Swimming bone conduction headphones are a type of specialized audio device designed for use in water.
They use bone conduction technology to transmit sound vibrations directly to the inner ear through the bones of the skull, bypassing the eardrum.
These headphones offer swimmers a comfortable, secure, and waterproof listening experience while maintaining situational awareness in aquatic environments.
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Why Swimming Bone Conduction Headphones?
Swimming is a fantastic workout that not only provides numerous physical benefits but also serves as a great way to relax and unwind.
To make the experience even more enjoyable, many swimmers choose to listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks during their sessions.
However, traditional headphones may not be suitable for use in the water. Enter swimming bone conduction headphones, a fantastic solution for those looking to enjoy their favorite audio content while swimming.
In this guide, we’ll explore what swimming bone conduction headphones are, their benefits, and how to choose the best model for your needs.
The rise of Swimming Bone Conduction Headphones
Swimming bone conduction headphones have gained popularity among swimmers in recent years due to their unique technology and features designed specifically for aquatic use.
Unlike regular headphones that use air conduction to transmit sound through the ear canal, bone conduction headphones rely on vibrations to send audio directly to the inner ear through the bones of the skull.
How do Swimming Bone Conduction Headphones work?
Bone conduction technology bypasses the eardrum and sends vibrations through the bones of the skull, allowing the inner ear to receive audio signals directly.
This method of sound transmission is particularly useful for swimmers, as it eliminates the need for earbuds, which can be uncomfortable and may not provide a secure fit in the water.
Benefits of Bone Conduction Headphones for Swimmers
Swimming bone conduction headphones offer several advantages over traditional headphones, including:
Waterproof and secure fit
These headphones are specifically designed for use in water and have a waterproof rating that ensures they will not be damaged by exposure to moisture.
Additionally, they are engineered to fit securely on the swimmer’s head, reducing the risk of them falling off during vigorous workouts.
Situational awareness
Since bone conduction headphones do not block the ear canal, swimmers can still hear their surroundings, allowing them to maintain situational awareness and communicate with others in the pool.
Comfort and reduced ear fatigue
Without the need for earbuds, swimmers can avoid the discomfort and ear fatigue often associated with prolonged use of traditional headphones.
Top Bone Conduction Headphones for Swimming
In this section, we’ll review five popular bone conduction headphones designed for swimming, detailing their features and benefits:
Shokz OpenSwim – With 8 hours of battery life, magnetic charging, an IP68 waterproof rating, and 4GB of storage, the Shokz OpenSwim headphones are lightweight at just 29g and priced between $135 and $155. However, they do not support Bluetooth connectivity.
Tayogo WB02 – These headphones offer 5 hours of battery life, USB charging with a 2.5mm jack, an IPX8 waterproof rating, Bluetooth 4.2, 8GB of storage, and weigh 58g. They are priced between $70 and $90.
Naenka Runner Diver – With an impressive 10 hours of battery life, magnetic charging, an IP68 waterproof rating, Bluetooth 5.3, 16GB of storage, and weighing just 35g, the Naenka Runner Diver headphones are priced between $120 and $160.
H2O Audio Tri – These headphones feature 9 hours of battery life, Micro USB charging, an IPX8 waterproof rating, Bluetooth 5.0, 8GB of storage, and weigh 32g. They are priced between $90 and $150.
Finis Duo – With 7 hours of battery life, magnetic charging, an IPX8 waterproof rating, and 4GB of storage, the Finis Duo headphones do not support Bluetooth connectivity. They weigh 150g and are priced between $90 and $160.
List of Swimming Bone Conduction Headphones
Here’s a list and comparison table for Swimming Bone Conduction Headphones
Swimming Bone Conduction Headphones
How to Choose the Best Bone Conduction Headphones for Swimming
When selecting the ideal swimming bone conduction headphones, consider the following factors:
Waterproof rating – Look for a high waterproof rating, such as IPX8 or IP68, to ensure the headphones can withstand prolonged exposure to water.
Battery life – Choose headphones with a battery life sufficient for your swimming sessions. Longer battery life is generally more convenient, but may come at a higher cost.
Sound quality – Opt for headphones that deliver clear and crisp audio, even when submerged in water.
Comfort and fit – Ensure the headphones are comfortable to wear and provide a secure fit that won’t slip during your swim.
Price and warranty – Factor in your budget and the manufacturer’s warranty when making your decision.
How to Use Bone Conduction Headphones For Swimming
Using bone conduction headphones while swimming is simple:
- Charge the headphones before use.
- If using Bluetooth-enabled headphones, pair them with your device.
- Adjust the headphones for a secure and comfortable fit on your head.
- Press play on your device or use the headphones’ built-in controls to start your audio content.
- Enjoy your swim while listening to your favorite tunes, podcasts, or audiobooks.
Other Uses of Swimming Bone Conduction Headphones
Swimming bone conduction headphones are versatile and can be used for various water-based activities besides swimming.
Some other uses include:
- Water aerobics: Enjoy your favorite tunes or follow along with instructional audio during water aerobics sessions, improving your workout experience.
- Snorkeling: Enhance your snorkeling adventures by listening to music or an audiobook, making your underwater exploration even more enjoyable.
- Paddleboarding: Stay entertained and maintain situational awareness while paddleboarding, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
- Kayaking or canoeing: Keep yourself entertained during kayaking or canoeing trips without compromising your ability to hear your surroundings, improving both safety and enjoyment.
- Open water swimming: For those who prefer swimming in the ocean, lake, or other natural bodies of water, bone conduction headphones can provide motivation and entertainment during long-distance swims.
- Synchronized swimming: Synchronized swimmers can use swimming bone conduction headphones to listen to music while practicing their routines, helping them stay in sync with their teammates.
- Rehabilitation and therapy: Patients participating in aquatic therapy or rehabilitation can use bone conduction headphones to listen to instructions from a therapist or motivational content to make the experience more enjoyable and productive.
- Relaxation and meditation: Bone conduction headphones can be used during relaxation exercises or meditation sessions in water, allowing you to immerse yourself in calming sounds, music, or guided meditations.
- Multimodal events: Swimming bone conduction headphones can also be used during events that combine water-based activities with other sports, such as triathlons or adventure races. These headphones allow participants to seamlessly transition between different activities, ensuring they can enjoy their audio content throughout the event while staying aware of their surroundings.
While swimming bone conduction headphones are designed primarily for water-based activities, it’s important to remember that each model may have different waterproof ratings and capabilities.
Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure that the headphones are suitable for your intended use before engaging in any activity.
How to Care for Your Swimming Bone Conduction Headphones
Proper care can extend the life of your swimming bone conduction headphones.
Follow these tips:
- Rinse the headphones with fresh water after each swim to remove chlorine or salt.
- Gently dry the headphones with a soft cloth.
- Store the headphones in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Charge the headphones according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Comparing Wired vs. Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones for Swimming
When choosing between wired and wireless bone conduction headphones for swimming, there are several factors to consider.
Here’s a comparison to help you make an informed decision:
Wired swimming bone conduction headphones require a waterproof device or case to connect to your audio source, while wireless models typically utilize Bluetooth or built-in storage for audio playback.
Battery life is not a concern for wired models, but it varies among wireless options. Wireless models offer more freedom of movement, making them generally more convenient for swimmers.
Comparison of Swimming Bone Conduction Headphones vs Communications vs Sports
Bone conduction headphones have different features and functionalities depending on their intended use.
The following comparison highlights the differences between swimming, communications, and sports bone conduction headphones:
Swimming bone conduction headphones are specifically designed for underwater use and are waterproof.
Communication-focused models prioritize call quality and music playback, while sports models are optimized for outdoor activities and music.
Battery life varies across all three types, depending on the model.
Comparing Swimming Bone Conduction Headphones vs. Traditional Headphones for Swimming
Swimming bone conduction headphones and traditional headphones differ in several ways, making them more or less suitable for aquatic use.
Here’s a comprehensive comparison of swimming bone conduction headphones and traditional headphones for swimming:
Swimming bone conduction headphones are waterproof, designed for underwater use, and provide a secure and comfortable fit.
They come in both wired and wireless options, and their battery life varies by model.
These headphones allow for situational awareness, cause less ear fatigue, and require post-swim rinsing for maintenance.
They are generally lightweight, and their price varies by model.
Traditional headphones, on the other hand, require a waterproof model or case for swimming.
Their sound quality and fit may not be optimized for use in water.
Like bone conduction headphones, they also come in wired and wireless options, with battery life varying by model.
Traditional headphones may block external sounds, potentially cause discomfort over time, and may require additional care for waterproof models.
The weight and price of traditional headphones vary by model.
You can also check out our other Comprehensive Guides to Bone Conduction Headphones;
Bone Conduction Headphone Types
Bone Conduction Headphone Features
Communications Bone Conduction Headphones
Sports Bone Conduction Headphones
How Much Do Bone Conduction Headphones Cost?
Here is a video guide on Swimming Bone Conduction Headphones by Sean Talks Tech.
FAQs
Are bone conduction headphones safe to use while swimming?
Yes, swimming bone conduction headphones are designed specifically for use in water and are safe when used according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Can I use bone conduction headphones with a swim cap?
Yes, most bone conduction headphones can be worn with a swim cap. Ensure the headphones fit securely and comfortably beneath the cap.
Do bone conduction headphones work well for people with hearing loss?
Yes, bone conduction headphones can be beneficial for individuals with hearing loss, as they bypass the outer and middle ear, transmitting sound directly to the inner ear through vibrations.
However, the effectiveness may vary depending on the type and degree of hearing loss.
Can I use swimming bone conduction headphones for other sports and activities?
Yes, swimming bone conduction headphones can be used for other sports and activities. However, their features are specifically designed for use in water, so there may be more suitable models available for non-aquatic activities.
How long do swimming bone conduction headphones typically last?
The lifespan of swimming bone conduction headphones depends on the quality of the product and how well they are cared for.
With proper care and maintenance, they can last several years.
Conclusion
Swimming bone conduction headphones provide swimmers with an excellent way to enjoy their favorite audio content while in the water.
These headphones offer a secure and comfortable fit, allowing for an uninterrupted swimming experience.
When choosing the best model for your needs, consider factors such as waterproof rating, battery life, sound quality, comfort, and price.
By investing in a quality pair of swimming bone conduction headphones and taking proper care of them, you can enhance your swimming sessions and make them even more enjoyable.
Further Reading
- “7 Best Waterproof Headphones for Swimming” by YourSwimLog. [1]
- “The best bone conduction headphones for swimming” by Android Police. [2]
- “Wired Vs Wireless Headphones Time to Choose” by Shokz Uk. [3]
- “Headphones For Swimming: In-Ear vs Bone Conduction” by Screen Rant. [4]
- “How bone conduction headphones for swimming work” by Shokz Uk. [5]
- “A triathletes guide to swimming with headphones” by TRI247. [6]