Jaybird is releasing the Jaybird RUN TODAY, the company’s first foray into true wireless technology. Up until now, Jaybird (and most companies actually) have had “wireless headphones” – in which each bud has actually been connected to the other, but still calling itself “wireless” due to the fact that it operates via Bluetooth with the user’s phone. I have used that style for some time (including the Jaybird X3), but this is the second pair of true wireless headphones that we have tested out. We have been sampling the Jaybird RUN for a few weeks now, and have some thoughts on them. First, some specs:
Designed by runners, for runners, Jaybird RUN delivers a secure, comfort-fit, sweat-proofing, water resistance and customizable sound in a truly wire free package.
Building on years of leadership in wireless headphone innovation, Jaybird RUN has:
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The latest in true wireless Bluetooth technology, offering big, rich sound with drop-free connectivity in a stylish, low-profile design.
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A selection of interchangeable tips and fins for different ear sizes, so you’re sure to get the perfect secure and comfortable fit.
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Double hydrophobic nano coating so it protects your headphones from sweat and water damage.
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One intuitive control-button to take calls, starts and stops music, skips tracks and activates Siri or Google Assistant.
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A special design for one-ear use, so runners can listen to their music while staying aware of their surroundings.
What We Liked:
- The Jaybird RUN’s have some of the longest play capabilities on a single charge (4 hours)! That is definitely helpful for those who plan to use these for marathons, ultras, or just a combination of listening casually and then leading into running. I constantly use my headphones at work and then straight into my lunchtime run hour, so with the 4 hour ability, it makes this transition easy without having to recharge first. Additionally, the small carrying case doubles as a charging case that provides an additional 8 hours (!) of portable battery. Lastly, just putting these in for a quick 5-minute charge can give up to an hour of playtime. That’s awesome for when you are out on a long run and may need a quick boost to get back to your house or car. Just plop these in for a 5 minute water break and you just bought yourself an additional 60 minutes!
- The ability to only use one ear at a time is a definite plus. In non-running situations, it allows it to function more as a bluetooth without plugging up both ears. When running, this can be especially helpful so that runners can listen to their music while staying aware of their surroundings.
- Connectivity seems to be on-point. I have ran both in town and in very rural trails (where internet access doesn’t currently exist), and there haven’t been any connection issues between my headphones and phone.
- I liked the large buttons on each bud. While that initially led to some accidental bumping of the buttons, it was better than having to fumble around trying to fall tiny, super-sensitive buttons. Over time I have stopped the accidental bumps and maneuvering through the options (Siri, music controls, call features, etc) is much simpler.
- I will talk a little bit about my struggle with the Jaybird app below, but here I will highlight what I really like about the app – the “Find My Buds” feature. This feature was made for me, as someone who misplaces his wallet, keys, and even my headphones ALL the time. This is a God-send for me.
Some Struggles:
- Given every runner’s unique make-up, it’s hard to make a one-size-fits-all product. That is the case with headphones as well, as ear shapes can obviously run the full gamut. Jaybird does an admirable job of delivering headphones with multiple ear bud and ear wing sizes, but I had a hard time finding the fit that worked best for me. It took multiple runs, and numerous combinations, until I found the one that fit best. Even then, I don’t feel they fit as secure as I wish. Note that this may not be the case with you, so it shouldn’t necessarily be a deal breaker right off the bat.
- The Jaybird app is pretty nice and sleek. It has the ability to preset your sound preference and shows how some sponsored athletes like their music. They also have a music section with tons of playlists from all genres. the problem is that it appears in order to access these playlists, you must be a Spotify member. While many music runners already are a part of Spotify, for those (like me) who utilize another music streaming service (Amazon, in my case), I can’t access these playlists. That being said, I am still able to listen to my own music without an issue, so it isn’t that big of an issue.
Overall, we are pretty impressed with Jaybird’s first leap into the true wireless market. We think that some simple sizing modifications (maybe offering “memory foam” buds) and app updates will really put Jaybird on top. The sound is really great, and you can tell that these were made with runners in mind, something we obviously appreciate.
Products:
- Jaybird Run ($179) – Amazon
- Jet (black with silver metal accents)
- Drift (white with silver metal accents)
More about Jaybird:
Let truly wireless music accelerate your performance. Jaybird RUN headphones free your run with a secure comfort-fit for any ear, sweat-proof coating and water resistance, and 12 hours of playtime with the included charging case. No wires. No worries.
Effortless headphones – just put them in and forget you’re wearing them. Whether you’re charging down a technical trail or running on the road – Jaybird RUN stays comfortably secure while being the envy of every wire-wearing athlete around you. RUN’s interchangeable tips and fins deliver a secure comfort-fit for all ear sizes.
*”More About” information taken from the company’s website. We like to let their own stories speak for themselves, because we review companies that have real personality and passion about what they do.
Thank you to Jaybird for providing us with a sample pair. Please read our transparency page for info on how we do our reviews.