As a frequent runner and gym-goer, I have been looking for a headset that would suit my needs for a while.
It being Bluetooth was, of course, the key point: getting all tangled up in a wire during a run is one of the worst feelings an athlete can experience (although this might be a slight exaggeration)
I also needed it to be somewhat waterproof – Singapore is a great playground for runners, as long as they are not afraid of getting sweaty.. or drenched.
Finally, I needed to stay in place – most of the wireless headsets’ earplugs are not adapted to small ears like mine and won’t stay in for an extended period of time.
After testing some products from Jabra and other brands and listening to my ultra-running friends’ recommendations, I decided to go ahead with the Aeropex from Aftershokz. Here is my honest review, after more than a year of using it daily.
What are bone conduction earphones?
What convinced me to buy them, apart from the design itself, was the use of interesting technology – Bone conduction, which allows the earphones to sit ON your ears, rather than going in, like more traditional models.
The 2 most noticeable advantages of this are:
1. Safety – as it doesn’t isolate you from the outside sounds, you can run/walk/cycle with them without putting yourself at risk of an accident due to something you hadn’t heard coming.
2. Great for people with hearing difficulties – as it doesn’t rely solely on the eardrums, people with impaired hearing can get a better experience than with normal earphones.
More information about bone conduction headphones and how they work here.
This model from Aftershockz is, of course, not the only one available on the market based on this technology – but it is the main brand commercializing it in Singapore, meaning you can go to a shop and give it a try to see if you like it or not.
Pros of the Aftershokz Aeropex:
- perfect for outdoor sports – the bone conduction system allows the user to stay aware of their surroundings while getting a great audio experience
- sweat & rainproof
- Very light yet not fragile at all
- fits every head
- The battery can last & recharging it takes less than 2hrs
- The in-built microphone is very decent and allows to take phone calls – but the lack of noise-cancellation makes it difficult to have a call outdoor, especially near busy roads.
Cons of the Aftershockz Aeropex:
- No noise-cancellation functionality (simply because they don’t get into your ears). However, they come with internal earplugs you can use along with the headset – which can come in handy in a crowded & noisy environment such as the gym.
- Within 14 months of usage, I had to fill a warranty claim twice – the charger had stopped working properly, and the battery life was down to a few hours.
However, Singapore’s warranty service is very responsive, efficient and offered an immediate solution both times. Aftershokz products are covered by a 2year warranty, which makes them a safe bet.
So, should you buy the Aeropex earset from Aftershockz?
YES
If you are looking for very light yet sturdy running/cycling earphones that won’t move during your sessions.
NO
If you need noise-cancellation, or if you intend to swim with your new earphones.
Last thoughts:
Overall, one of my best sports-related purchases of 2019 – I can’t spend a single day without using it, and I would happily recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable headset to run, cycle or go to the gym.
If you are looking for a more technical review, TechRadar has published an extensive article about those – check it out!
Where to buy Aftershokz Aeropex in Singapore:
Stereo – 68, #04-06 Orchard Rd, Plaza Singapura, 238839
MobyShop – 14 #02-52 Scotts Road, Far East Plaza, 228213