Best earbuds for running, Expert recommendations to choose

Equipment
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I researched the best earbuds for running for past few days because i have recently started running regularly and want something that is comfortable, secure and delivers great sound i read reviews on the newyork times, runner’s world and techradar and these two models consistently stand out as top-rated recommendations:

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are wireless bluetooth earbuds with noise cancelling, heart rate monitoring, IPX4 water resistance, up to 45 hours battery with charging case and compatibility with both Apple & Android devices.

SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 are open-ear, bone conduction sport headphones with a reflective strip, sweat resistance, comfortable fit, deep bass and smart mic app for clear calls.

However, I am having trouble deciding which one would best suit my needs. I want earbuds that can handle long runs, stay secure even with movement, resist sweat and still offer great sound quality. I also occasionally take calls during runs so microphone clarity matters to me.

If anyone here has tried either of these, which one would you recommend for someone who runs 4 to 5 times a week, sometimes in light rain or at night? Any personal experiences or recommendations would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance

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As a cyclist, I would suggest you use the OpenRun Pro 2 because since they are bone conduction, you can hear the world around you.

Too many runners who are on cycling paths, cannot hear verbal warnings because they are in their own world with their earbuds or head phones.

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OK, I am old, but as a cyclist I would suggest you NEVER wear earbuds. Yes some are better at allowing you to hear the world around you but none are better than no earbuds. Stepping of my soap box now and going to take a nap.

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This was about a runner using earbuds. I was speaking from the perspective of a cyclist. The OpenRun are not earbuds.

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That’s what happens when you are old…comprehension deficient???

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Critmark: You are old because you are still alive because you seem to have good old-fashioned common sense… Fully agree with your post.

Sam

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I’ll have to chime in from a different angle… I use ONE earbud on ALL rides. It’s hardly loud enough to drown ANYTHING out from outside, but it has the very important function of allowing me to actually HEAR the not-loud-enough warnings from my Garmin VARIA Radar Rear Light, alerting me to cars coming from behind.

I run the VARIA app on my phone, which pipes the VARIA APP SOUNDS, which are actually much more audible and catch my attention better than the little beeps from the EDGE.

I ride a lot of back roads with extremely low traffic, and many vehicles are so silent that I need that additional distance and time of alerting to keep me posted about what’s coming behind me.

I rarely listen to music while riding, but often listen to teaching messages, and this adds a lot of value to my rides. I don’t find them distracting at all, but that’s an individual choice, I guess.

I can usually find LOTS of other things to be distracted by on those back roads, though… Deer, turkey, occasionally bear, bald eagles, hawks, awesome scenery, ….. :grinning_face:

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Thanks everyone for sharing your perspectives.:blush: I see the discussion branched into cycling use as well which is definitely interesting to hear about.

For my original question, I am mainly focused on running typically 4–5 times a week so my priorities are secure fit, sweat resistance, good sound quality and a clear mic for the occasional call.

If anyone has direct experience with either the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 or SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 specifically for running especially in light rain or during night runs, I do love to hear how they perform. Your real world feedback would help me decide.

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Def the Shokz ORP2; I have no hesitation in recommending!

I use mine on regular runs (6x week upto 30k / 2.5hrs) including hill rep / speed work.

Absolutely rock solid on the head; even with sunglasses. I barely notice them (other than when I first wore them and noticed the improved sound quality vs the Open Run Pro (bass and “bigger sound stage”) - yup I’ve got both (and the open move).

Generally they are loud enough but if listening to a podcast whilst running along a busy road it can be difficult to hear every nuance - which is kind of the point! These aren’t isolation headphones!

So, Great fit, battery life is fine and and a surprisingly good sound for bone conduction. I’ve made a few phone calls and the mic is fine.

They can also be paired with two different devices for easier switching between things.

(I also use my ORP on the indoor trainer and bike; They’re great for that too!)

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Let me be clear. My recommendation was for a runner. I was explaining why I as a cyclist recommended OpenRun for a runner.

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Thanks for the detailed feedback
After your expert suggestion, I am leaning toward the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 (ORP2. I think they will be a great fit for my running routine and I am try it soon.

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Thanks again to everyone who suggested the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2—I’ve been using them for about 20 days now and I’m really enjoying them. They’ve fit perfectly into my running routine.

Some of the features I’m liking the most:

  • Long battery life – I can go several workouts without needing a recharge, and the quick charge is super handy.

  • Open-ear bone conduction design – keeps me aware of traffic and surroundings while still enjoying music.

  • Comfortable fit – lightweight, stable, and no irritation even on long runs.

  • Sweat resistance – no worries during intense workouts.

  • Reflective strip – gives me extra visibility on evening runs.

  • Deep bass & clear sound – better than I expected from bone conduction.

  • Smart mic – calls are crisp and clear when I need to pick up on the go.

Really glad I went with these—thanks again for pointing me in the right direction!

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