Why would a site dedicated to bringing you information about the latest technology in gadgets want to report about snowboard goggles? Because they are just about the coolest electronics gadget you can buy right now. Snowboarder Magazine reported yesterday that Oakley has introduced a new goggle called the Airwave, and it is packed with enough technology to make even the most un-athletic tech-nerd want to strap them on and hit the slopes.
The press release states the Airwave “…combines the company’s best goggle technologies with a heads-up display developed by Recon Instruments, integrating GPS, Bluetooth®, and more with a host of onboard sensors”. The goggle uses an integrated heads-up-display that utilizes an innovative prism technology creating the illusion of viewing a 14” LCD screen that appears to be five feet away. Clear enough to see the information easily, but far enough to not be distracting.
And speaking of displayed information, some of the metrics displayed in real time include; jump analytics; map and navigational information - including tracking information for others in your group. The standard information you would expect such as distance traveled, altitude, speed and vertical descent, is also displayed.
The Airwave can pair with a smartphone via Bluetooth to allow viewing of incoming calls and text messages. A wireless remote worn like a watch also provides control of music playlists. Strap on a Bluetooth enabled heart rate monitor and those statistics can be displayed too.
The Airwave goggles are compatible with both Apple iOS and Android and are available on the Apple store, Oakley.com, and select retail outlets.
Oh, I forgot to mention…besides all the technology, the goggles themselves look pretty good too!
The full press release.