How we chose
We prioritized headphones designed for repeated submersion rather than ordinary water-resistant earbuds. Every selection has an IPX8, IP68 or stronger rating and onboard storage, because a phone or smartwatch cannot maintain a dependable Bluetooth connection through water. We also considered control accessibility, battery life, fit with goggles or a swim cap, file support and how easily tracks can be transferred.
Sound quality was judged in the context of swimming. Bone-conduction headsets rarely provide the deep bass or fine detail of conventional earbuds, but they can sound surprisingly clear once submerged. A secure fit and controls that can be located by touch matter more in the pool than audiophile tuning.
Best for most swimmers: Shokz OpenSwim Pro
The OpenSwim Pro is the most versatile option here. Its onboard player handles pool sessions, while Bluetooth makes it useful for running, commuting and gym workouts on dry land. The 32GB capacity is substantially more generous than older swim players, providing room for long playlists and podcast backlogs.
Its open-ear frame works particularly well with goggles and does not require a watertight earbud seal. The main caveat is that Bluetooth mode remains a dry-land feature; swimmers must switch to stored files before entering the water.
A simpler pool-first choice: Shokz OpenSwim
Swimmers who do not need Bluetooth can save money with the original OpenSwim. It is light, uncomplicated and purpose-built for playing locally stored audio during laps. The smaller 4GB library is still sufficient for hundreds of compressed songs, although frequent podcast listeners may find themselves replacing files often.
Its wraparound design stays stable during flip turns, and the physical buttons are easier to operate with wet hands than touch controls. Proprietary charging and limited file organization are its most noticeable compromises.
Best value: NANK Runner Diver2 Pro
The Runner Diver2 Pro combines a large offline library with both Bluetooth and local playback at a price typically below the Shokz flagship. It is a practical option for swimmers who also want open-ear headphones for cycling or running.
The headset offers ample endurance for several workouts, but its controls and companion experience are less polished than Shokz's. Fit can also vary more with head shape, so it is worth checking the retailer's return policy.
Best goggle-mounted option: H2O Audio SONAR PRO
Rather than wrapping around the back of the head, the SONAR PRO clips onto swim-goggle straps and conducts sound through the cheekbones. This arrangement works well under a cap and avoids a band competing for space behind the head.
Its Playlist+ feature can record audio from supported streaming playback for later underwater listening, providing an alternative to managing only conventional music files. Setup has more steps than dragging MP3s onto a basic player, but it can be worthwhile for swimmers invested in streaming services.
Best in-ear design: Sony NW-WS623
Sony's long-running waterproof Walkman uses sealed in-ear tips instead of bone conduction. That gives it fuller, more conventional sound when the correct swimming tips create a secure seal. It is also rated for saltwater use, making it appealing to open-water swimmers.
The tradeoff is reduced environmental awareness and a more seal-dependent fit. The swimming ear tips also soften treble, while the modest 4GB capacity feels limited beside newer competitors. Even so, it remains one of the stronger choices for buyers who dislike bone-conduction sound.
