Suunto Spark review: open-ear earbuds built for workouts

At a glance:

• Suunto Spark earbuds feature IP55 sweat and rain resistance, but the charging case lacks protection
• Touch controls offer track navigation and volume adjustment, though head gesture controls struggle during running
• Air conduction design delivers strong sound quality comparable to Shokz, Anker, and Bose open-ear models

Design and Durability

Suunto has prioritized fitness-focused durability with the Spark earbuds, incorporating an IP55 rating to withstand sweat and light rain exposure. However, the charging case does not share this protection, requiring careful storage during active use. The case itself is designed with portability in mind, featuring a slim profile that easily fits into pockets or running belts for on-the-go charging.

Despite the ruggedized build, the earbuds' touch controls present usability challenges in high-motion scenarios. Positioned on the outer surface of each bud, the touch panels can be inadvertently triggered during runs or when handled with sweaty hands. While Suunto acknowledges this limitation in their documentation, the controls are strategically spaced to minimize accidental activation during testing.

Control Methods and Usability

The Spark earbuds offer dual control mechanisms: touch panels and head gesture recognition. The touch interface supports standard functions like track skipping, volume adjustment, and playback control, with additional features for activating workout tracking modes and a built-in metronome. Unfortunately, users cannot switch between EQ modes directly through the earbuds, necessitating reliance on the companion app.

Head gesture controls utilize motion sensors similar to those found in smartwatches, allowing users to answer calls or skip tracks via head nods or shakes. While functional during low-motion activities like walking or cycling, these controls become unreliable during running due to natural head movement. This inconsistency may frustrate users seeking seamless hands-free operation during intense exercise.

Sound Performance and EQ Modes

Audio quality stands out as a strong suit for the Suunto Spark, delivering performance on par with leading open-ear brands like Shokz, Anker, and Bose. The earbuds excel in maintaining clarity during outdoor use, effectively minimizing wind noise that often disrupts podcasts and calls in similar products.

The sound customization options are robust, featuring four EQ presets alongside a custom mode accessible through the Suunto smartphone app. This level of audio tuning surpasses previous Suunto headphone offerings, leveraging air conduction technology to provide more nuanced control over sound profiles. The app interface, while not visually striking, offers straightforward navigation for adjusting settings and configuring workout modes.

Market Positioning and Competition

Suunto enters a competitive open-ear earbud market dominated by established players like Shokz and Bose. The Spark's air conduction approach differentiates it from bone conduction alternatives, offering superior sound customization while maintaining situational awareness crucial for outdoor activities. This positions the earbuds as a viable option for fitness enthusiasts prioritizing both audio quality and environmental safety.

The integration with Suunto's existing ecosystem, particularly their watch app, provides added value for users already invested in the brand's fitness tracking ecosystem. However, the lack of direct EQ switching and inconsistent head gesture performance may limit appeal for some users seeking more refined control options.

Final Assessment

The Suunto Spark successfully balances durability and audio performance for active users, despite some control mechanism shortcomings. While touch controls require careful handling and head gestures falter during running, the core audio experience remains compelling. For Suunto loyalists and open-ear enthusiasts seeking reliable workout companions, the Spark represents a solid entry in the category.

Future iterations could benefit from improved gesture recognition algorithms and expanded on-device controls. Nonetheless, the current model establishes Suunto as a credible contender in the open-ear fitness audio space, particularly for users valuing sound quality and ecosystem integration.