Swim headphones are becoming more popular among competitive and fitness swimmers, from Shokz OpenSwim to Zygo systems with coach-to-swimmer audio. But do these tools actually improve your training? After testing them myself, I’ve found that while waterproof headphones can add rhythm and even real-time cues, nothing replaces clear, timely feedback. Here’s my perspective as a coach – and why video swim technique analysis remains the best way to create lasting improvements in your stroke.