Wang Jiachao lost his left arm in an accident at age five. At ten, he joined the swimming team and went onto compete in three Paralympic Games, winning one gold, four silver, and one bronze medal. After retiring in 2015, he chose a more difficult path — transitioning to triathlon. From the pool to open water, from lanes to roads and mountains, everything started from scratch. With no coach, he studied on his own; with no funding, he paid his own way to compete. Completing the three disciplines of swimming, cycling, and running with one arm meant he needed more balance and strength than anyone else.

It is this brave exploration of the unknown that aligns him with Shokz's philosophy — "Be Open." During training, he needs to stay constantly aware of his surroundings: the sound of traffic on the road, the movements of other competitors on the course, the instructions from his coach or family. Shokz Open-Ear design allows him to take in everything without ever taking off his headphones — keeping him safe without breaking his rhythm.