If you’d asked me a few months ago what kind of earphones I’d take on marathon training runs, I probably would have muttered something about “whatever’s already charged”. But running has a way of making you care deeply about the details. Blisters, bounce, sound quality, whether you can still hear traffic; it all matters when you’re on your feet for hours at a time.
Launched in early June, the new Shokz OpenFit 2 Series aren’t just built for runners. They mark the brand’s first true foray into lifestyle audio. Whether you’re clocking up miles, flowing through yoga, or out walking the dog, these open-ear earbuds are for you.
But as a runner in the midst of marathon training, I naturally took them straight out for a series of test runs. Before diving into how they performed on the road, here’s a closer look at the two new models – including what’s new in the design, the technology behind the sound, and distinctive features of the two new releases.
The sound technology
Shokz has long been the name most associated with open-ear, bone conduction technology. But the OpenFit 2 Series takes a slightly different route. Rather than transmitting sound through bone, these models use DirectPitch™ technology — creating an open-ear, air conduction design that directs sound toward your ears without physically blocking them.
The launch brought two new models to the market: the OpenFit 2 and the OpenFit 2+, both designed with outdoor movement, safety, and long-term comfort in mind. While they share the same core features, the 2+ is the flagship version, with added perks like Dolby Audio and wireless charging.
The design
Both models in the OpenFit 2 Series are beautifully minimal. At just 9.4 grams per earbud, they feel impossibly light. When I first put them on, I kept double-checking they were still there. Turns out, they’re not flimsy; they’re just exceptionally well-balanced.
The redesigned earhooks are made from flexible nickel-titanium alloy and lined with soft silicone. They mould naturally to your ear, offering a level of stability that doesn’t rely on clamping or pressure. Even after two-hour runs in the heat (or light rain), I haven’t experienced any discomfort, bounce, or slipping. The design is sleek, with a matte finish, with the OpenFit 2 is available in black and beige, and OpenFit 2+ available in black and grey.
The Technology: A Legitimate Audio Upgrade
Now let’s talk about what makes these different from your standard wireless earbuds — and, for me, a step above anything I’ve used from Apple or other mainstream brands.
Both OpenFit 2 and 2+ include DualBoost™ audio architecture, featuring two individual drivers in each earbud — one for bass, one for mids and highs.
This separation allows for an impressively layered sound profile. In practice, that translates to deep, resonant low-end (yes, even outdoors) and vocals that remain clean and detailed, even during complex tracks.
The addition of OpenBass™ 2.0 delivers subtle low-frequency vibrations directly to the ear, boosting immersion without distortion. You get sound presence and clarity without sacrificing spatial awareness.
The OpenFit 2+ has the added Dolby Audio for a more cinematic, spatial experience. Not something you think you’d care about while running, but it really does enhance the detail and space of the music.
Key features to note
- Battery: 11 hours of listening on a single charge, 48 hours with the case. I charge once a week, maximum.
- Quick charge: 10 minutes = 2 hours of listening.
- Controls: Physical buttons and touch controls so you don’t have to skip your favourite song by accident when wiping away sweat.
- Calls: Four AI-powered noise-cancelling mics make phone calls surprisingly clear, even with wind or passing traffic.
- Water resistance: IP55-rated, so they’re sweat- and drizzle-proof.
- Bluetooth 5.4: Smooth, reliable connection throughout.
The OpenFit 2+ also includes wireless charging, which adds that extra bit of convenience.
OpenFit 2 vs. OpenFit 2+: Main differences
Here’s a quick breakdown of how the two models compare:
| Feature | OpenFit 2 | OpenFit 2+ |
|---|---|---|
| Audio Technology | Dual drivers + OpenBass™ 2.0 | Same, plus Dolby Audio |
| Charging | USB-C | USB-C + Wireless charging |
| Colours | Black, Beige | Black, Grey |
| Price | £169 | £179 |
If Dolby sound and wireless charging appeal to you – or if you’re someone who likes to wear the same pair for both workouts and Zoom calls – the extra £10 is well spent on the 2+.
Final verdict
I’ll be honest: the fit took some getting used to. If you’ve never used over-ear, open-ear designs before, the way these wrap around your ear can feel slightly awkward at first.
I definitely placed them wrong the first couple of times and they can feel a little flimsy if you’re expecting something more rigid. But once you get the hang of how they sit, they become second nature. And once they’re on properly, they stay put, even during long runs.
I’ve now logged dozens of KM with the OpenFit 2 series – some short fartlek runs, some long training sessions – and they’ve performed flawlessly every time. The sound is immersive without being isolating, the fit is featherlight and, importantly, I have the added sense of safety that comes from being fully engaged in my run while still aware of my surroundings.
For long runs, half-marathons or full marathons, they’re hard to beat. Most races don’t allow traditional in-ear or sound-blocking headphones for safety reasons, so open-ear is often the only legal option. If you’re going to invest in open-ear tech, Shokz is far and away one of the strongest options out there.
The OpenFit 2 and 2+ are available now from Shokz UK and at John Lewis stores, priced at £169 and £179 respectively.