Some people prefer earphones that blend in so much no one can tell they're even being used, while others like their ear cans to stand out from the crowd. If you fall into the latter crowd, the Skullcandy Icon 2 headphones will probably be right up your alley.
This on-ear model lists for $29.95 and features Skullcandy's typical eye-catching design. The earphones offer a couple of fun and useful extras, but the sound quality won't impress many users, and the fit may prove to be an issue for active pursuits.
As for the style of the headphones, it's clearly aimed at a younger audience and is more likely to appeal to teens than their parents. What is certain is that the Icon 2 earphones are far from boring-looking, with seven loud color options to choose from, including a rather soothing Aqua Print model and the death-metal-appropriate Able Black.
The prints may be loud, but they were also clearly done by some talented design folks, and they even include some snap on earpiece "plates" for changing up the look a bit from time to time. There's also Skullcandy's signature black-and-gold bandanna, purportedly for keeping your face toasty on the slopes.
Unlike the Icon Soft headphones, the Icon 2s don't have the leatherette pad wrapped around the headband, opting instead for a rubberized inner lining. This is actually a blessing in disguise as it keeps the band from sliding around as much during activity. That said, the earphones still don't feel secure enough for their active ends.
Descending from each Icon 2 earpiece is a color-coordinated Y-cable that terminates in a gold-plated straight plug. The wire is coated in cloth and is exceptionally thick, meaning the cord is probably exceptionally durable--an impressive feat for earphones in this price range.
Also, the left cable features an inline mic and call answer button for using the Icon 2 as a stereo headset with the iPhone and other music phones, which is another nice feature for the price.
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