Running outside can be tricky when you need to stay aware of traffic or people behind you. Traditional earbuds block out the world, which makes me feel unsafe on busy roads. I picked up the Original SHOKZ OpenMove S661 Bone Conduction Earphone to see if they could actually fix this problem.
What are these Shokz headphones?
These are bone conduction headphones that sit just outside your ears rather than inside them. Because they do not cover your ear canals, you can hear your music and the sounds of the world at the same time. I found these on AliExpress because they were budget-friendly compared to the higher-end models, and I managed to get free shipping on my order.
Why choose this headset?
The main appeal here is safety and comfort. Since nothing goes inside your ear, you do not deal with that annoying pressure or sweat buildup during a long run. These are built with a titanium wrap-around frame that stays put even when you are moving fast.
Real world performance
The sound quality is surprisingly clear for a bone conduction device. While you do not get the heavy bass of big over-ear headphones, the audio is perfect for podcasts or upbeat running playlists. The Bluetooth 5.1 connection is stable and I rarely deal with dropouts while my phone is in my pocket.
Pros and Cons of OpenMove
- Pros
- You can hear traffic and surroundings clearly while running.
- The headset is very lightweight and comfortable for hours.
- It is sweat-proof, so you do not have to worry about a heavy workout.
- The buttons are easy to find and press while on the move.
- Cons
- Shipping takes a few weeks if you are waiting for a package from overseas.
- The volume can leak if you turn it all the way up in a quiet room.
- There is no local warranty, so you are on your own if they break after a year.
- The fit is not adjustable, so it might feel loose if you have a smaller head size.
Is this right for you?
If you are a runner, cyclist, or someone who works in an office but needs to hear when people talk to you, this is a great choice. You get a high-quality product without paying a premium price. However, skip these if you are an audiophile who wants deep, immersive bass or if you plan to use them in very noisy places like an airplane.
What other buyers say
One fellow runner mentioned that they finally stopped feeling nervous while running on trails because they could hear approaching bikes. Another buyer told me they use them at their desk all day and love that they can listen to music while still hearing their coworkers ask questions. Most people seem to agree that these provide a great balance between utility and cost.
Final verdict
I have been using these for a few months and they have become a standard part of my exercise routine. They are not perfect, and you should be prepared for a long wait for shipping from AliExpress. Still, the freedom of having open ears makes them a smart purchase for any active person on a budget. You get exactly what you pay for, and in this case, that means a solid, reliable pair of headphones.
