Suunto Wing: Open-Ear Bone Conduction Headphones
The Suunto Wing immediately stands out with its rugged, premium design. Crafted from silicone and titanium, the Wing is built to last, and the materials keep it light and comfortable at just 33 grams. The IP67 water-resistance rating is a plus, allowing the Wing to withstand rain, sweat, and dust, though it won’t conduct sound underwater. This makes it a practical choice for all-weather conditions, ensuring durability on rough trails or rainy days.
The headset fits comfortably around the back of the head and over the ears. While the design is stable for running or biking, it may need minor adjustments if worn with a bike helmet, depending on the helmet’s fit.
Key Features of the Suunto Wing
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Bone Conduction Technology: Enables safe audio listening while keeping ears open to ambient sounds, increasing safety for outdoor activities.
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Weight: Light at 33 grams, providing comfort during prolonged wear.
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Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of playtime, with an additional 20 hours from the portable charging dock.
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Dual Microphone with Noise Cancellation: Offers clear voice capture during calls.
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Smart Head Gesture Control: Simple nodding and shaking gestures for call handling and music control.
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IP67 Rating: Resistant to water and dust, making it suitable for various weather conditions.
- Temperature Range: Operates effectively from -20°C to 60°C, handling diverse climates with ease.
Sound Quality
For those primarily listening to podcasts, audiobooks, or calls, the Suunto Wing delivers clear sound. However, if you’re an audiophile expecting deep bass and high fidelity, these may not satisfy. Bone-conduction technology is generally better for mid-range audio, and the Wing reflects this. The open-ear design prioritizes safety and situational awareness over immersive sound, making it perfect for outdoor use but less ideal in noisy environments. In loud settings, such as busy streets or airports, volume might struggle to compete with ambient noise. Suunto includes foam earplugs, which can help in certain situations, though these aren’t recommended when situational awareness is essential.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a strong suit for the Suunto Wing. The headset itself provides up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge. Additionally, the portable charging dock offers an extra 20 hours, making it ideal for extended trips or long-distance outings. A quick 10-minute charge delivers up to 3 hours of playback, and a full charge takes only an hour. The charging dock connects via USB-C, but it’s worth noting that the USB-C cable isn’t included. However, the magnetic cable for charging the headset directly is included, which is a convenient touch.
Controls and Functionality
Suunto has kept controls simple and intuitive. The buttons are easy to locate and use, even while moving: