Product Review: AfterShokz Sport Headphones

Problem: One of the most dangerous threats an outdoor athlete faces is the risk of injury involving a motor vehicle. No one (unless, you live in an Amish settlement in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania) is immune to the dangers of the open road.

In a report conducted by Transportation for America (T4 America) in 2011, it was found that, in the last decade, from 2000 through 2009, more than 47,700 pedestrians were killed by motor vehicles in the United States.  And, lucky for me (please note my sarcasm), T4 America names my city of residence (Orlando- Kissimmee, Fla.) as The Most Dangerous Large Metro Area in the United States.  In fact, four out of the top five most dangerous areas are located in Florida!… I don’t think all of these deaths can be blamed on elderly drivers or on Snow Birds.

Proposed Solution: … I was recently gifted a set of AfterShokz Sport Headphones. I had no idea what they were when I received them – I was just excited for a free gift! Before testing out the headphones, I did some research and found out that… Aftershokz headphones sit comfortably in front of the ear and utilize bone conduction technology to deliver stereophonic sound through the listener’s cheekbones to the inner ear.

Original Thoughts (product doubts!)… “Ear phones that don’t actually sit inside my ear, how does this work? Am, I going to look ridiculous running with these?”

Product Analysis: In order to answer my questions, I hit the road with my AfterShokz.  I was surprised by how well they actually did worked. While using my Shokz, I was able to hear everything at just the right volume. I heard my upbeat and motivational jams and I was also able to hear each passing car on the road and even other active cyclists and runners in the area. I ran past a yard sale and was able to verbally communicate with an elderly gentleman outside. Normally I would have just given a quick wave or head nod.

• Additional Pros: To my surprise the headphones were also extremely comfortable! I have small ears and often find ear buds difficult to use. They never fit properly and I usually end up spending a good majority of the run trying to forcefully maneuver the buds into my ears. The Shokz headphones rested comfortable on my cheek bones and remained stationary throughout my workout.
• Cons: If you’re purposely looking to drown out surrounding sound, like juiceheads at the gym or people you don’t care to be social with on public transportation, I do not recommend the Shokz.

Final Conclusion: If you frequently run/bike outdoors, the AfterShokz Sport Headphones are a must! At $59.95, the price tag may be a little steep, but it’s worth your life!

Disclaimer: The aforementioned is my personal opinion and not the opinion of Aerys Sports. I did not receive any compensation for my review of the product.