When adventure calls, a few things will always come to mind when you need to pack your backpack. Water to stay hydrated, snacks along the way, sunscreen, a hat, your camera, and maybe even an umbrella – just in case.
Something else that may come to mind is your newly purchased open-ear headphones, after all, you bought them with the intent of wearing them while out and about.
The great thing about them is that you can listen to your favorite music or podcasts while hearing the outside world. It’s like being inside your own bubble without the safety risk.
This means that you can enjoy the great outdoors while listening to your favorite playlist. You’re still aware of your surroundings while still being in the zone.
The benefits of using open ear earbuds outdoors
If you’re unfamiliar with open-ear headphones or earbuds, or simply need a recap as to why you need to give them a try, here are the top benefits associated with using them.
Comfortable fit
There is nothing more annoying than your headphones or earphones constantly falling out of your ears. In addition, the ear canal may start to hurt the longer you leave it in your ear.
Lightweight
When you’re on the go, you want to feel light and free, so loud or heavy headphones aren’t acceptable on the trail. Bluetooth headphones are best for hiking because you don’t have to worry about wires, and they are smaller and lighter than traditional headphones.
A cleaner choice
Bacteria are known to thrive in environments that are warm and moist. When you plug in your headphones, you create a warm environment. Double that with sweat from intense outdoor activities and you have the perfect atmosphere for bacteria to multiply.
Long battery life
Another fun killer when exercising outdoors or going on an adventure is when your headphones run out of battery before you’re done.
Situational awareness
Whether you’re out in nature or walking through an urban area, being able to hear what’s around you is a big part of your enjoyment and safety. It also means you can chat with friends – in real life or on your phone – while getting some fresh air and exercise.
The 5 best open-ear true wireless earbuds
Equipped with a bit of knowledge and a thirst for adventure, it’s time for you to take the next step and discover some of the best open ear earbuds out there.
1. Cleer ARC
The Download
These open ear true wireless earbuds with 7-hour battery life are the perfect addition to any outdoor adventure. The comfortable design with ear hook hinge ensures that the earbud is safely secured while directing sound into the ear instead of covering it completely.
Additional features include:
- Easy to use touch controls
- 16.2mm neodymium drivers delivering impressive sound
- Customization with the Cleer+ App
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 6.61 x 3.31 x 7.6 in
- Item Weight: 3.36 oz
- Connectivity Technology: Wireless
- Fit Type: On-Ear
- Special Features: Android Phone Control, iOS Phone Control, Lightweight, Microphone Feature
Where to get it
2. Skull Candy Push Active
The Download
These earbuds were designed with active individuals in mind. With a 44-hour battery life and Skull-iQ Smart Feature Technology, you’re almost guaranteed to have the best sound experience while outdoors.
Additional features include:
- Voice control to easily skip or pause songs
- IP55 sweat and water-resistant raining
- Customizable with the Skullcandy App
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 7 x 4 x 2 in
- Item Weight: 3.35 oz
- Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
- Fit Type: In-Ear
- Special Features: Fast Charging, iOS Phone Control, Android Phone Control, Microphone Feature, Sports & Exercise
Where to get it
3. Bose Sport Open Earbuds
The Download
The unique open ear design of these earbuds makes them ideal for any adventure – from surfing to hiking and everything in between! They’ve even been designed to mold to the shape of your ear, offering the best possible fit.
Additional features include:
- Two 16 mm drivers for impressive sound
- IPX4 water-resistant rating
- Up to 8 hours of battery life
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 0.78 x 3.75 x 2.17 in
- Item Weight: 0.96 oz
- Connectivity Technology: Wireless
- Cable Feature: Without Cable
- Special Feature: Lightweight, Volume-Control, Microphone Feature, Sports & Exercise, Water Resistant
Where to get it
4. Shokz OpenRun
The Download
Previously known as Aeropex, these open earbuds have come a long way. Now with a fresh new look and name, they promise to deliver on the exceptional quality people have already come to know with AfterShokz but taken to the next level with Shokz.
Additional features include:
- 8-hour battery life
- IP67 water and sweat resistant rating
- Comes with two different sized bands for a secure fit
The Specs
- Item Weight: 1.02 oz
- Connectivity Technology: Wireless
- Fit Type: Over-Ear, In-Ear
- Headphones Jack: 3.5 mm Jack
- Special Feature: Wireless, Microphone, Sports-and-exercise, Lightweight
Where to get it
5. Haylou wireless bone conducting earphones
The Download
If you’ve got the budget and would like to splurge on a pair of open ear earbuds, these are definitely the way to go. Endorsed by athletes and made to compliment an on-the-go lifestyle, it has everything you need and more.
We’ve reviewed the Haylou and thought they we’re pretty fly.
Additional features include:
- 9-hour battery life
- Sweat and water-resistant rating
- Long Battery Life
- Magnetic Fast Charging
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 1.77 x 4.92 x 0.39 in
- Item Weight: 11.3 oz
- Connectivity Technology: Wireless
- Form Factor: Over Ear
- Special Features: Fast Charging, Sweatproof, Microphone Included, Noise-Canceling, Sports & Exercise
Where to get it
It’s time to embrace the best of both worlds
While you’re out on your next adventure, be sure to bring your open ear earbuds with you. Not only will they help you stay motivated every step of the way, but they’ll keep you connected with the world too.
Endless hours of experimentation, professional work, and personal investment in Home Theatre, Hi-Fi, Smart Home Automation and Headphones have come to this.
Former owner of Headphones Canada, a high-end headphone specialty retailer.
This post was last updated on 2025-03-13 / Some images from Amazon Product API & some links may be affiliate links which may earn us a commission from purchases.