Oakley's New Airwave Ski Goggles Include GPS, Heads-up Display

Runners, cyclists, and other athletes have the advantage of GPS devices that inform them about their sessions, so why not skiers and snowboarders, too? Due to weather conditions, skiing has proved to be more challenging to instrument than other sports. Oakley recently joined the small number of GPS ski google makers with its new Airwave model, steeply priced at $599. The Airwave has a built-in display in the right lens area (see photo) that shows plenty of data, and even a ski area map. Oakley states that the mini-screen appears at a comfortable viewing size, and does not require the eye to re-focus. The Airwave goggles come with a weather-proof, wrist-worn remote control. Instrumentation includes GPS, an accelerometer, a barometer, and gyro sensors. Functions include (real-time and stored for later upload) speed, jump analytics, vertical, navigation (resort map), buddy tracking, music, and smartphone connectivity (iPhone and Android). If that's not enough, the goggles also have interchangeable lenses for varying conditions. In my experience, Oakley products are extremely durable and well-made, with best-in-class lenses. Image © Oakley