Many swimmers search for alternatives to Shokz OpenSwim headphones that allow streaming music. This guide explains the available options.
Shokz OpenSwim headphones are among the most popular swimming headphones available today. The headset uses bone conduction technology to deliver sound through the swimmer’s cheekbones, allowing audio playback underwater.
However, many swimmers searching for Shokz headphones are actually looking for something slightly different.
They want a way to stream music while swimming.
The Limitation of Shokz OpenSwim
Shokz OpenSwim headphones rely on internal music storage.
To use them, swimmers must transfer MP3 files from a computer to the headset before swimming.
This approach works well for swimmers who already have a music library stored locally.
However, many swimmers today rely on streaming services such as Spotify or Apple Music rather than downloaded files.
Why Streaming Is Difficult Underwater
The main reason streaming has been difficult underwater is Bluetooth technology.
Bluetooth signals do not travel well through water, which means smartphones cannot maintain a stable connection with headphones underwater.
For many years this limitation made streaming music in the pool impossible.
New Alternatives to Shokz OpenSwim
New underwater audio systems have been developed that solve the Bluetooth problem.
Instead of using Bluetooth underwater, these systems use radio signals transmitted from a device outside the pool.
Two examples include:
- Zygo
- Rayofi SwimComm
These systems allow swimmers to stream music directly from their phones.
Rayofi SwimComm as an Alternative
Rayofi SwimComm uses a transmitter connected to the swimmer’s phone. The transmitter sends an FM radio signal to the swimmer’s headset in the water.
Because FM signals travel well through water, swimmers can stream music and podcasts directly from their phones while swimming.
The headset can also be used outside the water thanks to built-in Bluetooth functionality.
