By Madeline LawsonUpdated November 2026
Bone conduction headphones underwater are built for a narrow but demanding job: sending sound through your cheekbones while your ears are sealed with water. Swimmers, triathletes and people who run or cycle in wet weather all look for this type of headset, and most shoppers want to know one thing first: will it keep working once it goes under the surface? This guide compares six models from the current listing set. Selection was based on published specifications, brand reputation and common patterns in owner feedback. Nothing here comes from our own lab or in-water testing.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallSwimming Headphones with 32GB Memory, AI Music Generation 8H Playtime,View on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for long swim sessionsOpen Ear Earbuds with 32GB Memory, Switch to MP3 Mode Underwater, AI MView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for water sports with IP68 ratingSHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Open-Ear MP3 Headphones, Grey, IP68 Waterproof, 32GB MP3View on Amazon - 4
Best budget pickSwimming Headphones/Earbuds, Bluetooth 6.0 & MP3 with 32GB Memory IP68View on Amazon - 5
Best hybrid bone and air audioOpen-Ear Hybrid Bone & Air Audio, Enhanced Bass, 32GB MP3 Storage, UndView on Amazon - 6
Best for cycling and running in rainCXK Bone Conduction Headphones IPX8 Waterproof Swimming Headphones, BlView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| PSIER Swimming Headphones with 32GB Memory | Overall swimming and running use | IPX8 waterproof with 32GB MP3 mode |
| PSIER Open Ear Earbuds with 32GB Memory | Long swim sessions | Switches to MP3 mode underwater, 8-hour playtime |
| SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro | Water sports with a high dust and water rating | IP68 rating and 32GB MP3 storage |
| Beige Orange IP68 Swimming Headphones | Budget-minded swimmers | IP68 rating with Bluetooth 6.0 and MP3 mode |
| Abyss Black Hybrid Bone Conduction Headphones | Mixed use on land and in the pool | Hybrid bone and air audio with enhanced bass |
| CXK Bone Conduction Headphones | Cycling and running in wet weather | IPX8 waterproofing and 12-hour listed playtime |
PSIER Swimming Headphones with 32GB Memory, AI Music Generation 8H Playtime, Bluetooth 6.0 Open Ear Headphones for Running PSIER Bone Conduction Headphones, IPX8 Waterproof MP3 Mode for Underwater
Swimming Headphones with 32GB Memory, AI Music Generation 8H Playtime, Bluetooth 6.0 Open Ear Headphones for Running PSIER Bone Conduction Headphones, IPX8 Waterproof MP3 Mode for Underwater
Best for: Overall swimming and running use
This model suits swimmers who want a single headset for the pool and the road. Its IPX8 rating and built-in MP3 mode mean you can keep listening when Bluetooth signal drops in water.
Key specs
- IPX8 waterproof rating
- 32GB built-in memory
- Bluetooth 6.0
- MP3 mode for underwater playback
Pros
- Wireless Bluetooth for land use and MP3 for water
- Large onboard storage for offline playlists
- Open-ear design leaves ear canals free for safety
Cons
- Bluetooth range in water is limited, so MP3 mode is the practical choice there
- Fit varies with head shape; owners often recommend trying a few sizes of ear hook
Bottom line: A good first pick for swimmers who also run, and who want one headset for both.
PSIER Open Ear Earbuds with 32GB Memory, Switch to MP3 Mode Underwater, AI Music Generation, 8H Playtime Bluetooth 6.0 for Running PSIER Bone Conduction Headphones, IPX8 Waterproof Swimming Headphones
Open Ear Earbuds with 32GB Memory, Switch to MP3 Mode Underwater, AI Music Generation, 8H Playtime Bluetooth 6.0 for Running PSIER Bone Conduction Headphones, IPX8 Waterproof Swimming Headphones
Best for: Long swim sessions
This variant is aimed at people who spend extended time in the pool and want a clear switch between Bluetooth and MP3 playback. The listed 8-hour playtime is the main draw for longer workouts.
Key specs
- IPX8 waterproof rating
- 32GB memory
- Bluetooth 6.0
- Listed playtime of about 8 hours
Pros
- Clear mode switch for water use
- Listed battery life suits long sessions
- Open-ear design for awareness on land
Cons
- Battery figures are manufacturer claims and vary with volume
- Some owners report needing to adjust fit for a secure seal on the cheek
Bottom line: Best for swimmers who train for an hour or more and want uninterrupted MP3 playback.
SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Open-Ear MP3 Headphones, Grey, IP68 Waterproof, 32GB MP3
IP68 waterproof; Bluetooth + 32GB MP3 modes; Vivid underwater sound; 9H battery; Swimming/Water sports SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Open-Ear MP3 Headphones, Grey, IP68 Waterproof, 32GB MP3
Best for: Water sports with IP68 rating
SHOKZ is one of the best-known names in bone conduction, and the OpenSwim Pro line is designed specifically for swimming. The IP68 rating is a higher standard for submersion than IPX8, which suits people who dive, surf or paddle in rougher conditions.
Key specs
- IP68 waterproof rating
- 32GB MP3 storage
- Bluetooth and MP3 modes
- Listed battery life of about 9 hours
Pros
- IP68 rating for demanding water activities
- Brand with a long track record in bone conduction
- Both Bluetooth and MP3 modes in one unit
Cons
- Typically positioned as a premium option
- Owners sometimes mention tuning the fit with the included accessories
Bottom line: The right choice for people who want a well-known brand and a higher ingress rating for open-water sports.
Swimming Headphones/Earbuds, Bluetooth 6.0 & MP3 with 32GB Memory IP68 Waterproof Bone Conduction Headphones, Underwater Open Ear Headphones-Beige Orange
Swimming Headphones/Earbuds, Bluetooth 6.0 & MP3 with 32GB Memory IP68 Waterproof Bone Conduction Headphones, Underwater Open Ear Headphones-Beige Orange
Best for: Budget-minded swimmers
This model combines an IP68 rating with Bluetooth and MP3 modes at a lower positioning than the premium options in this list. It fits people who swim a few times a week and want a capable headset without a large outlay.
Key specs
- IP68 waterproof rating
- 32GB memory
- Bluetooth 6.0
- Bone conduction with open-ear design
Pros
- IP68 rating at a budget-friendly position
- MP3 mode for underwater playback
- Lightweight open-ear fit
Cons
- Less brand history than the best-known names
- Audio detail in water is generally modest compared with premium models
Bottom line: A sensible pick for casual pool swimmers who want IP68 protection without premium pricing.
Open-Ear Hybrid Bone & Air Audio, Enhanced Bass, 32GB MP3 Storage, Underwater Use, Bluetooth 6.0 for Running, Abyss Black Bone Conduction Headphones, IPX8 Waterproof Swimming Headphones, Std.
Open-Ear Hybrid Bone & Air Audio, Enhanced Bass, 32GB MP3 Storage, Underwater Use, Bluetooth 6.0 for Running, Abyss Black Bone Conduction Headphones, IPX8 Waterproof Swimming Headphones, Std.
Best for: Mixed use on land and in the pool
The hybrid design combines bone conduction with conventional air-conduction audio, which many listeners find fuller in the bass. It suits people who alternate between pool laps and gym or street use and want richer sound on land.
Key specs
- Hybrid bone and air audio
- IPX8 waterproof rating
- 32GB MP3 storage
- Bluetooth 6.0
Pros
- Enhanced bass compared with pure bone conduction
- Works underwater in MP3 mode
- Good for mixed indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- Hybrid designs can be heavier than pure bone conduction units
- Some owners find the air-conduction part reduces the open feel
Bottom line: For people who want deeper bass and do not mind a slightly more compact fit, this is a strong mixed-use option.
CXK Bone Conduction Headphones IPX8 Waterproof Swimming Headphones, Bluetooth 6.0 Underwater Wireless Headphones MP3 Mode, Built-in Memory & 12H Playtime, Open Earbuds Secure Fit for Running, Cycling
CXK Bone Conduction Headphones IPX8 Waterproof Swimming Headphones, Bluetooth 6.0 Underwater Wireless Headphones MP3 Mode, Built-in Memory & 12H Playtime, Open Earbuds Secure Fit for Running, Cycling
Best for: Cycling and running in wet weather
Listed playtime of 12 hours and a secure-fit design make this model a reasonable choice for riders and runners who face rain and sweat as well as occasional pool sessions. Its IPX8 rating covers submersion, so it can handle heavy splashing.
Key specs
- IPX8 waterproof rating
- Built-in memory with MP3 mode
- Bluetooth 6.0
- Listed playtime of about 12 hours
Pros
- Long listed battery life
- Designed with a secure fit for movement
- MP3 mode for underwater use
Cons
- Battery claims depend on volume and mode
- Brand recognition is lower than the best-established names
Bottom line: A practical choice for athletes who need weather resistance and a long battery across several activities.
Buying Guide
Waterproof rating (IPX8 vs. IP68)
The two codes measure different things. The first digit covers solid particles, and the second covers water. IPX8 means the device can be submerged beyond 1 meter for a period the manufacturer specifies. IP68 is a stricter rating for dust as well as water. For pool swimming, IPX8 is usually enough. For surf, dives or dusty trail-and-water combinations, look for IP68 and check the depth the maker lists.
Good picks for this: SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro, Beige Orange IP68 Swimming Headphones
Underwater audio mode (Bluetooth vs. MP3)
Bluetooth signals struggle to pass through water, so most underwater bone conduction headsets rely on preloaded MP3 files. Check how much storage is listed and whether the device switches modes with a single button. Load your playlists before you enter the water, since files usually cannot be changed mid-session.
Good picks for this: PSIER Swimming Headphones with 32GB Memory, PSIER Open Ear Earbuds with 32GB Memory
Battery life and charging
Manufacturers list battery life under specific conditions, often at moderate volume and with a single mode. Expect real-world times to be shorter in MP3 mode at high volume. Charge fully before a long swim, dry the charging contacts, and never charge a wet device. Follow the maker’s charging instructions to protect the battery.
Good picks for this: CXK Bone Conduction Headphones, PSIER Open Ear Earbuds with 32GB Memory
Fit and head size
Bone conduction works only when the transducers rest firmly against the cheekbone. Too loose and the sound thins out; too tight and it can be uncomfortable. Many owners report that a snug but not pinching hook fit works best. Try the device with and without a swim cap, since caps change how the band sits.
Good picks for this: PSIER Swimming Headphones with 32GB Memory, Abyss Black Hybrid Bone Conduction Headphones
Audio quality and bass
Pure bone conduction tends to sound lighter in the bass because it does not move much air into the ear canal. Hybrid designs add conventional audio drivers to fill out the low end. If you mostly listen to podcasts or training cues, a pure bone conduction unit is often sufficient. If you want music with more punch, a hybrid is worth considering.
Good picks for this: Abyss Black Hybrid Bone Conduction Headphones, SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro
Durability and care
Rinse the headset with fresh water after saltwater or chlorinated use, and dry the ports before charging. Avoid storing the device in hot cars or direct sun. Check the seals around the charging port periodically, and replace any worn cable or cover that the manufacturer sells separately.
Good picks for this: SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro, CXK Bone Conduction Headphones
Use case and safety on the water
Open-ear design keeps the ear canal clear, which matters when you need to hear boat traffic, lifeguard whistles or other swimmers. Lower the volume outdoors and keep an eye on surroundings at all times. Never rely on any headset as a substitute for supervision in open water.
Good picks for this: PSIER Open Ear Earbuds with 32GB Memory, CXK Bone Conduction Headphones
FAQ
Do bone conduction headphones work underwater?
Yes, but only models with a suitable waterproof rating and an MP3 mode. Bluetooth signals are blocked by water, so underwater playback usually depends on files stored on the device.
What is the difference between IPX8 and IP68?
IPX8 covers protection against water submersion beyond a depth the manufacturer specifies. IP68 adds dust protection and is generally a stricter rating. Check the maker’s stated depth and duration.
Can I use Bluetooth while swimming?
In most cases, no. Water blocks the Bluetooth signal. Use the MP3 mode with preloaded tracks instead.
How do I keep bone conduction headphones in place while swimming?
Use a snug fit around the ear, check that the transducers sit on the cheekbone, and try them with your swim cap on. Many owners report that a slight adjustment of the hook makes a noticeable difference.
How should I clean bone conduction headphones after swimming?
Rinse with fresh water, dry the surface and charging ports, and let the unit air-dry away from direct heat. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for seals and covers.
Are bone conduction headphones safe for hearing?
They leave the ear canal open, which many people find more comfortable for awareness. Keeping volume at a moderate level is still advisable. For specific medical concerns, consult a hearing professional or audiologist.
Conclusion
For most swimmers, the PSIER Swimming Headphones with 32GB Memory offers a balanced mix of waterproofing, MP3 storage and land use. If you swim for long sessions, the PSIER Open Ear Earbuds with 32GB Memory lists a useful battery life. Water sports enthusiasts who want the highest listed ingress rating should look at the SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro. The Beige Orange IP68 model suits budget-minded swimmers, the Abyss Black Hybrid appeals to people who want richer bass, and the CXK model fits cyclists and runners who face wet conditions. Check the waterproof rating, storage and fit before you buy.
Sources
- Water safety and swimming guidance for staying safe around water (cdc.gov)
- Background on hearing health and how the ear processes sound (nidcd.nih.gov)
- Workplace noise and hearing protection basics (osha.gov)
Related reading
- Top 7 Bone Conduction Open-Ear Headphones Compareds for Every Need
- Raycon Bone Conduction Headphones: Fit, Features and How to Choose
- Raycon Bone Conduction Headphones Charger: 6 Best Replacement Cables of 2026
- Openear Bone Conduction Headphones: A Step-by-Step Buyer's Guide
About Madeline Lawson
Madeline has been writing about headphone tech & types for this site, with an eye on clear explanations, honest trade-offs and options for different needs and budgets.
