Running outdoors can pose a whole world of hazards—from crazy drivers, to unpredictable bikers and unleashed dogs. It’s often impossible to hear when a potential danger is in your path while enjoying your favorite playlist on a typical set of headphones. With Panasonic’s Wired Open Ear Headphones, you can stay focused and fearless without having to worry about missing any warning sounds. Panasonic’s Wired Open Ear Headphones(MSRP: $79.99), transmits sound vibrations through the upper cheek bones of the face to the cochlea of the inner ear, allowing a user to listen to music while still paying attention to outside sounds—like the beep of a car horn. We found them very comfortable and really well made. The only flaw we found was that even though the music sounded great, we couldn’t get the same volume we do with other headphones. However, that may just be the point. Don’t blow out your eardrums and don’t put yourself in a position in which you can’t hear what’s going on around you. 
To prove how the Panasonic Open Ear Bone Conduction Headphones help improve your safety and help you be fearless on your run, Panasonic has an #OpenYourEars challenge. To follow the Panasonic #OpenYourEars challenge you can follow them on Twitter at @PanaAdventure.
If you prefer more traditional in-ear style headphones, the ATH-CKX5iS SonicFuel In-Ear Headphones with In-Line Mic and Control might be perfect for you. They’re customizable so you can change the eartip and c-tip to a size that works best for you, AKA … no more uncomfortable headphones. The ear tip also rotates 360 degrees, so it directs sound right into your unique ear canal. As the name implies, it also has a mic so you can answer calls while listening to music.
Both In-Ear and Open-Ear Headphones have their own advantages but it really comes down to clarity vs. safety. If you live in the hustle and bustle of a city then perhaps the open-ear headphones are just what you need to feel more aware of the potential hazards around you. If you run in more secluded areas where you feel safe, then perhaps the comfortable and crystal clear sound of the in-ear headphones will float your boat better. Regardless, these are two awesome products worth gifting this holiday season.
