Oakley Meta Vanguard: A Fitness Enthusiast's New Best Friend?

The Oakley Meta Vanguard sunglasses are a game-changer for fitness lovers. Unlike other smart glasses, these are designed with athletes in mind. The wraparound frames and reflective lenses give them a sporty look. They come with interchangeable lenses, which is great for different lighting conditions. However, they don't support prescription lenses. These glasses have a unique setup. The camera is centered above the nosebridge, making it easier to capture action shots without obstructions. The touchpad on the right side controls volume and music playback. There's also a customizable action button that can trigger specific functions. This button is a handy feature, especially for those who find saying "Hey Meta" in public a bit awkward. The Vanguard glasses integrate seamlessly with Garmin and Strava, two popular platforms for tracking runs and bike rides. This integration allows users to capture video clips based on their activity metrics. For instance, you can set it to record when you hit a certain heart rate zone. Strava integration lets you overlay your stats directly onto photos and videos from your activity. This feature is particularly useful for sharing your achievements on social media.The glasses also come with improved speakers, which are louder and clearer. This is especially useful in noisy environments like congested roadways or high-wind conditions. The 12MP ultra-wide camera comes with new video stabilization settings, making it feel more like an action cam. The glasses can also record hyperlapse and slow-motion videos, adding to their versatility. Battery life is another area where the Vanguard glasses excel. They can go nine hours on a charge with typical use or six hours with continuous audio playback. This makes them ideal for long-distance runners or marathon competitors. The glasses also have increased water resistance, with an IP67 rating. This means you won't have to worry about them getting damaged in the snow or rain. However, the Vanguard glasses are more expensive than other models. At $499, they might feel steep for a pair of sunglasses you'll only wear during specific activities. But if you're a dedicated athlete, the features and capabilities of these glasses make them a worthwhile investment.