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With the arrival of nicer weather, it’s time to get back outside. If you’re like me then you enjoy music, podcasts, and audiobooks while out and about. One of the best ways to improve safety while listening to audio is with a bone conduction headset like the H2O Audio Tri Run.
Also: I finally found bone conduction headphones that stay on while swimming (and they sound great)
H2O Audio has several bone conduction headsets, with the new Tri Run being its most affordable for $100. This low price is compelling for bone conduction technology and after biking with it over the past few weeks, I’m convinced it’s an excellent option for anyone new to the format.
Fit and usability
There are a few key aspects I look for in bone conduction headsets for exercise: the most important being fit, battery life, and ease of control with physical buttons.
While audio quality and phone call support is important, bone conduction headsets are not typically able to provide a robust audio and call experience due to the technology being used to transmit the sound. The headset sounds clear and loud, but it just won’t have the clarity and bass of a typical in or over the ear design.
The H2O Audio Tri Run is very comfortable, with the lightweight headset completely covered in soft-touch silicone material and a flexible wire that fits around the back of a wide range of head sizes. The ear loops fit over your ears and can be worn for hours without discomfort. There are no earbud tips to fit to your ear, and the around-the-head design provides a stable platform for even the most intense exercises.
Also: Best bone conduction headphones: We’ve tested the best models for your next swim, hike, or run
For charging, it comes with a proprietary four-pin magnetic cable, but unfortunately uses a USB-A connector on one end. The Tri Run lasts for about six hours, which is good for a lightweight headset. The automated voiceover on the headset keeps you updated on the charge level.
Audio controls
Controlling audio playback is important to me as I prefer to switch songs, adjust volume, and pause on the device itself while running and biking. Thankfully, there are three distinct buttons on the bottom of the right side behind your ear with the middle button serving as the power/play/pause/answer button.
The forward and aft buttons serve to control volume and skip tracks. I was able to easily reach up to manipulate these buttons while working out. Some headsets in the past had tiny buttons or too many buttons so it was a bit frustrating to control the audio content, but thankfully all is well here with the Tri Run.
I run and bike outside all year long so in Washington State that means a lot of time outside in the rain. The Tri Run offers IPX8 water resistance so there was never any concern with rain or sweat while wearing the headset.
However, despite being waterproof, the headset is useless while swimming as Bluetooth doesn’t transmit audio underwater.
ZDNET’s buying advice
Some races limit headsets worn by runners to bone conduction only so that the runners remain aware of their surroundings. The H2O Audio Tri Run is a great option for a first pair of bone conduction headphones with that reasonable $100 price. After using them for running or biking, you may then want to explore more expensive options with more features and longer battery life.
