Zygo Z2 swimming headphones review

The Zygo Z2 try solve a problem that proves a stumbling block even for the best swimming headphones. 

Standout brands like Shokz and H20 Audio do a superb job of bringing tunes to the pool or open water. There is one limitation though, which is that you have to download music on to them to be able to use them in the water. For someone like me who only really uses streaming services, this can be a bit tricky. 

As a solution, Zygo has brought out the Z2 bone-conduction headset ($329 / £329) which comes complete with a transmitting unit that can link to your phone and be used to ‘bounce’ the transmission from phone to your headset, even as you swim along. 

Zygo Z2 fit

The first thing to do is measure your noggin and order the right size. I came out as ‘standard’ and the fit was good – slightly compressive, but not painful, plus the unit can be worn on top of your swim cap which was a bonus, as with previous brands tested I’ve found the top of my ears can get a little sore. 

Next, flip up the aerial on the charging case to turn it into a transmitter unit. That then sits by the water and as long as your phone is within 30 metres (9 feet) it will transmit to the headset (worth noting the transmitter case is splash-proof but not submergible!). 

Volume can be adjusted via two depressions on the back of the headphone ‘strap’ which allow you to turn your music up or down as you swim. 

Zygo Z2 sound quality and features

So far so good – but this is where it gets exciting. As well as music, there’s a function for clarity on spoken word audio (so you can listen to audio books) and in testing, I found sound quality superb under the water. There’s even a small delay on the transmission to avoid annoying gaps or buffering if you do something like a tumble turn which may disturb signal. 

It’s not just about the music though. The Zygo app allows you to do all kinds of other fun things like log your swims, get a notification sound every time you hit a pace or distance goal and – impressively – listen to training sets from coaches and athletes including one Alistair Brownlee. 

Though if you have the Form goggles like me, you likely won’t use this feature much. 

There’s even a walkie-talkie function so if you coach, you can use your phone to talk to a swimmer in the water. 

The range is around 50m / 164ft (less in salt water) and your music can last 2-3 hours depending on the volume. 

Zygo Z2 specs

Price	$329 / £329
Type	Bone-conduction
Features	Bluetooth transmission from phone / transmitter to headset, lap counting, workout app, 2-in-1 transmitter and charging case, standard and large fit, walkie-talkie function
Battery life	2-3 hours

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