Oakley, Inc. unveiled a new snow goggle called Airwave that integrates a heads-up display developed by Recon Instruments, with GPS, Bluetooth and a host of onboard sensors. It also said that for the first time, Oakley’s performance optics will be available in select Apple stores and Apple.com.
“Our icon defines the leading edge of performance innovation, and the new Airwave goggle brings alpine sports into the future with a stunning array of capabilities,” said Oakley CEO Colin Baden. “It utilizes cutting-edge electronics to give skiers and riders instant access to a world of information. Airwave represents the power and possibility of technology, and it comes with world-class optical performance, comfort and protection engineered over decades of Oakley innovation.”
With Airwave, alpine sports enthusiasts can access a full range of information transmitted directly to the eye. 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 easily 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 innovative 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 is not 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 offers wide-ranging capabilities to reinvent the alpine sport experience and will be upgraded frequently for even more features.
The heads-up display is designed for an unobtrusive view, and semi-flush lens geometry ensures wide peripheral vision.
“Oakley is dedicated beyond reason to exceed the limits of possibility, and Airwave will let winter sports enthusiasts do the same with technology that offers the ultimate in performance, convenience and capability,” Baden concluded.
Oakley Airwave will be available for purchase at Oakley Stores and Oakley.com; Apple.com and Apple Stores in North America, Europe and Japan; SunglassHut.com; ReconInstruments.com; and select retail locations including a range of resort destinations starting on Wednesday, Oct. 31.
