Bone conduction headphones

[warthog101]

I haven't previously considered using headphones but now thinking about it for a bit of music or talking books. I go for 3-4 hr rides on quiet roads just tapping along and always have lights and a radar.
I don't wish to put anymore faith in our driving public however so am thinking of bone conduction head phones that leave the ear canal open.
Will I still hear cars and the garmin beep from the varia as they approach?
Any recommendations that aren't too exxy?

https://www.jbhifi.com.au/collections/h ... headphones

[nickf]

I have been using shokz for a number of years now. On longer solo training rides it's great to have some low volume music going. I also use a radar and the volume I keep them at I can hear everything going on around me.

[warthog101]

Thanks

[whyamihere]

My experience is similar. I can still hear everything around me using Shokz. I have an older model which appears to be equivalent to the OpenRun Pro, and also had the equivalent of the cheaper OpenMove. The more expensive OpenRun is noticeably better - More comfortable and smaller. The sound quality obviously isn't as good as normal headphones, but I find it acceptable.

[warthog101]

I like your forum name
Good you can still hear the traffic.

[kytyree]

I have an older model, going back to when they were called Aftershokz. IIRC it took me a little bit to get used to them, as if maybe the vibration was uncomfortable at first, but they don't bother me anymore. I use them whenever I want to be able to hear.

Ordered a pair of the newer models, one of my buddies says they have gotten better as they've updated. I was glad to see the Openrun 2 model has usb-c charging instead of the proprietary plug they had for awhile. I don't like having to remember to carry specific charging cables any more than is necessary.

[C36]

A question for users, I never tested them outside the display models in the shops and something confuses me… I hear as well when they are touching the bones than when they are not (if i lift them by few mm). That gives me the impression they are « just » like small external speakers directing the sound to the ears.

Is that something normal or am I doing something wrong?

[kytyree]

I did get to try out the Openrun 2 model today, definitely more comfortable than my older Trekz Titanium. They're smaller and more flexible around my ear and put less pressure on my head. Sound seemed fine, but I was just on the trainer not out and about.