Introduction
Listening to podcasts or music with earbuds can be a game changer because you're not imposing your personal tastes on those around you. However, extended headphone usage does have its problems.
Wearing earbuds may be uncomfortable after a while. And, if you don't clean them regularly, they may accumulate dirt, which can enter your ear. You don't have to do away with your earbuds, though. Instead, you can consider other options like open-ear headphones.
What are Open-ear Headphones?
Open-ear headphones are designed to sit right outside the ear canal as opposed to inside the canal like regular earbuds.
In fact, the headphones don't actually touch your ear. This can be beneficial to those who dislike putting objects in their ears for hygiene reasons. Runners who sweat may prefer open-ear headphones as sweat can build up inside the ear canal, making this area susceptible to bacterial growth and therefore ear infections.
As the name suggests, open-ear headphones have ear cups that aren't sealed. They are open or partially open. This means those close to you can hear what you're listening to, and you can hear sounds around you as well, making them ideal for activities like walking and jogging outdoors.
By having an open ear cup, you won't get a sealed environment around your ear, so you won't experience noise isolation. Instead, you'll get a more open sound that is balanced with exterior sounds. While this may not be ideal if you're sitting at home, it's the perfect solution if you're outdoors and need to be aware of your surroundings.
So, how do these nifty little devices work? These lightweight devices don't conduct sound directly to your eardrum. Instead, they use bone conduction technology, a type of sound transmission technology that transmits sound through your earbones and your skull.
Traditional vs Open-ear Headphones
Traditional earbuds differ from open-ear headphones in important ways. Here are some key differences.
Traditional earbuds are designed to fit inside your ear canal whereas open-ear headphones sit right outside your ear canal. Open-ear headphones do not cover your ear, nor do they touch your eardrum.
For the most part, traditional earbuds block all other sounds out whereas open-ear headphones have an open design that allows you to hear external sounds.
Many users comment on the discomfort they feel after wearing earbuds for a long time. Because open-ear headphones sit above the ear, there are no similar feelings of discomfort.
Are Open-Ear Headphones Better for Your Ears?
Whether you choose open-ear headphones versus traditional earbuds will depend on your needs and preferences. However, here are some reasons open-ear headphones may be better for your ears.
Designed for Comfort
Because open-ear headphones sit above your ear canal, you won't feel the discomfort of a device pushing into your ears. This results in less ear pressure and therefore less ear fatigue.
These lightweight devices won't push against the sides of your head, either. They also have an open-back design which lets air circulate through the ear cups. They are adjustable, too, so you can customize them for the size and shape of your head.
Shokz’ OpenFit headphones offer a comfortable open-ear construction that lets you hear both your music and ambient sounds clearly. They are equipped with DirectPitch™ technology for a full audio experience including powerful bass and up to 28 hours of listening time.
These headphones weigh just about 8.3 grams. You can hardly feel you’re wearing them, especially during your activities. And, to enhance comfort, the ear cushion core comes with dual-layered liquid silicone and a dolphin arc ear hook made with flexible memory wire. This allows it to fit perfectly even for various ear shapes minimizing discomfort even during extended wear.
Eliminates Risk of Ear Infections and Irritations
Because open-ear headphones don't block your ear canal, you'll be eliminating the moisture and warmth that builds up while you're wearing earbuds. This warm, moist environment is ideal for bacteria or fungi to grow. If you're a runner who loves earbuds but worries about ear infections, you probably should make the switch to open-ear headphones.
For those who consider hygiene paramount, these devices don't touch your ear. So, if you happen to lay your open-ear headphones down on a dusty surface, then pick them up again and put them around your ear, the debris on the surface won't go directly into your ear canal.
There's the earwax issue, too. Jamming earbuds into your ear will push your earwax deeper into your ear canal. Because open-ear headphones don't go inside your ear, this isn't a problem you'll have to worry about.
Reduces Noise-Induced Hearing Damage
If you love listening to music at high volume while wearing earbuds, you may eventually suffer from noise-induced hearing damage. Open-ear headphones don't blast audio directly into your eardrums. The bone conduction technology works through vibrations, so even if you turn up your volume, your eardrums won't suffer as a result.
Safety is important too. When you're running or walking outdoors in high-traffic environments, it's important to be aware of passing vehicles. If you have earbuds that offer noise isolation, you won't be aware of oncoming hazards. Open-ear headphones let you enjoy your music while being fully aware of what's going on around you.
Shokz Openfit Open-Ear Wireless Headphones
Shokz OpenFit open-ear wireless headphones are an example of open-ear headphones that check all the right boxes. Here are some of their key features:
Lightweight Titanium Design: Shokz Openfit's lightweight titanium design is made to be comfortable, so you can wear it for hours without feeling like something heavy is pressing against your head. In addition, they wrap around your head, creating a secure and snug fit.
Open-Ear Design Promotes Safety: Because there is no noise isolation, listeners can hear the ambient sounds around them, staying aware of oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and other hazards.
Design Promotes Hygiene: Shokz Openfit open-ear wireless headphones are designed to sit above the ear, preventing moisture from building up in the ear canal. Listeners won't have to worry about ear infections or irritations.
Conclusion
If you're searching for an alternative to traditional earbuds, the above tips may help with your decision. Open-ear headphones offer a safer, healthier choice, and they are an ideal option for runners, swimmers, and outdoor enthusiasts. To find out more about the various designs offered, check out our Shokz OpenFit open ear wireless headphones.
