Review – OpenRock S2 Open-Ear Headphones for Cycling

The OpenRock S2 is a set of open-ear headphones that delivers on all fronts. These open-ear, hook-clip earbuds are designed to give cyclists—and all active users—a high-quality sound experience without sacrificing awareness or comfort. After a few weeks of riding with them, I am convinced that they are one of the best open-ear headphones I have tested to date.

Lightweight Design

Weighing in at the lowest end of its class, the OpenRock S2 is a masterclass in minimalism. Thanks to an ultra-fine titanium wire construction and a smart 3-point ergonomic support system (ear rim, ear clip, and ear wheel), the S2 rests on your ears very naturally. The design is both firm and feather-light, staying securely in place during aggressive rides, sprints, and rapid head turns.

A “20° golden angle” optimizes the tilt of the earbuds to match your ear canal's natural curve, making for a truly universal fit. Unlike traditional in-ears, these do not require frequent adjustments and never cause ear fatigue—crucial for long-distance rides.

Stay Aware, Stay Safe

The open-ear design of the OpenRock S2 is the only choice for cycling headphones, in my opinion. Rather than sealing off the ear canal, the S2's acoustic chamber directs sound toward the ear while keeping ambient noise accessible. Whether you're navigating traffic or cruising through trails, you stay tuned into your surroundings without compromising on sound quality.

Big Sound in a Compact Form

Don't let the lightweight build fool you—OpenRock has put great effort into tuning the S2's audio. Featuring BassDirect™ Technology and a unique chamber design, the earbuds deliver rich bass and crisp highs. The sound hole has been calibrated for optimal alignment with your ear canal, ensuring clarity and punch with minimal noise leakage.

Built to Handle Sweat, Dust, and Distance

With IPX5 water resistance, the S2 is ready for perspiration and precipitation. The earbuds feature a triple water resistance approach that combines material choice (TPU and liquid silicone), smart chambering, and angled construction to prevent moisture buildup and internal damage. During testing, they stayed dry and stable through intense summer rides and downpours.

Power That Keeps Up

With up to 32 hours of playtime (including the charging case), the OpenRock S2 is ready for multi-day tours or long commutes without constant recharging. For most users, that translates to about a week of use before reaching for the charger—impressive for such a lightweight device.

Final Thoughts

The OpenRock S2 combines ergonomics and impressive audio into a sleek, minimalist design. Whether you are climbing hills, bombing descents, or just rolling to work; they give you the sound of freedom—without blocking out the world around you.

>> Shop the OpenRock S2 Open-Ear Headphones (15% off with code 'Life')

Disclaimer: OneOdio provided a set of OpenRock S2 Headphones for testing and review on the blog