Shokz has unveiled its lightest OpenFit earhook earbuds yet, replacing touch controls with pressure-sensitive buttons designed to prevent sweat, rain and stray hair from accidentally interrupting playback.

The OpenFit Air 2 weighs 7.2 grams per earbud, down from 8.7 grams for the original OpenFit Air. Its redesigned charging case is also 10.5% smaller, while the complete package is 17.6% lighter.

Shokz has fitted the earbuds with a flexible 0.75mm nickel-titanium frame and redesigned earhook intended to remain secure during workouts.

Unlike conventional in-ear buds, the OpenFit Air 2 sits outside the ear canal, allowing users to remain aware of traffic and their surroundings.

The biggest usability change is the move from touch controls to pressure-sensitive inputs. These require a deliberate press and are designed to reduce unintended commands caused by sweat, water droplets or hair.

Sound is delivered through Shokz’s Bassphere dual-driver system and OpenBass 2.0 processing, which the company claims provides stronger bass and a wider dynamic range. A 30-degree angled speaker and DirectPitch technology direct audio towards the ear while limiting sound leakage.

Users can adjust playback through the Shokz app, with four preset equaliser modes and two custom profiles available.

Battery life is rated at eight hours from the earbuds and up to 36 hours with the charging case. A 10-minute quick charge provides three hours of listening.

Other features include Bluetooth 6.1, multipoint pairing, Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair, dual microphones with AI noise reduction and an IP55 rating for dust, sweat and water resistance. Active noise cancellation is not included.

The OpenFit Air 2 will launch overseas on August 27 for US$129.95 in black, white and light blue. Australian pricing and availability have not yet been confirmed.