Chapter 1: Introduction

Recently, I faced a setback when I dislocated my jaw, which prompted me to revisit open-ear headphones. My jaw issues stem from TMJ disorder, which also accompanies mild tinnitus, or a ringing sensation in my ears. This has driven my quest for headphones that deliver excellent sound while being comfortable enough to wear without exacerbating my symptoms.

I've experimented with various headphones over the years, favoring over-ear options like Beats Studio3 and AirPods Max for their immersive sound. However, such models often apply pressure on my jaw—particularly where the dislocation occurred. During my recovery, I found it difficult to even think about over-ear headphones without feeling discomfort.

Before my accident, I had been documenting a comparison of different earbuds, having started with Google's Pixel Buds Pro and concluding with a tie between the AirPods Pro 2 and Soundcore's Space A40. While earbuds are generally kinder to my TMJ than over-ear models, they can still become uncomfortable over prolonged listening sessions. This led me back to the idea of open-ear headphones, which would allow for a comfortable listening experience without blocking out my surroundings.

Now, I have a few open-ear headphones. My go-to pair has been Shokz's bone-conduction OpenRun headphones, formerly known as Aeropex. Although I appreciate their design, they haven't completely met my expectations. Additionally, I own Bose Frames with prescription lenses, but they often cause headaches, and their battery life leaves much to be desired.

I've also tried Bose's Open Sport earbuds, which feature uncomfortable plastic ear loops, and Sony's LinkBuds, which sound great but are hard to fit comfortably. I even attempted using JLab speakers that attach to glasses, but they lacked sound quality and stability.

As I contemplated my options, I recalled Oladance's Wearable Stereo, which I first saw in an Unbox Therapy video. Intrigued, I finally ordered them while recovering at home, hopeful they might fill the gap that Shokz left unmet.

Chapter 2: Pricing and Overview

The Shokz OpenRun headphones were initially priced around $159, but they are now available for approximately $129. They come in various colors and sizes to ensure a proper fit. The package includes a carrying bag and a charging cable, though it appears only one cable is included now, down from two when I purchased mine.

On the other hand, Oladance's Wearable Stereo originally retailed for $179, but they can now be found for about $149, with discounts lowering the price to $119 on Amazon. They come with a compact carrying case and are available in multiple color options. The headphones charge via USB-C, and there’s an option for a battery case that provides a staggering 94 hours of total playtime.

Video Description: A comparison of Oladance OWS Sports and Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones, highlighting their features and performance.

Chapter 3: Design and Comfort

Shokz OpenRun headphones feature a headband design that sits behind the head, with curved hooks resting over the ears. They are comfortable for extended wear, with a soft rubber coating enhancing the experience. However, they can slip a bit under the arms of glasses, and wearing them to bed is not ideal due to the headband's positioning.

In contrast, the Oladance Wearable Stereo resembles the OpenRun but lacks a connecting headband. Instead, they have separate modules that sit in front of the ears and hooks that rest behind the earlobes. While they feel a bit loose initially, they remain secure during regular activities.

With Oladance, you won’t experience the vibrations associated with bone conduction, making them more suitable for prolonged listening without headaches. The touch controls are a welcomed feature, allowing for effortless operation, although they can be overly sensitive at times.

Chapter 4: Sound Quality

Upon trying the Oladance Wearable Stereo, I was pleasantly surprised by their sound quality. While I didn't expect them to rival my AirPods Pro 2, they exceeded my expectations, particularly in terms of clarity and bass. The Shokz OpenRun, while decent, lacked the depth of sound due to its bone-conduction design.

In testing, I compared both headphones while listening to "For the Glory" by Kin Palo, a track with a good balance of sound elements. The Oladance headphones delivered an impressive audio experience, providing clarity and richness that Shokz simply couldn't match.

Video Description: A detailed review of Oladance OWS Pro vs. Shokz OpenFit headphones, focusing on sound performance.

Chapter 5: Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is another area where Oladance shines, boasting up to 16 hours of use per charge, compared to Shokz's 8 hours. Charging is done via USB-C, which is more convenient than Shokz's proprietary cable. The option for a battery case with Oladance further extends usage significantly, making it perfect for travel.

Chapter 6: Conclusion

Open-ear headphones cater to a niche market, and while they may not suit everyone, the Oladance Wearable Stereo stands out as the best option I've encountered. They offer excellent sound quality, remarkable comfort, and impressive battery life—all without causing discomfort to my TMJ. While I still use my AirPods Pro 2 for in-ear listening, the Oladance headphones have become my preferred choice for enjoyable audio without compromising comfort.