Zeal Optics and Recon Instruments have created Transcend, a pair of ski goggles that have both GPS and a head-mounted built-in display. A tiny computer gathers information from a number of onboard sensors and provides location, speed, altitude and temperature information to the wearer via a micro-LCD display inside the goggles. The image from the display is then virtually projected so that it appears out in front of the user.
The optical system, designed by Recon Instruments, is made to appear as though it hangs about six feet in front of the you. To the side of the Transcend goggles are a three buttons to control information.
There’s also a USB port to enable users to download trip stats to a computer or laptop and to charge the Li-ion battery, which is said to give seven hours between charges. The goggles weigh 257 grams (9 ounces) and come shipped with a protective hard case, lens cleaning bag and a charger.
The Recon HQ Software allows you to overlay Google Maps onto stats and highlights. Snippets can be uploaded to Recon’s new online portal and shared. There will be two Recon/Zeal Optics Transcend lens options available at the release launch on October 10.
The option with an SPPX polarized and photochromic lens, which auto adjusts to changing light conditions, will run $499. The SPX polarized lens version will be priced at $399.
