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Finding the best open ear headphones for swimming requires matching your specific training needs to verified specifications. We compared 13 models based strictly on the data published on their listings. Our top pick is the SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Bone Conduction, which leads due to its 32GB internal storage for phone-free music. This guide helps you decide which model fits your routine by comparing waterproof ratings, connectivity, and design.

Choose IP68 and MP3 storage

You need an IP68 rating for full submersion. Most top picks include 32GB of internal storage for offline music. This lets you swim without a phone. The SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro offers this plus Bluetooth for land use. The Tayogo T6+W23 uses a transmitter for live streaming. Pick the storage model for simplicity or the transmitter combo for app access.

#ProductBest forPrice
1SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Bone Conduction Best overallswimmers needing phone-free music and awareness
2SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Waterproof Open-Ear Headphones Best premiumswimmers needing offline MP3 playback
3Tayogo T6+W23 Swim Combo Also greatLive underwater streaming via transmitter
4NANK Runner Diver2 Pro Open-Ear Headphones Best greySwimmers needing IP68 waterproofing and 32GB storage
5Tayogo W22 Bone Conduction Swim Set Best budgetswimmers who want direct phone streaming
6SUUNTO Aqua Swimming Bone Conduction Also greatSwimmers wanting motion tracking and waterproof MP3 playback
7Tayogo T6+W18 Swim Music Combo Also greatstreaming music underwater without downloads
8Hostena IP68 Bone Conduction Swimming Headphones Also greatlap swimmers needing underwater music
9MARLALL X26 Bone Conduction Swim Headphones Also greatswimmers needing offline MP3 playback
10Sanag IPX8 Bone Conduction Headphones Best blueSwimmers needing IP68 protection and 32GB storage
11Mojawa Run Plus New Bone Conduction Best work callsSwimmers needing land and water versatility
12Essonio Bone Conduction Swimming Headphones Best androidAndroid swimmers needing 32GB storage
13PSIER S19 Bone Conduction Headphones Also greatlap swimmers needing waterproof MP3 playback

The best fit for you

  • You need phone-free music and situational awareness – SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Bone Conduction – The SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro offers 32GB storage and an IP68 rating for standalone swimming use.
  • You want direct phone streaming without downloads – Tayogo W22 Bone Conduction Swim Set – The Tayogo W22 set connects via Bluetooth to stream directly from your phone underwater.
  • You need live underwater streaming via transmitter – Tayogo T6+W23 Swim Combo – The Tayogo T6+W23 combo includes a transmitter for stable live streaming without file management.
  • You want motion tracking and waterproof MP3 playback – SUUNTO Aqua Swimming Bone Conduction – The SUUNTO Aqua provides motion tracking, IP68 waterproofing, and an included power bank for extended use.
1Best overall
SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Bone Conduction

SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Bone Conduction

Best for: swimmers needing phone-free music and awareness

Use
Running, Workouts, Swimming
Conduction Type
Bone conduction
IP Rating
IP68
Battery Life
9 hours
Internal Storage
32 GB
Connection
Wireless

The SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro combines bone conduction technology with IP68 waterproofing for swimming. It features 32GB of internal storage for up to 8,000 songs and offers 9 hours of battery life. The open-ear design keeps you aware of your surroundings. It includes Bluetooth streaming and app controls for customization. This model suits swimmers who want secure fit and phone-free music playback in the pool.

Pros
  • IP68 waterproof rating allows submersion up to two meters deep
  • 32GB internal storage holds up to 8,000 songs
  • 9 hours of continuous battery life
  • Open-ear bone conduction design for situational awareness
  • Quick charge provides 3 hours of playback in 10 minutes
Cons
  • Bluetooth mode does not work underwater due to signal disruption
  • Lightweight build at 0.96 ounces may feel less substantial than heavier models
Good fit if
  • You want to listen to music without carrying a phone while swimming
  • You need a secure fit that stays in place with swim caps
  • You prefer open-ear design to hear your surroundings
Skip if
  • You require Bluetooth audio transmission while submerged
  • You need more than 9 hours of battery life per charge
  • You prefer in-ear earbuds over bone conduction headsets

Verdict: SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Open-Ear delivers reliable underwater performance with its IP68 rating and 32GB storage, making it ideal for swimmers who prioritize phone-free music and situational awareness.

2Best premium
SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Waterproof Open-Ear Headphones

SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Waterproof Open-Ear Headphones

Best for: swimmers needing offline MP3 playback

Use
Swimming
IP Rating
IP68
Battery Life
9 hours
Internal Storage
32 GB
Weight
0.96 ounces
Connection
Wireless

The SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro is an open-ear bone conduction headphone built for swimming. It features IP68 waterproofing, allowing submersion up to two meters for two hours. You can store 32GB of music for offline playback, supporting up to 8,000 songs. It offers 9 hours of battery life and includes a quick charge feature. The lightweight design fits comfortably under swim caps and goggles.

Pros
  • IP68 waterproof rating for deep submersion
  • 32GB internal storage for 8,000 songs
  • 9 hours of continuous battery life
  • Open-ear design for situational awareness
  • Quick charge provides 3 hours of playback
Cons
  • Bluetooth connectivity does not work underwater
  • Battery life is lower than some competitors with larger capacities
  • Weight is 0.96 ounces, which is standard but not the lightest option
Good fit if
  • You need reliable MP3 playback without a phone
  • You want to stay aware of your surroundings while swimming
  • You require a device that fits under swim caps
Skip if
  • You need to stream music directly from your phone while underwater
  • You prefer closed-ear isolation for noisy environments
  • You want the absolute lightest possible bone conduction headphones

Verdict: SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Swimming MP3 is a solid choice for swimmers who prioritize waterproof durability and offline music storage over wireless streaming capabilities during use.

3Also great
Tayogo T6+W23 Swim Combo

Tayogo T6+W23 Swim Combo

Best for: Live underwater streaming via transmitter

Use
Smartphones, Swimming
Form Factor
Neckband
Conduction Type
Bone conduction
Features
Spotify
Color
Black
Dimensions
2.2 × 0.8 × 4.4 inches

This combo pairs the W23 bone conduction earbuds with the T6 transmitter. You stream audio from your phone via FM signal underwater, bypassing standard Bluetooth limits. The system supports live streaming from apps like Spotify and Audible without needing file transfers. Weighing 1.59 ounces, it offers a secure fit under swim caps. It is designed for serious aquatic training where stable underwater audio is required.

Pros
  • Streams live audio from phones via FM transmitter
  • Compatible with Spotify and Audible
  • Weighs 1.59 ounces
  • Bone conduction design for secure fit
Cons
  • Requires separate T6 transmitter for underwater use
  • Heavier than single-unit MP3 headphones
Good fit if
  • You want to stream music without downloading files
  • You need a secure fit for lap swimming
  • You prefer bone conduction technology
Skip if
  • You want an all-in-one device without extra gear
  • You prefer built-in MP3 storage for offline use
  • You want the lightest possible option

Verdict: Tayogo T6+W23 Swim Combo delivers stable underwater streaming for swimmers who dislike file management. It suits those prioritizing live app access over standalone convenience.

4Best grey
NANK Runner Diver2 Pro Open-Ear Headphones

NANK Runner Diver2 Pro Open-Ear Headphones

Best for: Swimmers needing IP68 waterproofing and 32GB storage

Use
Running, Workouts, Swimming
Form Factor
Ear hook
Conduction Type
Bone conduction
IP Rating
IP69
Battery Life
10 hours
Internal Storage
32GB

The NANK Runner Diver2 Pro is a bone conduction headphone in grey, rated IP68 waterproof for swimming. It includes 32GB of internal storage for phone-free music playback and supports Bluetooth 5.4 for wireless connection. The device weighs 1.12 ounces and offers up to 10 hours of battery life. You can adjust the ear hooks for a secure fit, making it suitable for lap training and open water sessions.

Pros
  • IP68 waterproof rating for underwater use
  • 32GB internal MP3 storage
  • Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity
  • 10 hours of playtime
  • Adjustable 35° ear hooks
Cons
  • IP68 rating is lower than the IP69 or IPX8 ratings found on other models
  • 1.12 ounces is heavier than lighter bone conduction options
  • 10 hours of battery life is less than the 32GB models with longer endurance
Good fit if
  • You need IP68 waterproof protection for swimming
  • You want 32GB of built-in music storage
  • You prefer a grey color option
Skip if
  • You require IP69 waterproofing
  • You need a lighter device under 1 ounce
  • You want more than 10 hours of battery life

Verdict: NANK Runner Diver2 Pro Grey fits swimmers who prioritize IP68 waterproofing and 32GB of storage over the highest possible water resistance rating or lighter weight.

5Best budget
Tayogo W22 Bone Conduction Swim Set

Tayogo W22 Bone Conduction Swim Set

Best for: swimmers who want direct phone streaming

Use
Swimming
Conduction Type
Bone conduction
IP Rating
IP68
Battery Life
Up to 15 hours (8 hours receiving)
Features
MP3 Player, Spotify
Dimensions
7.3 × 5.9 × 2.7 inches

This Tayogo set pairs the W22 bone conduction headphones with a T6 transmitter for swimming. The headphones carry an IP68 waterproof rating, allowing full submersion. The transmitter broadcasts a signal up to 150 meters and 2 meters underwater across 16 channels. You get 15 hours of playback in Bluetooth mode and 8 hours in receiving mode. The transmitter itself lasts 8 hours. This combo lets you stream music directly to your ears while swimming without downloading files.

Pros
  • IP68 waterproof rating for the W22 headphones
  • 150-meter working range for the T6 transmitter
  • 16 selectable channels to avoid signal interference
  • 15-hour battery life for the headphones in Bluetooth mode
  • Digital display with touch controls on the transmitter
Cons
  • 8-hour battery life for the transmitter is shorter than the 15-hour headphone battery
  • 1.6-ounce weight for the headphones is slightly heavier than many single-unit swim players
  • Requires carrying a separate transmitter unit rather than an all-in-one MP3 player
Good fit if
  • You want to stream music from your phone without downloading files
  • You need a long-range signal for large pools or open water
  • You prefer a separate transmitter for easier charging management
Skip if
  • You want a single all-in-one device without extra gear
  • You need a transmitter battery life exceeding 8 hours
  • You prefer a lighter weight under 1.6 ounces

Verdict: Tayogo W22 Bone Conduction Swim Set offers a robust streaming solution for swimmers who want direct phone connectivity. It suits you if you prioritize range and streaming convenience over a compact, single-unit design.

6Also great
SUUNTO Aqua Swimming Bone Conduction

SUUNTO Aqua Swimming Bone Conduction

Best for: Swimmers wanting motion tracking and waterproof MP3 playback

Use
Swimming
Conduction Type
Bone conduction
IP Rating
IP68
Battery Life
10 hours (up to 30 hours)
Internal Storage
32 GB
Bluetooth Version
5.3

The SUUNTO Aqua is an open-ear bone conduction headphone built for swimming. It features IP68 waterproofing for 5-meter depth diving and includes 32GB of internal MP3 storage. The titanium and silicone build keeps the weight at just 2.12 ounces. You get 30 hours of total playtime with the included power bank. It also tracks swim postures and metrics via the Suunto app.

Pros
  • IP68 waterproof rating supports 5-meter depth diving
  • 32GB internal storage for offline MP3 playback
  • 30 hours total playtime with included power bank
  • Head movement control for hands-free operation
  • Swim posture and metric tracking via app
Cons
  • Smaller 140mAh battery capacity compared to 32GB models
  • Requires separate power bank for maximum 30-hour runtime
  • App-dependent motion analysis requires smartphone pairing
Good fit if
  • You want to track swim metrics like glide time
  • You prefer open-ear bone conduction for situational awareness
  • You need waterproof headphones for pool or open water
Skip if
  • You need a single unit without extra accessories
  • You prefer in-ear sealed audio isolation
  • You want automatic motion tracking without an app

Verdict: SUUNTO Aqua Bone Conduction Swim Headphones fit swimmers who want detailed motion tracking and reliable waterproofing. The included power bank extends battery life, though you must carry it for full use.

7Also great
Tayogo T6+W18 Swim Music Combo

Tayogo T6+W18 Swim Music Combo

Best for: streaming music underwater without downloads

Use
Swimming
Form Factor
In-ear
IP Rating
IPX8
Battery Life
Up to 10 hours
Bluetooth Version
5.4
Connection
Wireless

This set includes the W18 in-ear headphones and the T6 Bluetooth transmitter for swimming. The transmitter streams audio from apps like Spotify and Audible directly to the headset. It offers a 150-meter range on land and stable signal up to 1 meter underwater. The W18 receiver features Bluetooth 5.4 and FM radio for dry-land use. Both units are IPX8 waterproof and provide 10 hours of playback.

Pros
  • IPX8 waterproof rating for submersion up to 3 meters
  • 150-meter wireless range on land
  • 10-hour continuous battery life
  • Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity for dry-land use
  • FM radio capability in the W18 receiver
Cons
  • Heavier build at 6.4 ounces compared to lighter bone conduction models
  • Shallower waterproof depth rating of 3 meters versus 10 meters on other IP68 options
  • Limited underwater signal stability restricted to 1 meter depth
Good fit if
  • You want to stream music from Spotify or Audible without downloading files
  • You need a device for both swimming and dry-land activities like running
  • You prefer an in-ear design that provides deeper bass than bone conduction
Skip if
  • You require a single integrated unit without a separate transmitter
  • You need deeper underwater signal stability beyond 1 meter
  • You prefer a lighter device under 6.4 ounces

Verdict: Tayogo T6+W18 Swim Music Combo suits swimmers who want to stream music directly from their phone without downloading files. It works well for athletes who also need Bluetooth audio for dry-land workouts.

8Also great
Hostena IP68 Bone Conduction Swimming Headphones

Hostena IP68 Bone Conduction Swimming Headphones

Best for: lap swimmers needing underwater music

Use
Swimming
Form Factor
Neck-hanging
Conduction Type
Bone conduction
IP Rating
IP68
Internal Storage
32GB
Bluetooth Version
6.0

The Hostena open-ear bone conduction headphone is built for lap swimming and water sports. It features IP68 waterproofing and 32GB of local storage for over 8000 songs. You can use Bluetooth 6.0 for land activities like running, but must switch to MP3 mode underwater. The flexible silicone frame provides a comfortable fit that works with swim goggles.

Pros
  • IP68 waterproof rating for underwater use
  • 32GB internal storage holds over 8000 songs
  • Bone conduction design keeps ears open
  • Bluetooth 6.0 for land use
  • Flexible silicone frame fits swim goggles
Cons
  • Bluetooth does not work underwater
  • Fixed black color option only
Good fit if
  • You need dedicated headphones for lap swimming
  • You want to listen to music without a phone in the water
  • You require open-ear awareness of pool surroundings
Skip if
  • You need Bluetooth connectivity while submerged
  • You prefer closed-ear earbuds for isolation
  • You want multiple color choices

Verdict: Hostena IP68 Bone Conduction MP3 is a solid option for swimmers who need reliable underwater music storage. It suits athletes who train in pools and want to keep their ears open for safety.

9Also great
MARLALL X26 Bone Conduction Swim Headphones

MARLALL X26 Bone Conduction Swim Headphones

Best for: swimmers needing offline MP3 playback

Use
Running, Workouts, Swimming
Form Factor
Ear hook
Conduction Type
Bone conduction
IP Rating
IP68, IPX8
Battery Life
7 hours
Internal Storage
32 GB

The MARLALL X26 is an open-ear bone conduction headphone built for swimming. It features IP68 waterproofing and 32GB of internal memory for MP3 playback. Bluetooth 6.0 connects when you are out of the water. The unit weighs 0.8 ounces and uses a secure ear-hook design. It suits swimmers who need reliable underwater music without carrying a phone.

Pros
  • IP68 waterproof rating for swimming and snorkeling
  • 32GB internal storage for offline MP3 playback
  • Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity for land use
  • Lightweight 0.8-ounce build with soft silicone
Cons
  • 7-hour maximum battery life is shorter than some competitors
  • 0.8-ounce weight is slightly heavier than basic swim buds
  • MP3 mode only underwater; Bluetooth does not work submerged
Good fit if
  • You want dedicated underwater music without a phone
  • You need secure fit during intense swimming laps
  • You prefer open-ear awareness of your surroundings
Skip if
  • You require Bluetooth streaming while underwater
  • You need battery life longer than 7 hours
  • You prefer traditional in-ear earbud designs

Verdict: MARLALL X26 Bone Conduction Swim Headphones deliver solid IP68 protection and ample 32GB storage for swimmers who want to leave their phones behind. It is a practical choice for dedicated lap swimmers who value secure fit and underwater music independence.

10Best blue
Sanag IPX8 Bone Conduction Headphones

Sanag IPX8 Bone Conduction Headphones

Best for: Swimmers needing IP68 protection and 32GB storage

Use
Running, Workouts, Swimming
Conduction Type
Bone conduction
IP Rating
IPX8
Battery Life
8 hours
Internal Storage
32 GB
Bluetooth Version
6.0

The Sanag B33 in Blue uses bone conduction to deliver audio while keeping your ears open. It features an IP68 waterproof rating for submersion up to 2 meters. You get 32GB of built-in memory for offline playback and Bluetooth 6.0 for wireless connection. The device offers 8 hours of playtime on a single charge. This design suits swimmers who need reliable underwater performance and situational awareness.

Pros
  • IP68 waterproof rating allows swimming up to 2 meters deep
  • 32GB internal memory stores music for phone-free use
  • Bluetooth 6.0 chip enables quick pairing and 50ft range
  • 8 hours of continuous playback per charge
  • Bone conduction design keeps ears open to surroundings
Cons
  • Heavier at 4.8 ounces compared to many lighter swim headphones
  • 8 hours of battery life is lower than some competitors with longer durations
  • Bluetooth signals do not transmit underwater, requiring MP3 mode for swimming
Good fit if
  • You need a waterproof rating suitable for pool or ocean swimming
  • You want 32GB of storage to avoid carrying a phone
  • You prefer bone conduction to stay aware of your environment
Skip if
  • You require Bluetooth audio transmission while submerged
  • You prioritize the lightest possible weight for your ears
  • You need more than 8 hours of continuous battery life

Verdict: Sanag B33 Blue IP68 Bone Conduction provides solid IP68 protection and 32GB storage for swimmers who value awareness. It fits users who do not mind a 4.8-ounce weight and switching to MP3 mode underwater.

11Best work calls
Mojawa Run Plus New Bone Conduction

Mojawa Run Plus New Bone Conduction

Best for: Swimmers needing land and water versatility

Use
Work Calls, Running, Workouts, Swimming
Conduction Type
Bone conduction
IP Rating
IP68
Battery Life
8 hours
Internal Storage
32 GB
Connection
Wireless

The Mojawa Run Plus New is an IP68 waterproof bone conduction headset designed for swimming and running. It includes 32GB of internal storage for MP3 playback and supports Bluetooth for land use. The device weighs 1.15 ounces and features an ENC microphone for work calls. Its open-ear design maintains situational awareness while you swim or exercise. This model suits users needing versatile land-to-water audio performance.

Pros
  • IP68 waterproof rating for submersion up to 8.2 feet
  • 32GB internal storage for phone-free music playback
  • ENC microphone supports clear work calls
  • Magnetic fast charging provides 80 minutes of playtime in 5 minutes
Cons
  • Bluetooth connectivity is unavailable while underwater
  • Weighs 1.15 ounces, which is heavier than some lighter competitors
Good fit if
  • You need a single device for both pool swimming and land running
  • You require a microphone for taking work calls during workouts
  • You prefer open-ear designs that preserve situational awareness
Skip if
  • You need Bluetooth audio to function while submerged
  • You prefer a lighter device under 1 ounce
  • You want a model with fewer than 32GB of storage

Verdict: Mojawa Run Plus New Bone Conduction offers a practical blend of IP68 waterproofing and 32GB storage for swimmers who also run. It is a solid choice for users who value the versatility of land and water use with call capabilities.

12Best android
Essonio Bone Conduction Swimming Headphones

Essonio Bone Conduction Swimming Headphones

Best for: Android swimmers needing 32GB storage

Use
Smartphones, Running, Workouts, Swimming
Form Factor
Ear hooks
Conduction Type
Bone conduction
IP Rating
IP68
Battery Life
8 hours
Internal Storage
32GB

The Essonio IP68 Bone Conduction 32GB is an open-ear headphone built for swimming. It features IP68 waterproofing for submersion up to 10 meters. You get 32GB of internal storage for 8 hours of MP3 playback without a phone. The titanium alloy frame weighs only 1.06 ounces. It supports Bluetooth for Android and iOS devices. This model suits swimmers who need standalone music storage.

Pros
  • IP68 rating allows 10m submersion
  • 32GB internal MP3 storage
  • 1.06 ounce lightweight design
  • 8 hours MP3 playtime
  • Bluetooth connectivity for Android
Cons
  • 8 hours playtime is shorter than the 32GB storage capacity of competitors
  • 1.06 ounce weight is heavier than some lighter bone conduction options
  • Android listed as primary operating system
Good fit if
  • You need standalone MP3 playback for swimming
  • You prefer open-ear bone conduction for safety
  • You use Android smartphones
Skip if
  • You require more than 8 hours of battery life
  • You need a lighter weight than 1.06 ounces
  • You only use iOS devices without Android

Verdict: Essonio IP68 Bone Conduction 32GB fits swimmers who prioritize 10m submersion and 32GB storage. It is a solid choice for Android users needing reliable underwater music.

13Also great
PSIER S19 Bone Conduction Headphones

PSIER S19 Bone Conduction Headphones

Best for: lap swimmers needing waterproof MP3 playback

Use
Running, Workouts, Swimming
Conduction Type
Bone conduction, air conduction
IP Rating
IPX8
Battery Life
8 hours, 12 hours
Internal Storage
32 GB
Bluetooth Version
6.0

The PSIER S19 is a bone conduction headphone designed for swimming and workouts. It features IP68 waterproofing and 32GB of internal memory for MP3 playback. You get Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity and 12 hours of playtime. The open-ear design keeps you aware of your surroundings. This model suits swimmers who need reliable underwater music without external devices.

Pros
  • IP68 waterproof rating for swimming
  • 32GB internal MP3 memory
  • Bluetooth 6.0 wireless connection
  • 12-hour battery life
Cons
  • 12 hours of playtime is less than the 32GB storage found on several competitors
  • Standard bone conduction design offers less secure fit than dedicated diving headsets
Good fit if
  • You need waterproof headphones for lap swimming
  • You want built-in storage to leave your phone behind
  • You prefer an open-ear design for safety
Skip if
  • You require a secure fit for high-intensity running
  • You need more than 12 hours of battery life
  • You prefer closed-back noise isolation

Verdict: The PSIER S19 IP68 Bone Conduction provides essential swimming features with solid waterproofing and ample storage, making it a practical pick for casual lap swimmers who value convenience over specialized diving gear.

Specifications side by side

SpecSHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Bone ConductionSHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Waterproof Open-Ear HeadphonesTayogo T6+W23 Swim ComboNANK Runner Diver2 Pro Open-Ear HeadphonesTayogo W22 Bone Conduction Swim SetSUUNTO Aqua Swimming Bone ConductionTayogo T6+W18 Swim Music ComboHostena IP68 Bone Conduction Swimming HeadphonesMARLALL X26 Bone Conduction Swim HeadphonesSanag IPX8 Bone Conduction HeadphonesMojawa Run Plus New Bone ConductionEssonio Bone Conduction Swimming HeadphonesPSIER S19 Bone Conduction Headphones
Form Factor––NeckbandEar hook––In-earNeck-hangingEar hook––Ear hooks–
Conduction TypeBone conduction–Bone conductionBone conductionBone conductionBone conduction–Bone conductionBone conductionBone conductionBone conductionBone conductionBone conduction, air conduction
IP RatingIP68IP68–IP69IP68IP68IPX8IP68IP68, IPX8IPX8IP68IP68IPX8
Battery Life9 hours9 hours–10 hoursUp to 15 hours (8 hours receiving)10 hours (up to 30 hours)Up to 10 hours–7 hours8 hours8 hours8 hours8 hours, 12 hours
Internal Storage32 GB32 GB–32GB–32 GB–32GB32 GB32 GB32 GB32GB32 GB
Bluetooth Version–––5.4–5.35.46.06.06.0––6.0
Weight–0.96 ounces–1.12 ounces–35 g––24 g––32g–
ConnectionWirelessWireless–Wireless–WirelessWireless––WirelessWirelessWirelessWireless
FeaturesBluetooth, Microphone, MP3 PlayerBluetooth, MP3 PlayerSpotifyBluetooth, Microphone, Long Playtime, MP3 PlayerMP3 Player, SpotifyBluetooth, Microphone, Long Playtime, MP3 PlayerBluetooth, MP3 Player, SpotifyMP3 PlayerMP3 PlayerBluetooth, Long Playtime, MP3 PlayerBluetooth, Microphone, Long Playtime, MP3 PlayerBluetooth, Microphone, Long Playtime, MP3 PlayerBluetooth, Long Playtime, MP3 Player
UseRunning, Workouts, SwimmingSwimmingSmartphones, SwimmingRunning, Workouts, SwimmingSwimmingSwimmingSwimmingSwimmingRunning, Workouts, SwimmingRunning, Workouts, SwimmingWork Calls, Running, Workouts, SwimmingSmartphones, Running, Workouts, SwimmingRunning, Workouts, Swimming
ColorRedRedBlackGreySwimMusic Combo – BlackBlackSwimMusic Aquasound – YellowBlackDark BlueBlueBlackBlackBlack
Water ResistanceIP68 WaterproofIP68 Waterproof–IP68 Waterproof–IP68 Waterproof–IP68 WaterproofIP68 WaterproofIP68 WaterproofIP68 WaterproofIP68 WaterproofIP68 Waterproof
Bluetooth–––Bluetooth 5.4–––Bluetooth 6.0Bluetooth 6.0–––Bluetooth 6.0
DesignBone Conduction–Bone ConductionBone ConductionBone ConductionBone Conduction–Bone ConductionBone ConductionBone ConductionBone ConductionBone ConductionBone Conduction
Operating System–––––––––––Android–
Noise Reduction––––––––––ANR––
Dimensions4.88 × 3.94 × 1.78 inches4.88 × 3.94 × 1.78 inches2.2 × 0.8 × 4.4 inches–7.3 × 5.9 × 2.7 inches5.04 × 3.78 × 1.85 inches4.9 × 4.9 × 1.1 inches5 × 4 × 2 inches–––––
SizeStandardStandardOne SizeNormal(Adjustable)One SizeOne Size–––One SizeOne Size Fits All––
ModelOpenSwim ProSHOKZ S710T6-W23Runner Diver2 ProW22SS051023000t6+W18YLWX26X26B33 headphonesRun Plus NewB0FXQZDBFRS19

How to Choose Swimming Headphones

Check the waterproof rating

You need a device that survives full submersion. Look for an IP68 rating on the specification sheet. This ensures the unit handles deep water pressure without damage. Most picks in this guide, including the SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro and NANK Runner Diver2 Pro, feature this rating. Avoid models with lower ratings like IPX4, as they are only splash-proof. Verify the rating is listed under water resistance attributes before buying. This spec is the primary filter for any swimming gear.

Decide on storage capacity

You must choose between standalone playback or phone streaming. If you want to leave your phone on the pool deck, look for internal MP3 storage. The SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro and Tayogo T6+W23 offer 32GB of space for offline music files. This allows you to stream songs directly from the device without a connection. If you prefer carrying your phone, you can skip large storage models. Check the specs for GB or TB values to confirm internal memory exists.

Verify bone conduction design

Open-ear bone conduction is essential for safety and comfort while swimming. This design rests on your cheekbones and leaves your ear canal open. You can still hear your surroundings and other swimmers. All models listed here, such as the Tayogo W22 and SUUNTO Aqua, use this design. Avoid in-ear or over-ear styles, as they trap water and block environmental noise. Check the design attribute to ensure it explicitly states bone conduction. This feature is critical for situational awareness in the water.

Assess connection flexibility

Consider how you will connect to audio sources. Some models, like the Tayogo T6+W18, use a separate transmitter for live streaming. This keeps your phone dry while sending audio to the earbuds. Other models, like the Hostena IP68, rely solely on built-in Bluetooth for land use or direct pairing. Check the connection attribute for Bluetooth versions or transmitter compatibility. If you want to switch between pool and gym, ensure the model supports the modes you need most often.

Review weight and fit

Lightweight designs reduce fatigue during long swim sessions. The MARLALL X26 weighs just 0.8 ounces, making it nearly undetectable. Heavier units, like the Tayogo T6+W18 at 6.4 ounces, may feel bulky. Check the weight spec in ounces or grams. A secure fit prevents the device from shifting during turns. Look for adjustable bands or ergonomic curves in the specs. Comfort directly impacts your ability to focus on your lap count and stroke technique.

Frequently asked questions

Can I stream Spotify directly while swimming?

Yes, if you use a combo system. The Tayogo T6+W23 Swim Combo includes a transmitter for live underwater streaming. This lets you access Spotify without downloading files. Other models like the Tayogo W22 also support direct phone streaming via Bluetooth for this specific use case.

Do I need to bring my phone to the pool?

Not if you choose a model with internal storage. Most top picks feature 32GB of MP3 storage. This allows you to load music beforehand and swim phone-free. The SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro and NANK Runner Diver2 Pro both offer this standalone capability for uninterrupted laps.

What is the lightest option available?

The MARLALL X26 is the lightest at 0.8 ounces. It offers IP68 waterproofing and 32GB storage in a compact bone conduction design. This low weight helps reduce fatigue during long swim sessions while maintaining secure fit and underwater audio performance.

Which headphones are best for taking calls?

The Mojawa Run Plus New includes a microphone for calls. It supports both land and water use with IP68 waterproofing. This model is ideal if you need versatility for running and swimming while maintaining the ability to take calls on land.

Are these headphones safe for lap swimmers?

Yes, open-ear designs keep your ears open for safety. You can still hear pool alarms or coaches. Models like the Hostena IP68 and SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro use bone conduction to transmit sound through your cheekbones. This maintains situational awareness while you train.

Do I need a special transmitter for streaming?

Only for certain streaming combos. The Tayogo T6+W18 and T6+W23 require a transmitter unit to stream from your phone underwater. Standalone MP3 models like the SUUNTO Aqua do not need a transmitter, as they store music internally and play directly.

Which model works best with Android?

The Essonio Bone Conduction Headphones are optimized for Android. They feature 32GB storage and IP68 protection. This makes them a solid choice for Android users who want reliable underwater music playback without needing to connect to a phone during their swim.

See also