Performance: Diving into the Details
Unmatched Sound Quality Underwater
Sound quality is the ultimate test for any waterproof headphone, and the OpenSwim Pro excels. Helen Webster notes:
"Sound quality here is sharp and clear, and I was impressed by the playback underwater, with no muffling of the sound."
This clarity is a game-changer, as many waterproof headphones suffer from muffled audio once submerged. The bone conduction technology ensures that the sound remains crisp, whether your head is above or below the surface—essential for those long pool sessions.
Waterproof and Ready for Action
The OpenSwim Pro boasts an IP68 waterproof rating, allowing submersion in freshwater up to 2 meters deep for up to 2 hours. This high level of protection ensures reliability during your swim sessions.
However, Shokz recommends a maximum of 2 hours of continuous swim use. While Helen's testing exceeded this limit without issues, it's wise to adhere to the guidelines to ensure the longevity of your device.
User-Friendly Controls
Operating headphones while swimming requires intuitive controls, and the OpenSwim Pro delivers. With simple buttons for power, volume, and track control, these headphones are easy to use even with wet hands.
Long-Lasting Battery Life
Battery performance is another strong point:
- 9 hours in Bluetooth mode
- 6 hours in MP3 mode
- Quick charge: 10 minutes for 3 hours of playback
The quick-charge feature is particularly handy, ensuring you're never caught without power before a swim.
Design and Comfort: A Closer Look
What's Included
The OpenSwim Pro package comes with:
- The headphone unit (available in red or grey)
- A soft zip pouch case
- Earplugs in a hard case
- Charging cable
Secure Charging and Comfort Considerations
The charging cable offers a more secure connection than many competitors, reducing the risk of interrupted charging. Comfort-wise, the bone conduction design is generally unobtrusive, though longer swim sessions may cause some discomfort under a tight swim cap.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Strengths
- Exceptional underwater sound clarity
- Impressive battery life with quick-charge feature
- Generous 32GB storage
- Versatile dual-mode functionality
- Intuitive controls for swimming
Limitations
- Premium price point
- 2-hour recommended swim time
- Potential ear discomfort on longer sessions
- Freshwater use only
Is the OpenSwim Pro Right for You?
Best Suited For
Serious swimmers and triathletes will find the OpenSwim Pro invaluable. If you swim multiple times a week and crave motivation, these headphones can transform your sessions. For those training for an Ironman 70.3 or full-distance race, maintaining motivation during swim training is crucial.
Regular lap swimmers will appreciate the storage and dual-mode flexibility, while multi-sport athletes can benefit from the Bluetooth mode for other activities.
Consider Alternatives If
Budget is a concern. The standard OpenSwim offers a more affordable option with MP3 playback.
You're an occasional swimmer. The cost-per-use may not justify the investment.
You swim primarily in the sea. The freshwater-only recommendation is a significant limitation for open water swimmers.
You regularly swim for extended periods. Consider the 2-hour swim recommendation carefully.
Conclusion: A Worthy Investment
The Shokz OpenSwim Pro earns its 92% score by delivering exceptional underwater sound, reliability, and usability. While there are limitations, the performance justifies the premium price for those who swim regularly.
If you're ready to enhance your swimming experience and looking for quality triathlon gear, the OpenSwim Pro is a sound investment that will keep you motivated and entertained in the water. Pair it with proper swim goggles and a quality tri suit for the complete training setup.
Find the perfect swim gear at TriLaunchpad — your triathlon journey starts here. Shop all collections →
