Shokz OpenFit vs. OpenRun

Over the past year, I have begun my running journey with completing marathons in 2024. I live in a village which has no safe running routes, all on country roads. One of the questions I had (minus how can I be seen by drivers) was: “What headphones can I use safely on the country roads?”. I then found Shokz and over the year I purchased the models in question, both having their pros and cons.

Shokz has carved a niche for itself in the audio world with its unique open-ear headphones. The OpenFit and OpenRun models are two of the most popular options, each catering to different preferences and needs. Let’s dive into the key differences to help you decide which one is the perfect fit for you.

Design and Comfort

OpenFit: Designed for maximum comfort, OpenFit features a lightweight, flexible ear hook that gently rests on your ears. It’s ideal for those who prefer a minimal feel and want to maintain a high level of situational awareness.

OpenRun: This model offers a more traditional headphone-like design with a neckband. While slightly bulkier than OpenFit, OpenRun provides a more secure fit during intense workouts or outdoor activities.

Sound Quality

OpenFit: Delivers impressive sound quality with a focus on clear vocals and balanced audio. The open-ear design allows for natural sound immersion, making it suitable for various activities.

OpenRun: Offers a richer sound profile with deeper bass and enhanced audio experience. It’s a great choice for music enthusiasts who prioritize sound quality without compromising on open-ear benefits.

Features and Performance

OpenFit: Boasts a quick-charge feature, providing an hour of playtime with just five minutes of charging. It also offers a decent battery life for most users.

OpenRun: Generally has a longer battery life compared to OpenFit, making it suitable for extended workouts or outdoor adventures. It often comes with additional features like multi-point pairing or enhanced water resistance.

Ideal Use Cases

OpenFit: Perfect for everyday use, gym workouts, walking, or any activity where comfort and situational awareness are paramount.

OpenRun: Best suited for running, cycling, or other high-intensity workouts where a secure fit is essential. Also ideal for those who prioritise sound quality and longer battery life.

Ultimately, the choice between Shokz OpenFit and OpenRun depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If comfort and minimal design are your top concerns, OpenFit might be the better option. However, if you prioritise sound quality, battery life, and a secure fit for intense activities, OpenRun could be the way to go.

Personally… after completing my marathons, having these headphones available, it allowed me to zone out and listen to my audiobooks at the ‘quieter’ areas of the race but also allow me to take in the experience and crowd cheers when they were needed. For me, I gravitated towards the OpenFit model, it allowed me to listen to my environment and, if I am honest, did not have the vibrations which gave me headaches. I also found the OpenRun just didnt fit my head as comfortably as I liked. The headphones lasted 4–5 hours (depending on the volume) however the case is so quick, I was given another 2 hours with 10–20min of charge.