Turns out the fine folks at One Good Earbud saw my last post, and they were generous enough to send me a few samples for testing.

The products I received are right-side earbuds, in two styles, and a package of “budlocks”, which are formfitting caps that replace the standard silicone ones that come with most in-ear earbuds.

I chose to test the wrap-around style of right earbud, because it seemed more secure for riding. Also, I already own a pair of in-ear headphones, so I can pretty well imagine what those would be like.

Right out of the box, the earbud feels kind of cheap in comparison with the Apple In-Ear ones I’m used to wearing. This isn’t a big deal, though, as the product retails for a mere $20. The cord is around 3 1/2 feet long, which is an ideal length: long enough to reach into your pocket, but not so long that you have to bundle up the excess.

The earbud fits nicely over my (admittedly large) right ear, and the speaker rests quite comfortably over my… ear hole. Is there a better word for that? (Canal opening? Groce.) Anyway, it fits.

The sound quality is just fine. I mean, they’re not going to blow the socks off any audiophiles out there, but they certainly aren’t crummy. I found that they work great for podcasts (which are a lovely accompaniment to a long commute). I recommend Jordan, Jesse, GO!, Uhh, Yeah Dude, and The Pod F. Tompkast, in case you’re looking for suggestions.

On my ride, the earbud stayed put and did not block the sounds of traffic from entering my ear hole (safety!). I did experience wind noise in my right ear — but only when I was hauling ass or dealing with a headwind. It’s a non-issue for normal riding.

One feature of my Apple In-Ears that I did miss is the mic remote. Being able to pause, skip, rewind, and adjust the volume without stopping to reach into my pocket is super useful. However, One Good Earbud does make a slightly pricier product with an in-line mic and button that could probably do some of those things; however, I can’t say for sure how well it performs.

THE VERDICT:
After using One Good Earbud’s wrap-around right earbud for a few days, I must say that I’m a fan. It’s a clean, simple product that really brightens up a dreary ride to work. And you can’t beat the price. Go buy it here!

AND GUESS WHAT? I didn’t test the other earbud or the bullocks (pictured above), so I’m giving them away to one lucky Bike Safe Boston reader!

To enter, leave me a comment about your closest call on a bike. I’ll select the best entry and mail out the earbud and budlocks, just in time for the holidays!

Yours,
Josh