The Sharp HP-BC55 is a bone conduction headset. Rather than going into or over the ear, the wraparound band rests on the cheekbones and sends sound through bone, leaving both ears completely open. That makes it a natural fit for running, cycling and any job where hearing what is around you matters, and Sharp presents the ear-free approach as private listening that also helps reduce hearing damage. The 45-gram band carries an IP68 waterproof rating and pairs over Bluetooth V5.3 for 6 hours of play time per charge. It also works with no phone at all: 32 GB of built-in memory holds MP3 files for the pool, the gym or anywhere a phone would be a liability. A built-in microphone answers calls, and USB Type-C recharges it in about an hour and a half.

• Bone conduction transducers leave both ears open for full ambient awareness
• 32 GB of built-in memory with MP3 playback — works with no phone connected
• IP68 waterproof rating
• Bluetooth V5.3 with a built-in microphone for call answering
• 6 hours of play time from a 150 mAh rechargeable Li-Ion battery
• USB Type-C charging — approximately 1.5 hours to full
• Lightweight 45.4 g wraparound band