IP68 bone conduction headphones with built-in MP3 player for lap swimming
Shokz OpenSwim: The dedicated bone conduction headphone for swimmers
At $150, the Shokz OpenSwim solves a specific problem: Bluetooth doesn't transmit underwater, so wireless earbuds go silent the moment you submerge. The OpenSwim bypasses this entirely with IP68 full submersion rating and a built-in 4GB MP3 player. No phone needed — load your playlist via USB, dive in, and listen.
What works
IP68 submersion rating means the OpenSwim is fully waterproof for swimming — pool laps, open water, triathlon training. It handles depth and duration that would destroy conventional wireless earbuds and even most IPX7-rated devices. This is the practical rating you need for serious swim training.
Built-in MP3 player with 4GB storage holds approximately 1,000 songs — enough for weeks of varied training playlists. USB connection for loading music is straightforward, and the process of syncing playlists before swim sessions becomes routine quickly.
Bone conduction design works underwater better than conventional in-ear headphones. Sound transmits through the cheekbones while your ears remain open — important for hearing pool instructions, fellow swimmers, and maintaining spatial awareness in open water.
8-hour battery handles long training sessions and multi-day trips without charging between every session.
What doesn't
No Bluetooth means the OpenSwim is MP3-only when used out of water — there is no wireless connection to your phone for regular use. For cross-training athletes who want the same headphones for running and swimming, this is a significant limitation. The solution is to pair it with a dedicated Bluetooth model (like the OpenRun) for non-swim workouts.
No microphone means no calls through the device. For swim-only use this is irrelevant, but worth noting for athletes who use one device across contexts.
4GB storage, while holding many songs, doesn't accommodate lossless audio files or very large libraries.
Who should buy this
The lap swimmer or triathlete who wants bone conduction audio in the water and is willing to manage MP3 playlists separately. If you're already a Shokz user for running, the OpenSwim completes a two-device swim/run setup.
Who should look elsewhere
Bluetooth outdoor use: Shokz OpenRun ($130) or OpenRun Pro ($180). True wireless: Shokz OpenFit ($160). Budget bone conduction: Vidonn F1 ($40), though it lacks swimming-grade waterproofing.