For Mathieu Blanchard, ultra-trail running is about more than performance—it is about exploration, resilience, and staying open to the world around him. This mindset closely reflects the philosophy behind Shokz and the idea of "Be Open." Whether he is training in the French Alps or racing across extreme environments, being aware of his surroundings is a key part of how he runs.

Throughout his career, Mathieu has competed in some of the most demanding races in the world, including UTMB Mont-Blanc, Diagonale des Fous, and the Yukon Arctic Ultra. In these conditions, traditional headphones can limit awareness and comfort. That is why he chooses Shokz Open-Ear Sports Headphones, powered by bone conduction technology, allowing him to listen to music while keeping his ears open to the environment.

This technology solves an important challenge for trail runners: staying safe and focused while still enjoying motivation through sound. For Mathieu, it means hearing the terrain, other runners, and the natural world around him while maintaining performance during long endurance efforts.

The durability and lightweight titanium frame of Shokz headphones, such as the OpenRun Pro 2, also make them ideal for extreme races and long training sessions. From elite competition to everyday outdoor training, Shokz supports Mathieu's journey as he continues to push boundaries and inspire the global trail running community.