Zeal Optics iON goggles take full HD to the slopes, let you share the extreme thrills
Ever find yourself shredding the gnar and wishing you could share the breathtaking rush of scenery with others? Well, now you can, courtesy of Zeal Optics. Not content to sit on its GPS-laden laurels, the company's added a new twist to the 'ol polarized ski goggles, embedding the iON with an HD camera for 170-degree wide angle recording. The inbuilt module, centered up top, pulls in video and audio at full 1080p and can be controlled using an array of buttons alongside the mask or via the bundled PC / Mac software. If you're not interested in reliving your downhill trek one swoosh at a time, there's always the 8 megapixel cam for photo-taking. Unfortunately, this high-tech eyewear can't wirelessly transmit your captured media -- at least, not this version -- so you'll have to make do with the included microSD card. Sound like a neat proposition? Good, then be prepared to cough up $399 for this high-def slope accessory. Official presser awaits you after the break.
Show full PR text
Zeal Optics Announces Revolutionary iON Goggles with Built in HD Video and Photo
ZEAL OPTICS, INC. ION GOGGLES Zeal Optics debuts iON Goggles with HD video and photo capabilities to capture your fun on the mountain.
BOULDER, CO UNITED STATES
BOULDER, Colo., Jan. 19, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Visitors to Outdoor Retailer in Salt Lake City this week will catch their first glimpse of an industry-changing goggle that lets you capture and share your memories from the mountain. The new iON Goggle from Zeal Optics, Inc., the leader in GPS goggle technology, embeds a high-definition camera that captures videos and photos while standing still or on the move.
iON by Zeal Optics was born out of the desire by the company to create lifestyle products that seamlessly incorporates innovative technology to redefine how people experience the outdoors and share their memories.
"We've arrived at Outdoor Retailer this year with the most diverse goggle portfolio on the market that takes full advantage of technology," said Joe Prebich, director of marketing at Zeal Optics. "The addition of HD video and photo built into an incredible goggle like iON is a perfect new offering for the market. We know that iON is going to change the way you see the mountain because we blend the way you ride with the way you live."
The new iON is equipped with a 1080p True HD video camera that captures real-time video and sound. The camera also snaps 8-megapixel photos. It operates without removing your gloves by using buttons located on the side of the goggles.
"iON combines the most advanced image sensor technology designed in a very compact form that is cosmetically appealing," said John Sanchez, vice president of product development at Zeal Optics. "The sophistication and level of detail in the technical design of the internal components, combined with the external, in-trend goggle look, gives us a unique product that we are proud of."
iON uses a high-quality camera with a sophisticated, 170-degree wide angle lens that captures images in the wide periphery. The camera automatically adjusts for light levels and has infinity focus. It uses an in-goggle viewfinder and on-camera controls. iON runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery with a six-hour run time, depending on video and camera usage.
"This system is very easy to use," added Sanchez, "so anyone can have fun sharing what happens every day of their lives."
iON comes with software that allows users to adjust all settings in the camera and after downloading their video and images from their goggles to their PC and Mac computers via a mini-USB connection. The goggles also have a micro-SD card that can be popped into computers or televisions. Images and video can be shared through all social media outlets, like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and more, or riders can become a member of Zeal's online community to share their shots.
iON's frame offers wide fields of view in a mid-to-large, rimless frame that can withstand extreme temperatures. Zeal Optics' new OPTIMUM™ lens is handcrafted for superior optical clarity. It has anti-fog, high-density, impact-resistant properties that improve performance. The polarized lens provides 100 percent protection from UVA and UVB rays that can damage eyes. Metal mirroring provides additional protection from the sun. iON will be offered in two colors: Matte Night Black and Moss Green.
iON is the pinnacle of the new Zeal Optics Tech Series, defining itself as the leader in goggle technology. The Tech Series is also made up of an industry defining GPS collection. This GPS series features in-goggle GPS viewfinder that allows you to track your altitude, speed, GPS, temp and more, as well as integrate with your android smartphone for Bluetooth syncing and integration.
The Tech Series is just one part of the new 2013 Collection by Zeal Optics. The Zeal Select and Summit Series goggles include 13 new, redesigned goggles that feature superior craftsmanship and quality, resulting in a diverse all-around goggle line.
Zeal Optics' iON Goggles are priced at $399 and will be available at specialty retailers and online stores worldwide, including www.zealoptics.com.
