In TLDR mode? My Betty x TRI 2 Multi-Sport headphones test results can be summed-up in two sentences. First, they are IPX-8 waterproof rated. Second, they allow you to listen to music while still being able to hear your surroundings. Both of these features make them great aboard a boat, for floating and sunning, paddleboarding, fishing and more.
When I’m not fishing or boating, I’m a distance runner. I train in rain, sleet and snow, and I also train in the gym. I want to hear approaching cars, wildlife or anything else that’s in my environment while training yet still hear my music. The waterproof factor is big, but so is the bone conduction technology that the Betty x TRI 2 Multi-Sport headphones use to deliver sound through your cheekbones rather than blocking your ears. It’s a different listening experience than traditional earbuds.
The defining feature here is versatility. With an IPX8 waterproof rating, these headphones can be submerged up to 12 feet indefinitely, making them a legitimate option for swimmers—not just “water-resistant” gear.
Equally important is the open-ear design, which allows you to hear your surroundings while listening to music. In real-world use, this translates to better situational awareness than my AirPods. Whether running roads or paddling on a lake, that added awareness is a genuine safety advantage.
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The wraparound, behind-the-head design is clearly tuned for motion. The headset stays planted during high-output workouts—no bouncing, no slipping. That’s a big win compared to in-ear buds that tend to loosen with sweat or impact. The button layout makes them easy to control mid-workout. Battery life lands in the 8–9 hour range, depending on mode, which comfortably covers long training sessions or races. For endurance athletes, that’s key—you’re not worrying about your soundtrack dying halfway through a long effort.
Bone conduction has inherent limitations, and the TRI 2 is no exception. While H2O Audio touts improved bass and clarity, the listening experience is still more about function than fidelity. Music is clear, especially for workouts, but it won’t rival traditional headphones for depth or richness. That tradeoff is intentional—you gain awareness and waterproofing at the expense of audiophile-level sound.
Additionally, I experienced a dull throb near my upper earlobe following long, intense workouts. These headphones transmit vibrations (sound) through the skull.
For sporting activities where both motion and moisture, whether water or sweat, are concerns, the TRI 2 headphones are superior to AirPods. If you prioritize safety, fit, and waterproof performance over pure sound quality, it’s an excellent choice. $149.99, h2oaudio.com/products/betty-x-tri-2-multi-sport
