Joybuy Insights

Choosing open-ear headphones: a practical guide for sport, calls and everyday use

Open-ear headphones do not block the ear canal. This makes them appealing to runners, cyclists and fitness enthusiasts who want to listen to music or podcasts while staying aware of their surroundings. However, many models look similar in online shops. A high IP rating, long battery life or smart AI feature does not tell the whole story.

Pay particular attention to these three common pitfalls:

  • “Waterproof” without clear usage limits: IPX4 is designed for sweat and splashes, not swimming. Even a higher IP rating should be checked against the precise conditions, such as fresh water, pool water or salt water.
  • An open design that is still uncomfortable to wear: An ear hook or band may stay securely in place while running, but can put pressure on the ear, temple or cheekbones after longer periods.
  • Features without practical explanations: Terms such as noise cancellation, AI or “bone conduction concept” can mean different things. Always check the specific product details, such as the Bluetooth version, microphones, storage and controls.

Open-ear or bone conduction headphones: what is the difference?

Open-ear Bluetooth headphones generally use small speakers positioned in front of or above the ear. The ear canal remains unobstructed. With bone conduction headphones, the transducers usually rest against the cheekbones and deliver sound through vibrations. The fit and listening experience vary from model to model.

Both designs can help you stay aware of your surroundings, but they do not automatically make you safe in traffic. Do not turn the volume up so high that you can no longer hear traffic, alarms or other warnings. You should also follow Dutch traffic regulations and avoid using headphones when your full attention is required.

Three specifications to check before buying

1. Water resistance: IPX4, IP55, IP67 or IP68

The IP code provides information about protection against water and dust. Its meaning depends on the complete rating:

  • IPX4: protection against splashing water; suitable for sweat and light rain, but not immersion.
  • IP55: limited protection against dust and protection against water jets from certain directions.
  • IP67: dust-tight and resistant to temporary immersion under the conditions specified by the manufacturer.
  • IP68: a higher level of protection against immersion, with the exact test depth and duration varying by manufacturer.

A product with an IP67 or IP68 rating is not automatically a suitable pair of headphones for swimming. Check whether Bluetooth works while swimming and whether the model has internal storage. Bluetooth signals have limited effectiveness underwater. According to the product information, the Mojawa Run Plus models come with 32 GB of storage and are intended for activities including swimming. Rinse a model with fresh water after contact with salt water and only charge it once the charging contacts are dry.

2. Comfort and stability

For running headphones, weight, pressure distribution and the way they are secured are more important than a striking design. An ear clip can be comfortable if you do not want earbuds inside the ear canal. A neckband or over-ear construction can provide extra stability during movement, but may be less discreet.

Check the product page for:

  • weight per earbud or total weight;
  • adjustability of the ear hooks or band;
  • position of the speakers or transducers;
  • button or touch controls;
  • suitability for glasses, helmets or sunglasses.

3. Bluetooth, microphone and battery

Bluetooth headphones with a microphone are useful for phone calls while walking, working or commuting. Two microphones, as found on the Soundcore C40i and AeroFit 2, are verifiable product specifications. However, call quality also depends on wind, network conditions and the position of the microphones.

Also look at:

  • Bluetooth version and compatibility with your phone;
  • battery life of the headphones, not just that of the charging case;
  • charging type and the included cable or dock;
  • internal storage for use without a phone;
  • warnings about charging in a damp environment.

A wireless sports headset with a charging case is practical for everyday use. For swimming, built-in storage is generally more relevant than a stable Bluetooth connection alone.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
sanag G6S New Sports Touch Wireless Earphones

sanag G6S New Sports Touch Wireless Earphones

Why it suits this profile: This model is designed for running, cycling, fitness and outdoor use. The open-ear ear hook keeps the ear canal clear, and each earbud weighs approximately 5.6 grams according to the product specifications.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications state IPX4 and warn against immersion. This makes it clear that the model is not intended to be used as swimming headphones.

Key benefit & highlights

Bluetooth 5.3, touch controls, ENC for calls and a charging case. The stated IPX4 rating is suitable for sweat and light rain.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds Black

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds Black

Why it suits this profile: The open positioning is designed for music, calls and everyday use without completely covering the ears. The stated battery life is up to 7 hours of playback.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states IPX4 and advises avoiding damp conditions. This helps prevent you from confusing an everyday model with waterproof sports earbuds.

Key benefit & highlights

Bluetooth 5.3, an open design and an included charging case. The manufacturer also states a product weight of 60 grams.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Mojawa RunPlus Bone Conduction Headphones

Mojawa RunPlus Bone Conduction Headphones

Why it suits this profile: This model combines bone conduction, open-ear Bluetooth and 32 GB of MP3 storage. That is practical when you do not want to rely on a phone connection while swimming or running.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated IP68 rating and built-in storage make it better suited to swimming than a model with IPX4 alone. However, always check the manual and water limits before use.

Key benefit & highlights

32 GB of storage and an IP68 rating according to the product listing. After swimming, rinse the device with fresh water and allow it to dry completely.

Suitable for: Work, calls and everyday use
soundcore AeroFit 2 Wireless Open-Ear Headphones

soundcore AeroFit 2 Wireless Open-Ear Headphones

Why it suits this profile: According to the product specifications, the AeroFit 2 is designed for calls, music, sport and everyday use. The open-ear fit and two microphones make it well suited to a varied working and sporting day.

How this product avoids the pitfall

IP55 is more specific than a general claim such as “sports-ready”. According to the stated rating, the model is water- and dust-resistant, but it is not intended for swimming.

Key benefit & highlights

Bluetooth 5.4, two microphones, button controls, a charging station and a stated battery capacity of 750 mAh.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about open-ear headphones

Are open-ear headphones suitable for running?

Yes, provided they remain securely in place and the volume is low enough for you to hear traffic and other sounds around you. An open design is no substitute for staying alert. Choose an ear hook or another fastening method that suits your movements.

Can I swim with open-ear headphones?

Not with every model. IPX4 and IP55 models are not designed for immersion. Look specifically for a model with a suitable IP rating and internal storage, such as a model from the Mojawa RunPlus range. Always check the usage conditions for pool water and salt water.

How long does the battery of wireless sports headphones last?

This varies by model, volume, Bluetooth usage and the number of charging cycles. Compare the stated playback time of the headphones themselves with the additional capacity of the charging case. Only charge magnetic contacts when they are clean and completely dry.