Oakley has announced a new snow goggle called Airwave that will be available on Oct. 31. It combines the company’s goggle technologies with a heads-up display developed by Recon Instruments, integrating GPS, Bluetooth, and more with a host of onboard sensors. For the first time, Oakley’s performance optics will be available in select Apple stores and Apple.com .
With the US$599 Airwave, alpine sports enthusiasts can access a full range of information transmitted directly to the eye, says Oakley CEO Colin Baden. Snowboarders and skiers can view jump analytics, pinpoint their location on a resort map alongside navigational information, and even locate and track others in their group.
Additional sensor information includes distance traveled, altitude, speed and vertical descent data. Pairing with a smartphone allows immediate viewing of incoming calls and text messages, and music playlists on a Bluetooth-enabled device can be accessed and controlled by the glove-friendly wireless remote that can be strapped to the user’s body or goggle depending on their preference.
Integrated within the goggle, the heads-up display uses prism technology to display information perceived by the wearer to be the size of a 14-inch screen that is five feet away, so refocusing the eye isn’t necessary.
Airwave is compatible with both Apple and Android operating systems. Low Energy Bluetooth connectivity allows the goggle to interface with the wearer’s smartphone, heart rate monitor and more. The Oakley Airwave App will be available at www.oakley.com/airwave .
All these attributes are in addition to Oakley goggle innovations including Switchlock Technology that makes the process of lens changing quick and hassle-free, allowing the wearer to take advantage of the company’s wide array of premium performance lens tints that optimize vision for environmental conditions, says Baden The heads-up display is designed for an unobtrusive view, and semi-flush lens geometry ensures wide peripheral vision. F3 anti-fog technology is paired with a dual-vented lens design to help keep vision clear.
