H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro bone conducting headphones Review

For athletes who refuse to be tethered, finding audio gear that transitions seamlessly from land to water has always been a challenge. The H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro aims to solve this dilemma, offering a single device for both your morning swim and your afternoon run. It’s a compelling promise of true multi-sport versatility in a sleek, bone-conducting package.

The core of the Tri 2 Pro’s performance lies in its dual-mode functionality. Out of the water, it operates as a standard pair of Bluetooth 5.0 bone conduction headphones. Audio quality is characteristic of the technology: mids and highs are clear, making podcasts and vocals perfectly intelligible, but the low-end bass is present rather than powerful. This is an inherent trade-off for the open-ear design, which keeps you aware of your surroundings—a critical safety feature for runners and cyclists. Submerge them in the pool, and the magic happens. A long press of a button switches the device to its internal 8GB MP3 player, as Bluetooth signals cannot penetrate water. Underwater, the audio experience transforms, feeling richer and more immersive, especially when using the included earplugs to block out ambient water noise. Microphone quality is serviceable for taking quick calls in quiet environments, but it struggles against wind and significant background noise.

H2O Audio nailed the design for multi-sport use. The headphones are constructed around a flexible and lightweight titanium band coated in soft, matte silicone. This results in a fit that is both secure and remarkably comfortable, applying just enough clamping force to stay put during vigorous activity without causing pressure points over extended wear. The IPX8 waterproof rating is the star of the show, guaranteeing safe submersion in up to 12 feet of water. The onboard controls consist of three physical buttons that handle power, volume, mode switching, and track navigation. While functional, they are somewhat small and can be a bit fiddly to operate with wet fingers or while in motion, requiring a deliberate press to register.

The standout feature is undoubtedly the integrated music player, which liberates you from needing a phone for your workouts, especially in the water. Loading music is a straightforward, if slightly dated, drag-and-drop process via the proprietary magnetic USB cable that also handles charging. While simple, it’s a far cry from the convenience of modern streaming services. Battery life is respectable, delivering around five to six hours of playback on a single charge, which is more than enough for several workouts. The magnetic charging connection is secure and easy to attach, but its proprietary nature means you’ll need to be careful not to lose the specific cable it requires.

The H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro presents a strong value proposition for a very specific user. It’s not trying to compete with audiophile-grade earbuds, nor is it the cheapest bone conduction option on the market. Instead, it carves out a niche for swimmers, triathletes, and anyone who wants a single, durable audio solution for both land-based training and aquatic sessions. When compared to rivals like the Shokz OpenSwim, which is a dedicated swimming MP3 player without Bluetooth, the Tri 2 Pro’s dual-mode versatility is its key differentiator and justifies its position in the market.

Ultimately, the H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro is a purpose-built tool that excels at its intended function. It’s the ideal audio companion for the dedicated swimmer or triathlete who wants the convenience of Bluetooth for their runs and gym sessions, combined with the absolute necessity of an internal MP3 player for their time in the pool. While audiophiles will find the sound wanting and some may find the file-transfer process archaic, athletes who prioritize situational awareness, comfort, and true waterproof performance will find it an indispensable piece of training gear.

Where to Buy:

Check it out on Amazon