Shokz: A Unique Approach to Headphones
Introduction
Shokz is an interesting and innovative company that continues to surprise and impress with their unconventional approach to headphone technology. From their initial bone conduction headphones to their latest creation, OpenFit, Shokz consistently pushes the boundaries of what is possible in the world of audio devices.
Revolutionizing the Industry
In their first iteration, Shokz introduced bone conduction headphones, a concept that involved conducting sound waves through the user’s skull. While this approach was initially uncomfortable for many, it showcased Shokz’s commitment to innovation and unconventional ideas. Despite initial reservations, Shokz proved that they were capable of delivering a unique listening experience.
However, it was the release of OpenRun Pro from 2022 that truly captured the attention of both critics and consumers. These training headphones were lightweight, secure, and surprisingly good sounding, making them a favorite among fitness enthusiasts. Unlike traditional headphones, OpenRun Pro allowed users to stay aware of their surroundings, making them ideal for activities like biking or gardening.
Eager to see what Shokz would come up with next, I was immensely curious about their latest product – OpenFit. Shokz spokespersons noted that customers wanted comfortable, all-day headphones that didn’t wrap around their neck and didn’t have to be snugly fit into the ear canal. OpenFit answered this demand by introducing “air conduction” technology. These open headphones feature tiny speakers that emit sound directly above the ear canal.
Unique Features and Design
While OpenFit headphones are not without their flaws, they remain one of the most interesting headphones I have ever tried. In a crowded market, Shokz’s willingness to think outside the box sets them apart. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key features of OpenFit headphones:
- Compact and palm-sized case with a power indicator light and a USB-C charging port
- Soft silicone covering and slim ear hooks for a secure fit
- Weighs 8.3 grams, slightly heavier than some competitors
Despite their unique design, OpenFit headphones may not feel as secure, especially during physical activities or when wearing accessories like sunglasses or a bike helmet. The positioning of the headphones can become easily disrupted, requiring readjustments. Additionally, the buttons on the headphones can be sensitive and may be accidentally pressed, affecting the playback or functions.
Achieving the Impossible
Shokz’s claim of inventing air conduction technology is audacious yet impressive. While most sound waves are conducted through air, Shokz has managed to create a small speaker capable of emitting high-quality sound when positioned close to the ear. This feat alone showcases Shokz’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in headphone technology.
Conclusion
Shokz continues to disrupt the headphone industry with their innovative and unconventional products. While OpenFit headphones may have their limitations, they are undeniably captivating and represent a step towards a more comfortable and immersive audio experience. Shokz’s willingness to take risks and challenge traditional design principles sets them apart, making them a company to watch in the future.
Summary
Shokz, a company known for its innovative approach to headphone technology, has introduced OpenFit headphones. These unique headphones utilize air conduction technology, where sound is emitted directly above the ear canal through tiny speakers. Despite their quirks and issues with security, OpenFit headphones offer an interesting alternative to traditional headphone designs. Shokz’s dedication to pushing boundaries and thinking outside the box has led them to create captivating products that capture the attention of both critics and consumers. While OpenFit headphones may not be perfect, the company’s commitment to innovation sets them apart in a competitive market.
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shokz is one of the most reliable interesting companies I cover, which is saying a lot. In his first iteration, he did bone conduction headphones, which conducted sound waves through his skull, which were so profoundly uncomfortable that we said we’d rather not wear headphones. Then OpenRun Pro from 2022 (8/10, WIRED recommends) somehow became one of my favorite pairs of training headphones. They were lightweight, secure, and surprisingly good sounding, and they let me keep an eye out for traffic or kids while listening to podcasts while biking or gardening.
So I was immensely curious about the company’s latest product. In a briefing, Shokz spokespersons noted that customers wanted comfortable, all-day headphones that didn’t wrap around their neck and didn’t have to be snug, snug, or thermo-molded into their ear canal. Therefore, OpenFit are open headphones that are based on “air conduction” technology. They are tiny speakers that emit sound directly above your ear canal.
do the headphones work perfectly? No. But are these some of the most interesting headphones that I have ever tried? Yes, and in a crowded market, that’s a lot.
hangers on
Photography: Shokz
OpenFit headphones come in a compact, palm-sized case with a power indicator light and a USB-C charging port. Each bud is covered in soft silicone and has a slim ear hook, with a small weight at the bottom to keep it in place. Each button weighs 8.3 grams, about 3 grams more than my Beats Fit Pro (9/10, WIRED recommends). I didn’t notice much of a weight difference.
The earbuds came with instructions on how to slide the buds into place, but you still had to confirm that directly with Shokz. It just doesn’t seem like this should work. He slides the headphones back and places the body of the unit behind the tragus of his ear. (That’s the little bump that sticks out and protects your ear canal, and yeah, I had to look up what it’s called.)
It works, but it doesn’t feel as secure, especially if you’re not sitting quietly at your desk. It wasn’t until I tried OpenFit that I realized my ears are really the hooks on my head. I tuck my long hair behind them; I wear sunglasses every time I go out and put them on top of my head. With almost every move, I dislodged the OpenFits and had to find them in my hair or on the floor.
I also accidentally pushed the buttons a lot. The buttons themselves are unreliable; sometimes they are sensitive enough that readjusting my hair can stop a song. Other times I can purposefully hit “jump” multiple times at a traffic light to no avail.
I tried using them in one of my favorite ways to use OpenRun Pro, to listen to music while riding my bike to pick up my kids from school. But the combination of hair, sunglasses, and bike helmet was too much for the OpenFits. I spent the entire trip paralyzed by the fear that I would accidentally hit the fitting rooms and crush them with the wheels of my bike, so when I got to my sons’ school I put them back in my pocket for the ride home.
wave motion
Photography: Shokz
I admire the arrogance of a company that claims to have invented air conduction technology. Most sound waves are conducted through air (after all, air is the medium between you and your speakers), but making a speaker this small, sounding this good, designed to be used as close to your ear, is actually quite a feat. .
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