Shokz OpenRun Mini are shockingly good bone conduction headphones for runners and cyclists

With its ability to produce high quality audio via Bluetooth, in a lightweight compact design, the OpenRun Mini are my favorite bone conduction headphones.
If you’re a trail runner or mountain biker who loves training outdoors while listening to music these are a must have! Being able to hear the environment around you is paramount, especially if you have to be on the road. And because the sound is virtually undetectable unless you are wearing them, you won’t have to worry about it being a nuisance to other people around you.
If you thought it looked familiar you are right. Shokz took everything good about the “Aeropex”, made a few improvements, and rebranded it the "OpenRun". This newest version includes their 8th generation bone conduction technology, Bluetooth 5.1 and is IP67 waterproof.
I’m so impressed with the build quality and clarity of the audio, that I have no problem recommending the OpenRun to anyone interested in bone conduction headphones.
amzn.to/3X9S8h2 (affiliate link)
It won’t cost you anything extra to use this link, but it helps me to continue making these reviews.
ADDITIONAL INFO
To learn more about Shokz (formally known as AfterShokz), and their full lineup of products, check out their website: shokz.com/
Shokz OpenRun Standard vs. Mini Sizing
• Video
If you have any feedback or questions leave them in the comments below. And if you liked the video and you want to see more content like this feel free to check out my other videos on Trail Sage. Thanks
Help support the channel at:
www.buymeacoffee.com/trailsage
Footage notes: Most shots were taken at Rolling Hill Park and Mill Creek Park (aka Hollow Woods) in Gladwyne PA, Trexeler Nature Preserve in Schnecksville PA, Rocky Ridge Park in York PA, and on the streets and parks of Ardmore, Havertown and Wynnewood PA. #Shokz #OpenRun #BoneConduction #RunningGear #CyclingGear #CyclingTech #Tech #Gadgets
Wordpress: trail-sage.com/2022/11/16/ope...
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Table of Contents:
0:00 Intro
0:48 Product details
2:18 Does bone conduction actually work?
3:04 My likes
4:50 Dislikes
5:47 Distortion test
7:00 Pricing
7:22 Conclusion
8:14 Bloopers
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through the above links. Commissions earned through the Amazon Affiliate links help support this channel's content creation. Thank you!

[@KirstenQuickFit]

Pristine review Sage! I've never heard of these- pretty crazy how the bone conduction works-I had no idea!! Cool b-roll of your running and cycling! It's cool they're on the outside of your ear-that makes it so much safer when outside! I like how you include the good and the setbacks-very well-rounded review! I don't like running with my phone-when I do- I just hold it in my hand!! I usually only run about 4 miles-so no big deal for me! Fantastic job Sage!! 😀

[@TrailSage]

Thanks Kirsten. Anytime I review a product that works well for many disciplines it's always nuts collecting/shooting all that b-roll, lol. Glad you thought it was worth it. As for 4 miles, that's awesome, I am not a long distance runner myself.

[@andyashla]

That was a fantastic review! Keep them coming.

[@TrailSage]

Thanks Andy, I had a lot of fun making this one.

[@evawoods815]

Thank you - great review and a great help for me with my decision which one to buy! 👍🏻 And I love the outtakes at the end! 🤩🥳😄👏🏻

[@TrailSage]

Right on Eva. Thank you for the kind words. Happy to help. Have a great weekend.

[@markg99]

The production quality and effort you put into this video really shines through here, Sage. I loved the experiment with the guitar. If I was in the market for earphones I would snap these up after your detailed review. Keep up the good work buddy! 👍🏻🏃‍♂️

[@TrailSage]

Thank you so much Mark!!! I'm a little embarrassed to admit how long these reviews take to make so your compliment means a lot. Side note, I hope the house hunting goes well and good luck in your training for the upcoming 50k ultra!

[@FitnesswithMeg]

Thanks for this review!! It is so helpful and I really learned a lot! This is great info, I will keep it in mind!

[@TrailSage]

Thanks Meg and happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.

[@ckMTB]

Great video Sage, that was very interesting and as always you gave a great overview of the gadget, thanks for that mate. Keep up the good work and ride on🤙. Have a great day🙌

[@TrailSage]

Thanks Christoph. These are great for solo mountain bike rides if you like music while you shred.

[@DaniellaJoyFitness]

Doing some KZbin catching up this evening and I’m so glad you have a new video!😊 watching now

[@TrailSage]

Thank you Daniella!!!

[@ixodesricinus3001]

i`ve been loving you gear reviews lately. Not many reviewers on youtube know what they`re talking about and you do exactly the tests i need to decide whether something is worth buying or not. Thanks a lot!

[@TrailSage]

Thank you so much for the kind words. I know how much I depend on good reviews when making purchases, so I try my best to illustrate the things I like and dislike about a product in a clear and honest way.

[@UltraTrailSteven]

Amazing review! Love the example with the guitar; very creative. Seems like great headphones!

[@TrailSage]

Thanks Steven. I wish they had a longer battery life though. It would be helpful in longer endurance activities.

[@brunodalbiez]

Brilliant review! Thank you. Balanced, objective and thorough.

[@TrailSage]

Thank you so much Bruno. I appreciate the kind words and feedback.

[@MihaiGoRunning]

Awesome clip, Sage, dear friend! Great review, as always, mate! Love the running perspective, biking and usual perspective as well! Great stuff! Love how you make your clips, you're an inspiration, Sage! 👍

[@TrailSage]

Thanks Mihai. It's a lot of work but I love doing it.

[@kenfromphilly752]

Awesome review, Sage! I struggled with prior versions while wearing prescription sports glasses on my runs/rides as both wanted space around the top of the ear. Add on an ear covering head band for winter warmth and, well, constant adjusting to find comfort.

[@TrailSage]

Thanks Ken. Regarding your past struggles, I can see how that could be an issue. I'm not sure the new version will solve those concerns since the overall design still requires that same amount of space.

[@DevRunner]

I always appreciate how comprehensive your reviews are.! I love classical guitar and the Led Zeppelin! I want to see you play Immigrant Song! I've been playing with the idea of buying some bone conduction headphones for the days I don't want to blast my music from my phone speaker! Thanks for this one Sage! Keep pushing!

[@TrailSage]

Paul you should def pull the trigger on these, they are definitely worth it, especially considering how much you run outdoors. Thanks for watching. Oh, and I think I will leave the guitar playing to you brotha ;)

[@stingers96]

using Shook for years....love them great review, just have to have a few pair for longer events

[@TrailSage]

I was wondering how you ultra guys cope with the battery issue. Thanks for watching and commenting brotha, it means a lot.

[@BenNotley]

I love my Shokz. I wear them every day. Even when I am at work. So comfy and I almost forget I have them on. Great review Sage! 😎🤘

[@TrailSage]

Thanks Ben. I totally agree! They are so light and comfy I barely notice them.

[@NomadTerraCrawlers]

Always been pondering whether to get a bone conduction tech earphones. Thanks for this. I like how you demonstrated it with a guitar. You always make good vids. Shokz really pulled this one off quite well.

[@TrailSage]

Thanks Simon. I am not sure how they would hold up on your long runs since the battery life is only 8 hours but they have been great for me.

[@NomadTerraCrawlers]

@@TrailSage 8 hours is more than I need. I only use earphones on road runs, on which I only run 2 hours max. As for the long ones in trail, no earphones for me. This would be useful for travel. Fantastic review Sage.

[@leadingsidekick]

Huge props! Your review made me buy these. Im glad I did! Thanks!

[@TrailSage]

Right on Micah. Glad the review was helpful. Btw, are you the same Micah that rides with Mark on Strava?

[@leadingsidekick]

@@TrailSage thats me!

[@TrailSage]

@@leadingsidekick Cool, I just followed you back.

[@RPA1999]

Thank you. Honest and thorough review.

[@TrailSage]

Right on, glad you found it helpful. Thanks for commenting.

[@duncanwalshfitnessweightlo9329]

Great to watch. Nice review.

[@TrailSage]

Thank you for the kind words Duncan!

[@GillFisherRunningMySpace]

What a smart experiment with the guitar showing how sound conduction works! I bought them so I can hear if a deer or other animal is coming up from behind me. I've had unsafe moments in the woods with traditional earphones and I love these! Although, I wish they had a textured pad on the button so I could feel it better, it's sometimes fidgety to find. Awesome thorough review Sage!

[@TrailSage]

OMG what a great suggestion Gill. I hope Shokz sees this and reads your comment. A textured button would be SOOOOOOOOO helpful!!!

[@GillFisherRunningMySpace]

@@TrailSage yes, that would be cool if they saw this!!

[@RunSensible]

This is perfect timing. I was just looking at these. My son broke one of my Power Beat Pro's. This is fantastic. You dad is the best part of the video. I hope he was paid well. 🤣

[@TrailSage]

Right on Neil. I put a link to it in the description. I appreciate the support brotha!

[@TheDeterminedRunner]

I recently had the chance to test some Open Run's out & was really impressed with how they work, so much so that Jake's ordered me a pair for Christmas 🎅 I thought you were running with Scott Jurek for a split second at the end 🤣

[@TrailSage]

lol, that was my buddy Anthony, I'll let him know you said that. Thanks for watching Martin!

[@mtbville]

Awesome review and content buddy 🤘🔥 Very interesting product 👌 I've never heard of it 🤔😳

[@TrailSage]

It's great for solo mountain bike rides Ville. Thanks for watching.

[@OpenDoorYogaSLC]

OK I've heard about bone conduction products for awhile - whether it's headphones or even pillows to listen to white noise at night, but I've never known anyone who has tried them before! Thanks for your honest and helpful review, Sage!

[@TrailSage]

Thanks Michelle, I have really enjoyed using and testing these!

[@fabriquetoncorps4810]

WoW 👌top performance 👊greetings from France 🇫🇷

[@TrailSage]

Thank you so much Fabrique!

[@user-yd4nk1es6n]

Thank you for your great video! I once had an Openrun Pro that worked well both at home and during running. But its waterproof grade limits its usage scenarios. So later, I switched to Wissonly Hi Runner, which has IPX8 waterproof, making it suitable for many scenarios, such as running, swimming, boating, surfing, cycling, fitness, etc. It's very practical.

[@TrailSage]

Right on, thanks for the feedback Jack. Glad the Hi Runner is working out better for you.

[@sadjesse]

Great review, thank you

[@TrailSage]

Thank you for commenting and watching!

[@malcolmhightower9407]

Such a helpful review

[@TrailSage]

Thank you so much Malcolm!

[@movemorenowjames]

Good experiment and nice choice of song! Still use my headset - forget the exact model - But have lasted well.. years. Top review as always buddy.

[@TrailSage]

That's awesome James. Are you able to pair it with your new Apple watch? Because that would be a sweet setup.

[@movemorenowjames]

@@TrailSage definitely! The AWU pairs really quickly with them and my beats 🎧

[@jdadventures9668]

Nice review, I've been looking for a good set of head phones that won't slip while running or biking, since I sweat a lot. This looks like the perfect fit. Now to decide on size.

[@TrailSage]

Thanks JD. I think you will be pleased with the headphones. I'm still using mine to this day and I love them.

[@FoCoFlowShow]

My wife just got a pair of these and loves them! Great vid 💪💪💪

[@TrailSage]

Right on! Thanks for watching Forrest.

[@iamyourfather3643]

I've been looking for these for years!!! Thank you!!!

[@TrailSage]

Sweet. You're welcome Mr Vader ;)

[@davidcasbe2857]

Very nice review congratulations

[@TrailSage]

Thank you so much David. I'm glad you enjoyed it

[@DaniellaJoyFitness]

You run in the winter? I think these headphones would be every useful for anyone in a situation where they need to hear the outside world but at the same time want to jam out! Always love your reviews well done ❤

[@TrailSage]

Absolutely Daniella. I run and ride all year outside no matter the conditions. Thank you for the kind words. I love making these reviews and your love and support means everything!

[@TheTexaneight]

Great video brother...very comprehensive. Ive had mine for about 4 years and it sounds like the speakers have become unglued. I hear rattling on both sides on the headphones. Thanks for the great video.

[@TrailSage]

Thanks for the feedback Bobby. If mine lasts as long as yours I will be a happy camper. Thank you for the kind words as well.

[@PhillyMTB]

My only experience with bone conduction tech was my kids toothbrushes that played Lady Gaga while they brushed their teeth 😂😂. Even that was pretty cool though lol

[@TrailSage]

I would definitely use these over the toothbrushes when mountain biking Sam 🤣 Thanks for watching

[@fjfjrfjfjr]

Thank you Sir! 😀

[@TrailSage]

No worries. Thanks for leaving a comment.

[@BIIIKES]

These look pretty interesting (trying to get my trail running legs from 13 years ago back). Do they rub your ears or back of your neck during longer efforts? Your videos are so good, dude. Truly.

[@TrailSage]

Thanks man, I appreciate the kind words. Regarding your concerns, no they don't rub on the back of the ears or neck. They are so comfy and work really well.

[@oldbagincardi]

Just a small thing but....when I opened mine I thought they didn't work but in fact they just had no battery....I am now charging them and thanks for letting me know that that would take an hour and a half! There was nothing in the instructions saying "charge before use" which would have been helpful and saved me going demented trying to get a reaction form the buttons....so "charge before use" !!

[@TrailSage]

Thank you for the helpful feedback. Hope you enjoy them once they are fully charged ;)

[@RunRideHikeThrive]

Ya no thanks on phone in pocket, Quadlock cases are a must with the Running Arm Band. 👍 Great review.. Thanks.

[@TrailSage]

Right on Cesar! Thanks for watching

[@Shevock]

Good review.

[@TrailSage]

Thank you Dan! Do you listen to music while you workout?

[@Shevock]

Only on speed days.

[@shibinboby1171]

Best review..

[@TrailSage]

Wow, thanks Shibin!

[@JeLanadventure]

Thats very nice.

[@TrailSage]

Thank you JeLan. Hope you are well.

[@tobiasschneider8075]

Thank you for your review! Really appreciate your opinion :) Just one question: How do they work while wearing a buff or an other headband? I literally never run without one and found in-ear-headphones very uncomfortable... Do you think the bone conuction ones would be a better option for me? Can you wear them over a buff? Greetings from Austria!

[@TrailSage]

Hey Tobias. I don't wear headbands but I do occasionally wear a buff when it gets cold and I have had no issue with it. I would not recommend wearing the headphones over the buff though

[@TrailTales]

Great job on the review as always Sage... But that goes without saying... ::D Not a big fan of music out on the bike myself, but this is a great compromise if you're wanting to do it (And deffo better than those Tards who ride around blasting obnoxious tunes through a Bluetooth speaker)... Losing the "ambient noise" around you makes being out in the world so much more dangerous... It's amazing how much we rely on our hearing to not end up dead... Also... Great job on the Led Zepplin there mate.

[@TrailSage]

OMG those guys with the speakers on the trails drive me nuts!!!! I only use these when I am riding or running solo. I actually setup different playlists depending on the type of workout that I am doing. I match the beats of the songs to the cadence which is very helpful.

[@TrailTales]

@@TrailSage For sure... I run music when I'm on the trainer... One can't but help match the cadence to the beat... #ProTip: Don't set your whole play list up with Slayer tunes... Or you'll tear your own legs off...

[@TrailSage]

@@TrailTales lol!!!!

[@0bzen22]

Got me some OpenRun Pros, as I spend most of the day with some form of headset on, and it's no good for the ears. I've tested the OpenMove, which are the cheaper option, the technology is really interesting. It's more like having a portable stereo close by, like a JBL Go, than wearing headphones. the OpenRun Pros will be a bit more hi-fi (JBL Flip hopefully?), but really, it's for casual listening, or if you listen to radio, podcasts, audiobooks a lot, and want to not be shut off from the environment. For noisy environments, you can use earplugs as well. So... now I can larp as Lobot and (hopefully) also keep my ears in good order. Pros or non-pros, I would take the non-pros if I was doing physical activities in the elements a lot.

[@TrailSage]

Right on, thanks for the feedback Obzen.

[@MathiasLeth]

Hi. Your red T-shirt that says here to run - where did you get it?

[@TrailSage]

Hey Mathias. I custom designed it. You can find it here: trailsage.myspreadshop.com/here+to+run

[@haikuboxer]

Hi great video. I just bought them and there was a “sports headband” in the kit. Is this just something to wear over it and secure it more? Can’t figure that part out. Thanks.

[@TrailSage]

Thank you. Yeah, I received the same thing with mine. I think it's just a novelty piece and not meant to secure it more.

[@timbrandt7211]

I bought these on a whim at the airport, not for use on the plane, but because I work outdoors and listen to podcast all day all week. I found they are fantastic for voices and podcasts, but absolutely horrible for music. For whatever reason they just do not have any volume or fidelity with music, so I’m going to get another pair of the Bose Soundsport for that. Good video.

[@TrailSage]

I have never tried the Bose Soundsport, but since they go in your ear I suppose the sound quality will be superior. I'm glad the OpenRun is working for the podcast, but I understand they aren't optimal for your needs when it comes to music quality. Thanks for the feedback Tim.

[@sierranuestra]

Great review!! For MTB its better the mini or normal size, wearing a medium helmet? Thanks!!

[@TrailSage]

Thanks Juan. I prefer the Mini, but you should measure your head and select the appropriate size.

[@sierranuestra]

@@TrailSage Im just in the middle... go for the standard or mini size?

[@TrailSage]

@@sierranuestraThen I would try the Mini. You can always return it if it doesn't fit .

[@Chris-dw3xl]

Quick question what if you where hearing aids is the sound loud enough plus are there tight enough to grip your side of your ears at the moment I’ve been using ear buds plus soundcore open buds and there feel like there falling off

[@TrailSage]

Hey Chris. Thanks for the questions. Unfortunately I have no experience with hearing aids so I can not offer any guidance there. They do preform exceptionally well so my guess would be yes, but who knows. Regarding the fit and comfort, I have not had any issues with mine, but I'm also using the mini, which is a little more snug. It's been two years and I'm still loving them. Sorry I could not be more helpful.

[@JLH0714]

My problem is Apple compatibility. I have an Apple Watch and I’ve read some other reviews that you have to pair it every time you use it. It also doesn’t hand off apparently so if I get a call I won’t be able to answer the call with these. It’s apples fault I’m sure but I need those features

[@TrailSage]

Thanks for the feedback Joe. Unfortunately I don't have an Apple watch so I can not confirm or deny those issues. However I do have an iPhone and I have had no issues pairing and answering calls. Sorry I could not be more helpful. Sage

[@KirstenQuickFit]

Bloopers are the BEST!!! Haha!!!

[@TrailSage]

Thanks Kirsten!

[@chasestephens3488]

What kinda shorts was those the gray ones with the zipper in the back

[@TrailSage]

Hey Chase, they are the NB Impact shorts. I did a review on them here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6fTp2yLeJprrLc

[@PappaMike-vc1qv]

Good Review, I agree that the microphone quality is lacking. On a windy day or while cycling the wind and noise cancellation makes phone calls terrible. The old titaniums were better IMHO

[@TrailSage]

Thanks for the feedback Mike. Even with the microphone quality I think these are still one of the best options on the market.

[@marianmiller2802]

According to the specs of many runners, I should be wearing a mini, but I don't. I wear a regular Shokz openrun pro. They work well for me. I wear my sunglasses and a health mask doing the day. I can wear these without interference.

[@TrailSage]

Right on, thanks for the feedback Marian. Good to know the regular size works well for you. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@Allen-L-Canada]

Is bone conduction headphones prevent any potential damages to the ears/hearing, compared to the regular headphones?

[@TrailSage]

Hey Allen, they might be marginally better, but they can still get pretty loud. I would not buy these for that purpose

[@1209Gazza]

I've had 2 pairs of the brand. The first failed on the left side and we're replaced under warranty. The second have developed a rattle..... AND bass vibration on the left side and I'm looking to replace them. I can't bring myself to spend any more on this label. Shame. When they work as designed they're awesome. The fact that there's a rattle repair on KZbin means I'm not the only one. I only walk the dog with them and treat them well.

[@TrailSage]

Ugh that sucks Sparky. I have had rattle issues with my old Sport Titaniums after about a year, but so far these have not developed them. Although, I am also not expecting them to last forever. I'm sorry to hear you had such a bad experience, and thank you for sharing your story.

[@GoProGoalieUzi]

Amazing review!! Seems to be a solid unit one that I will definitely look into. Good work buddy, and keep exercising ❤ I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2018 at age 40. I am 45 now and it’s a battle every single day..Exercising is very important ❤ see you on the next one 🇨🇦🫶🏽

[@TrailSage]

You won't regret it Uzi, it is very well made and comfortable to wear. As for Parkinson's, I agree, staying active and eating well is some of the best things you can do. Stay strong brotha!

[@GoProGoalieUzi]

@@TrailSage thank you bro, I will try my best ❤️❤️🤙🏽

[@jat3601]

That guy at 6:05 is the man!

[@TrailSage]

He's the best!!!

[@josephdeleon8827]

@TrailSage, can Shokz be synced to an iPod?

[@TrailSage]

Hey Joseph, that's a great question. Unfortunately I don't own an iPod so I can't answer that one for you. However I'm sure the folks at Shokz could help you with that. Try reaching out to their customer service. Sorry I couldn't be more helpful. Sage

[@RyanTyler1337]

I’m tempted to get the mini as I am not fond of the overhang at the back with the standard. I measured and am 24 cm from ear to ear approx; which says I should get standard; did you measure before purchasing? Thanks

[@TrailSage]

Hey Ryan, I did measure and I was on the cusp, but I went with the mini anyway. It fits great and still has a little play in the back. Hope that helps.

[@RyanTyler1337]

@@TrailSage thank you! I think I’m the same; I’ve noticed people wear them pointed down a little so I think I’m going to be fine. Appreciate the quick reply will follow your channel!

[@TrailSage]

@@RyanTyler1337 Right on. If you pull the trigger let me know how they fit. Good luck Ryan

[@jordyvanbuel]

How does the fit feel when you’re wearing glasses (fulltime)? No irritation on or around the ear then?

[@TrailSage]

I don't wear glasses fulltime Jordy, but when I wear sunglasses I have had no issues. Hope that helps. Sage

[@jordyvanbuel]

@@TrailSage thank you, will try these!

[@ParaisoSensorial]

New friend here. Wonderful video. You have a beautiful channel. Have a good weekend. 🔔💚44

[@TrailSage]

Thank you for watching!

[@Canuck352004]

Have you tried to fast forward a video while using the headphone? Mine doesn't work and I just got them. Thanks

[@TrailSage]

Hey Fort, no I have not. I was not aware that you could do that with video. I was able to advance and go back tracks on my music playlist with no issues.

[@Canuck352004]

@@TrailSage Thanks.I will contact their customer support myself.

[@kynomatix]

You can use a smart watch if you don't like your phone banging your leg, I get it.

[@TrailSage]

Good call. Unfortunately I don't have a smart watch that will play music, but hopefully others will see this feedback. Thanks.

[@chrisgarland9381]

👌

[@TrailSage]

Thanks Chris!

[@graemestewart4796]

Why did you choose the mini over the regular size?

[@TrailSage]

I measured my head and the mini seemed like a better fit.

[@Ms410410]

Invest in a runner's belt for your phone. They're awesome

[@TrailSage]

I have one by Nathan and it's great. Thanks for the suggestion though.

[@rustic35]

Your voice level was the same for each test. 🤣 You're meant to speak louder each time. 😂

[@TrailSage]

I think that is the issue with this type of mic. The compressor makes the levels the same and what you end up with is distortion. Sorry if that was confusing.

[@RobertBeckk]

Reply to this comment if you habitually look up reviews after you already bought something,

[@TrailSage]

Ha! Yes, I totally do that Robert. Especially to see if the thing I bought matches up with what people were saying and their experiences.

[@ridgidcarloportajada4674]

🙌

[@TrailSage]

@@ridgidcarloportajada4674 Thx Carlo

[@emiliotaylor4957]

𝖕𝖗𝖔𝖒𝖔𝖘𝖒

[@TrailSage]

I am not sure what that means, but I hope you enjoyed the video.