How to Choose the Right Open-Ear Headphones

In-ear headphones, despite their strengths, have their limits: long-term discomfort, a sense of isolation... a disconnection from the outside world that can be risky in the city. Whether you're a safety-conscious athlete, a professional taking back-to-back calls, or simply seeking comfort, open-ear headphones are emerging as an excellent alternative.

The principle is simple: they leave your ear canal completely open so you can enjoy your music or podcasts while remaining fully aware of your surroundings. But with a booming market, how do you navigate the options? This guide is here to help you make sense of it all, decode the technologies, and introduce our selection of the best models currently available.

How to Choose the Right Open-Ear Headphones?

Before you buy, let's review the key points to ensure you make the right choice.

1. Technology: Bone Conduction or Air Conduction?

The term "open-ear" actually covers two main technological families:

• Bone Conduction Headphones: These models transmit sound through micro-vibrations on your temporal bones, just in front of your ears. The sound bypasses the eardrum and reaches your inner ear directly. This is the go-to technology for athletes due to its rock-solid fit and its ability to leave the ears completely uncovered—a major safety advantage.
• Air Conduction (or Clip-On) Earbuds: A more recent innovation, these models clip onto the outer ear and direct sound towards the ear canal without ever blocking it. They are often praised as an alternative to in-ear headphones for their unbeatable all-day comfort, as they exert no pressure in or on the ear.

2. Waterproofing and Durability: The IP Rating Is Your Best Friend

For sports use, water and sweat resistance is non-negotiable. For this, there's one key thing to check: the Ingress Protection (IP) rating, which tells you the level of waterproofing.

• IP67: Total protection against dust and resistance to temporary immersion in water (up to 1 metre for 30 minutes). Perfect for running headphones or for cycling, as they won't be fazed by sweat or a heavy downpour.
• IP68: Even greater protection, allowing for prolonged immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer. This certification is essential if you're looking for MP3 swimming headphones.

3. Battery Life and Call Quality

Battery life is a critical factor, especially for long sports sessions or busy workdays. Be sure to check the battery life of the earbuds themselves, as well as the extra power provided by their charging case. If you're in back-to-back video calls, microphone quality is crucial. Opt for models with multiple microphones and noise-reduction algorithms—the people you're talking to will thank you. Of course, all these models are wireless Bluetooth headphones, ensuring a simple and stable connection with your devices.

Recommended Open-Ear Headphones

Let's get to the specifics with our selection of three models that each excel in their category, from the accomplished athlete to the mobile professional.

Mojawa RunPlus: For Swimmers and Versatile Athletes

Why this model stands out: The Mojawa RunPlus makes a strong impression with its dual functionality. It's a classic set of Bluetooth bone conduction headphones, but it also integrates a 32GB MP3 player. Paired with its IP68 waterproof certification, it stands out as the ultimate training partner for swimming, completely freeing you from your smartphone.

Highlights:

• IP68 certification for full immersion while swimming.
• Integrated 32GB MP3 player for complete autonomy.
• Bone conduction technology ensures a perfect fit during exercise.
• Deep bass, an area often criticised in this type of technology.

Who is it for? The obvious choice for swimmers, triathletes, and any athlete who wants to train with music without relying on their phone.

Mojawa Purra Run: The Balanced Option for Everyday Sports

Why this model stands out: The Mojawa Purra Run is a set of bone conduction headphones designed for regular athletes. Certified IP67, it's not afraid of sweat or bad weather. Its ergonomic design was engineered for a flawless fit, whether you're running, cycling, or at the gym, making it excellent safe cycling headphones.

Highlights:

• IP67 certification for protection against sweat and rain.
• Ergonomic design for a secure fit even during intense activities.
• Integrated microphone and voice controls to manage calls and music without stopping.
• Excellent balance between audio performance and environmental awareness.

Who is it for? Ideal for runners, cyclists, and fitness enthusiasts looking for reliable, safe, and durable sports headphones for their daily workouts.

Soundcore AeroClip by Anker: Comfort Above All

Why this model stands out: The Soundcore AeroClip is a game-changer with its clip-on format. There's no bone conduction here, but rather air conduction via earbuds that rest gently on the ear. The absolute priority is long-term comfort, making them the perfect comfortable headphones for a long workday. Their 4 microphones with AI processing ensure stunning call quality.

Highlights:

• Ultra-light and flexible clip-on design for optimal all-day comfort.
• Crystal-clear call quality thanks to 4 microphones and a noise-reduction algorithm.
• 12mm titanium-coated drivers for rich and precise sound.
• Directional audio technology that minimises sound leakage to the outside.

Who is it for? The perfect model for remote professionals, call-heavy users, and anyone who can no longer stand in-ear or bone conduction headphones for long periods.

Looking for Other Options?

Our selection covers specific use cases, but the "open" audio market is much broader and is constantly evolving. If you don't find what you're looking for here or are simply curious, feel free to explore our full catalogue.

? Explore our safety headphones category to discover more models

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Are bone conduction headphones safe for your hearing?

Indeed, bone conduction does not put any pressure on the eardrum. However, as with any headphones or earbuds, listening at excessively high volumes for long periods remains dangerous for your hearing. So, moderation is still key!

2. What is the difference between IP67 and IP68 waterproofing?

An IP67 rating means the device can withstand immersion in up to 1 metre of water for 30 minutes. This is more than enough for rain and sweat. The IP68 rating goes a step further, allowing for prolonged immersion under conditions defined by the manufacturer. It's the essential certification for swimming, as seen on the Mojawa RunPlus.

3. Can you use open-ear headphones for phone calls?

Absolutely. Almost all models include microphones for calls. However, their quality varies greatly. For professional use, opt for a model equipped with multiple mics and good ambient noise reduction, like the Soundcore AeroClip.