Zeal Optics intro 1080p, 8MP iON ski goggles
updated 06:30 pm EST, Thu January 19, 2012
Features 170-degree lens, built-in viewfinder
Snow sports accessory maker Zeal Optics has expanded its sports google line with the debut of the iON Google, a visor that also includes a 1080p HD camera that can capture video and sound, or 8MP still images. The camera features a 170-degree wide angle, fixed "infinity" focus and automatic light-level adjustment, storing its media on a micro-SD card. It also has an in-goggle viewfinder.
The new model is debuting at Outdoor Retailer in Salt Lake City, but will soon be available via the company's website. The goggles feature a polarized lens that offers full protection from UVA and UVB rays, and are engineered for optimum clarity, extreme temperatures and are both impact-resistant and anti-fog. The camera uses controls built into the side of the goggles so that users do not have to remove gloves to operate them, and the rechargeable lithium-ion battery built into the unit offers up to six hours of runtime.
The goggles have a micro-USB port so that users can easily offload the pictures or video to a computer and upload them to social, photo and video networks like FaceTime, Instagram and YouTube without conversion. Zeal Optics also has its own community forums where members can share shots and videos.
The Zeal Optics iON Goggle is priced at $400 and will be available at snow-sports accessory stores both retail and online. The company offers a full line of technology-augmented and regular goggles, including models with on-board GPS for tracking speed, altitude and other aspects of winter sport performance.
