Running headphones have certainly evolved quickly in recent years, look no further than Suunto Wing headphones. We’ve gone from running with giant, over-the-ear Sony Walkman headsets, to the tangled cords of your iPod Shuffle, and earbuds that fall out from one drop of sweat. Today, the newest iteration of running headphone tech takes listening to audio as you workout to a new level! While bone conduction headphones have been on the market for a few years now, they are still finding their place in the market. For this review, TRR Coach Kyle Fulmer took a look at (and ran hundreds of miles with) the new Suunto Wing Open-Ear Headphones.
Key features:
- Tough and Weatherproof: These headphones are fully waterproof and dustproof (IP67 rated), making them perfect for sweaty workouts, rainy runs, or even dusty trails. The build quality feels robust, ready to handle rugged use.
- Open-Ear Bone Conduction Technology: Instead of blocking your ears like traditional headphones, they rest on your jawbone, leaving your ear canals open so you can stay aware of passing cars, wildlife, or the sounds of nature around you.
- Safety Features: Built-in red LED lights provide visibility for night runs or cycling. While the lights are a thoughtful touch, they could be brighter, so are not a substitute for headlamps and reflective gear.
- Battery Life: You get up to 10 hours of playback, plus an extra 20 hours from the included power bank. Quick charging is another bonus—just 10 minutes gives you about 3 hours of playtime.
- Comfort and Fit: At 33 grams, they’re lightweight but might not fit snugly on smaller heads. We had no issues with the fit.
- Hands-free: Forget fumbling for buttons—just nod your head to answer a call or shake it to skip a track. Suunto Wing’s hands-free operation free up your hands for activity.
- Usability: Control your audio with multi-function buttons that allow you to play/ pause tunes, adjust volume, skip and rewind tracks. You can also answer and hang up phone calls, turn on and off the lights too.
What do we like about Suunto Wing most?
Suunto Wing headphones are ultra lightweight, fit snugly, and can even be worn with glasses: a must for anyone running with sunglasses or prescription eyewear. Most importantly, the sound quality is amazing, all while still allowing outside noises to be heard.
PC: Kyle Fulmer
From personal experience, the 10 hours of battery life advertised seemed to be about right. I have run several times, chatted on the phone during walks, and listened to some podcasts while doing chores, all before needing to recharge the Wing! And with the powerbank included, you can get an extra 20 hours on the go! This makes Suunto Wing headphones a great option for runners doing the longest ultras and multiday adventures without access a power outlet.
What don’t we like about Suunto Wing headphones?
Not much, except the cost! At $199, they’re an investment (but, in my opinion, a worthwhile one). The price is easy to get over when you can change songs by just shaking your head, answer phone calls by nodding yes, and have headphones with such outstanding durability and battery life!
Additionally, it takes a few tries to memorize the functions, such as changing songs or answering a call by simply moving your head! Other buttons allow you to manage calls and adjust your audio and volume. As with any new tech, it takes a bit of time to remember all the actions but, just as they did with your phone or iPod of the past, soon all the functions become second nature!
What are the best uses for the headphones?
Running, of course! Add to that listening to tunes whilst walking the dog, vacuuming, doing the dishes, and basically during any other activity you’d like audio for. Forget being able to hear traffic when running or riding, the open-ear bone conduction technology comes in clutch when you’re parenting and want to listen to a podcast while still being able to hear when the baby wakes up!
What do the Pros say?
ON-sponsored professional trail runner and TRR Coach Genevieve Harrison also put Suunto Wing headphones to the test. Here’s what she had to say:
“For ears like mine, they’re a game-changer! Suunto Wing rest comfortably around your neck when not in use, making them super handy at aid stations. Plus, they let you stay tuned into nature while on the trail—perfect for me since I often encounter mountain bikers where I run so need to be able to hear them coming. These headphones are definitely worth a try! They’d also make an incredible gift for the runner in your life who loves staying connected to their surroundings.”
Kyle Fulmer is a coach with Team RunRun and our social media manager extraordinaire. He is an experienced trail and ultra coach and athlete based in Boulder, Colorado.