Suunto Wing: The ultimate companion for active lifestyles
Suunton Wing. Pictures: Suunton.
Bone conduction headphones offer several advantages for athletes. Unlike traditional headphones that cover or block the ears, bone conduction technology transmits sound vibrations through the cheekbones directly to the inner ear, leaving the ear canal open. This allows athletes to remain aware of their surroundings, such as traffic noise or other potential hazards, enhancing safety during outdoor activities. I’ve been testing the new Suunto Wing bone conduction headphones, which are lightweight and comfortable, ideal for extended wear during long training sessions or competitions.
I’ve tested a lot of bone-conduction headphones, but the Wing stands out from the crowd thanks to its unique design and innovative charging station. Crafted from a blend of titanium and silicone, the headphones boast a feather-light weight of only 33 grams. This lightweight construction, which wraps around the back of your head, ensures a secure and comfortable fit, even during intense physical activities such as sports.
The Suunto logo is prominently displayed in white lettering on the black version of the Wing I received. There are two magnetic pogo pins on the back of the right side, which can be used to charge the headset using the supplied cable. However, a second option for charging and storage comes in the form of a charging station. The headset sits in the open cradle, which contains a battery that can charge them on the go. This, in turn, can be charged using a standard USB-C cable.
While I’m not a fan of flashing lights on headphones or earbuds, the long red LED stripes on each side of the Wing look pretty cool. However, they’re not there to make you look cool. Instead, these bright LED lights on the module enhance visibility and are customisable through the free Suunto app (iOS and Android).
Sporting an IP67 certification, the Suunto Wing proves its mettle in adverse conditions, capable of withstanding temporary submersion in water up to one meter deep for 30 minutes. From scorching heat to freezing cold, these headphones endure temperatures ranging from -20°C to 60°C, making them suitable for any climate.
Also included are earplugs and a soft pull-string pouch to protect and carry the headphones.
Equipped with three buttons, you can control volume, track navigation, and make phone calls. Two are on the right side – a volume down and a power/volume up. Press and hold the latter to power the headset on and off. The third is located on the left side and controls playback and calls.
The Wing also uses Head Movement Control, where you can answer or end calls and control music playback with a nod or shake of the head.
What sets the Suunto Wing apart is its utilisation of bone conduction technology, unlike traditional headphones that transmit sound through the air. By sending vibrations directly to the inner ear via the cheekbones, the Wing ensures you remain aware of your surroundings, prioritising safety in urban and natural settings. This method circumvents ear canal pressure, making the headphones comfortable for extended wear.
From a sound quality standpoint, the technology has improved in the last few years, but it isn’t as good as traditional headphones. You lose out on bass, and some clarity, but the Wing is one of these I’ve used. What I love about these open-ear headphones is the natural, spacious soundstage. This suits acoustic and genres with a strong vocal lead but isn’t as good for music with heavy bass.
With a rapid one-hour charge, the Suunto Wing delivers up to 10 hours of playtime, and a mere 10-minute charge provides an extra three hours of usage. Including a portable charging station, doubling as a power bank extends battery life by up to 20 hours.
The Suunto Wing is an excellent alternative to conventional fitness headphones, embodying a fusion of innovation, durability, and user-centric design. With its bone conduction technology, intuitive controls, and robust performance, the Wing is an indispensable companion for individuals embracing an active lifestyle.
Suunto Wing available in black or lava red – €199 Suunto
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