Why Zygo’s Latest Underwater Bone Conduction Headphones Are A Game-changer For Swimmers

Zygo claims to solve one of swimming’s biggest limitations: listening to audio underwater. We put the headphones to the test

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As someone who grew up as a competitive swimmer, the idea of streaming music while training would have felt completely out of the realm of possibility (because years ago, it was). Music pre-loaded on underwater devices first came on the scene to all bored swimmers’ delight, but now, Zygo has taken entertainment to the next level with its patented underwater Bluetooth speakers.

We recently tested Zygo’s latest Z2 Waterproof Headphones ($329), which allow you to stream music, audiobooks, podcasts or audio from other apps straight from your phone via a charging case that doubles as a transmitter. The headphones loop around the back of your head, over or under a swim cap, and use bone conduction technology to deliver sound. They come with the case/transmitter, a pair of earplugs and a charging cable, and they’re also HSA/FSA-eligible.

Keep reading below for our honest review of the Zygo Z2 headphones (which landed on Time magazine’s Best Inventions of 2022 list) and how they compare to Shokz and H2O Audio’s waterproof offerings.

Zygo Z2 Waterproof Headphones Review: Pros & Cons

Zygo Z2 Waterproof Headphones Review: The Bottom Line

For swimmers who want to stream music, podcasts and other audio, and have the ability to get one-way communication with a coach, the Zygo Z2 waterproof headphones are worth the investment.

Zygo Z2 Waterproof Headphones Review: The Setup Process

I decided to put the Zygo headphones to the test with a swim at a local lap pool. Before my swim, I charged the device and brought the entire case to the pool. Compared to competitors like H2O Audio, which is limited to only streaming pre-loaded music, you’ll be carrying a little more to the pool with Zygo due to the size of the transmitter/charging case. It still comfortably fits in a gym bag, though, and is subtle enough on the pool deck that other swimmers did not bat an eye when I tucked it against the wall.

Once I took a few steps to pair the headphones with the case and get the Bluetooth going, it was smooth sailing (swimming?) from there.

Zygo Z2 Waterproof Headphones Review: Sound Quality, Fit & Battery Life

Zygo’s streaming quality is great, particularly when paired with earplugs. It is on par with other underwater devices, just don’t expect Bose QuietComfort-level audio. I had no issues with static or dropouts, and the music stayed consistent throughout my entire swim. The transmitter case can stream across an entire Olympic-length pool (roughly 50 meters) and up to 2 to 3 feet below the water surface, while your phone can be up to 30 feet away from the case.

The headphones have a snug fit and come in two sizes: Standard (for heads with ear-to-ear distances of 28.5cm or under) and Large. Even after aggressive flip turns, mine stayed put lap after lap. Zygo has a noticeably firmer structure than competitors, which I’ve found to be more flexible and bendable.

Zygo Z2 battery life is roughly 6 hours per charge, which is more than enough for most swim sessions or even multiple workouts between charges.

Zygo Z2 Waterproof Headphones Review: Using the App & Lap Counter

Zygo went a step further and solved what was long the bane of many swimmers’ training sessions: counting laps. In the free version of the app, you can view your immediate lap count.

If you pay for a Zygo subscription, you can save historical swims and even access audio classes, coaching sessions and a walkie-talkie, which allows someone on the pool deck to speak directly to a swimmer while in the water. Perfect for coaches, parents or training partners, this feature has the potential to save some voices from pool deck shouting and allow for live coaching cues mid-lap.

Zygo Z2 Waterproof Headphones vs. Shokz & H2O Audio: Price & Features Comparison

The Zygo Z2 waterproof bone conduction headphones retail $329 and includes the headset and the transmitter/charging case. The optional app subscription is $14.99, or $120 per year for a discounted annual plan.

While the Z2 is more expensive than alternatives such as H2O Audio ($199) and Shokz OpenSwim Pro ($179.95), Zygo remains the only option on the market that streams audio in real time underwater. For an extra $130-150, unlocking the ability to change your audio at-will is worth it to me, particularly as someone who listens to new podcasts or music while working out.

Zygo Z2 Waterproof Headphones Review: The Final Verdict

If you swim often and love listening to music during workouts, Zygo’s Z2 waterproof headphones can level up your workout with unprecedented streaming capabilities. The ability to stream music, podcasts and even live coaching cues mid-lap brings an entirely new dimension to swimming.

Buy the Zygo Z2 headphones for $329 online at shopzygo.com.

Zygo Z2 Waterproof Headphones Specifications:

• Price: $329
• App subscription price (optional): $14.99/mo. or $120/year
• Bluetooth streaming range: Up to 100 meters away at 2-3 feet below surface
• Battery life: Maximum 6 hours
• Included accessories: 1 headset, 1 charging case/transmitter, 1 pair of earplugs, 1 USB-C charging cable
• Warranty: One year; 30-day satisfaction guarantee
• HSA/FSA eligible: Yes

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