I did not expect these $100 headphones to outperform my Marshall and JBL like this

I depend on earbuds to keep my runs from feeling like a chore. This is especially so during the hot summer months, when any distraction from the heat is a necessity. When I go on longer runs, I need earbuds that can not only tolerate my copious sweat, but also not constantly remind me that I have something on my ears.

Because of the amount of sweat I produce when running, I can’t wear traditional earbuds (I’ve destroyed at least a dozen pairs), which means I have to use either bone-conducting headphones or open-air earbuds. 

Also: These $15 accessories turned my AirPods into the most versatile earbuds I’ve worn

For the longest time, I used bone-conducting headphones, but I always found the sound they produce to be less than ideal. About a year or so ago, I started using open-air earbuds and a clip-on style. Since then, I’ve not had to deal with my sweat-destroying earbuds, poor sound, or discomfort.

I’ve also tried and reviewed several different pairs, each of which had its pros and cons.

When I received the OpenRock S2 open-air earbuds<!–>, I could have been skeptical because I had never heard of the brand. However, I’ve learned that earbuds have come a very long way since their early days, so even unknown brands or inexpensive pairs can catch me by surprise.

So, I went into this review without any preconceived notions.

My experience

As is with pairing most earbuds with Android, it was only a matter of unboxing the OpenRock S2s, opening he case, pulling out the earbuds, removing the protective plastic, putting the earbuds back, and then waiting for Android to find them, which took all of twenty seconds.

–>

Once paired, I slipped the earbuds over my ears and immediately realized how comfortable they were. It’s not just the shape and design but also the weight that makes them so comfortable. These earbuds weigh only 7 grams each, so you’ll barely notice them.

<!–>

Then came the important part of the test – the music. I started out with Messuggah’s “Ligature Marks,” which was unfair of me because any song by that monstrous band can challenge the integrity of lower and mid-range earbuds and headphones. 

Instead of continuing with that band, I switched to Primus and “My Name Is Mud.” Much better. Les Claypool’s bass was present but not overwhelming, Ler’s guitar sounded more refined than I thought it would (given the price), and Herb’s drums were nice and tight. 

After “Mud,” I switched to my favorite test album, “Signals,” by Rush. This is where the OpenRock S2 earbuds didn’t exactly shine, but didn’t diminish all that much. While I found the midrange was spot on, the low end lacked some definition and the highs weren’t exactly crisp. That’s not to say the sound was bad. It’s not. 

Also: I recommend these budget earbuds over pricier Bose and Sony models – here’s why

The S2 earbuds make up for the lack of bottom and top with a fairly decent soundstage, so the instruments aren’t glommed together such that they become indistinct. If you know Rush, then you know there’s always a lot going on with their music, and the S2 earbuds didn’t muddy things to the point where it sounded more like a wall of sound than a trio of the best musicians to have ever graced rock’s stage. 

And although the low end wasn’t exactly dynamic and refined, Geddy’s bass was still very clear and agile. If you like your music more on the thumping side of things, these earbuds will disappoint. If your tastes tend to veer more toward’s accurate bass notes, the S2 earbuds will not let you down.

Also: These $60 wireless earbuds made me question my audio spending habits

The important thing to remember here is that open-air earbuds are simply not capable of producing the punchy depths as traditional “in-ear” earbuds. I’m willing to make that trade-off to avoid destroying yet another pair with my evil, Xenomorphic sweat.

ZDNET’s buying advice

If you’re active and are looking for a pair of earbuds you can wear all day (or at least during longer activities), the Openrock S2 open-air earbuds–>