When it comes to running technology, I consider myself a dedicated enthusiast. The latest Garmin Forerunner watch? Absolutely. New performance-enhancing caffeine gels for long-distance runs? Sign me up immediately. So, when I learned that Oakley was launching a pair of smart sports glasses featuring a secure fit, open-ear speakers, microphones, advanced Garmin and Strava integration, plus a live-action camera, I was eager to put them to the test.
Could These Glasses Replace Multiple Gadgets?
Would these innovative sunglasses replace my standard Oakley shades, over-ear headphones, and smartphone camera all at once? Alternatively, might they prove to be a gimmicky and uncomfortable addition, destined to join forgotten items like old Spibelts, worn-out running visors, and retired sports bras in a drawer? I have been running extensively with the Oakley Meta Vanguard Sunglasses with Meta AI, priced at $788 and available through Amazon Australia. Here is my comprehensive assessment.
Premium Pricing for Cutting-Edge Technology
At $788, these sunglasses rank among the most expensive sports eyewear options on the market. The justification lies in the groundbreaking technology embedded within them, representing some of the most advanced features ever seen in the sports wearables industry. Oakley's Meta Vanguards are designed to elevate athletic performance to unprecedented levels.
Users can capture dynamic moments via video and still photography, access live workout metrics, enjoy their favourite playlists, and more—all through simple button touches or voice commands like "hey Meta." One of the most remarkable features is the centred, ultra-wide 12MP camera with a 122-degree field of view.
Revolutionary Camera and Stabilisation
For the first time in sports glasses, athletes can record, share, and relive races and unique experiences as they happen. The glasses deliver razor-sharp 3K Ultra HD videos and offer multiple capture modes, including slow motion and hyperlapse. Even on uneven terrain like bumpy hills, the adjustable stabilisation ensures smooth footage, with options to manually set preferences or let the glasses auto-select the optimal level.
Seamless Integration with Fitness Apps
Another standout aspect is the integration with Garmin and Strava. By pairing Meta AI with these activity tracking apps, users gain access to real-time and historical performance metrics, health signals, and summaries, all while staying focused and present. Hidden speakers in each arm direct sound toward the ears for music, calls, or interactions with Meta's AI chatbot. Control is intuitive, via voice commands or the touch panel on the right arm.
Putting the Glasses to the Test
At first glance, the Oakley Meta Vanguards are undeniably stylish. Despite their advanced Meta AI capabilities, they retain the classic, beloved Oakley aesthetic. My only minor critique? As someone with a smaller head, they appear somewhat large and chunky on my face when worn.
During initial runs around Manly and Fairlight, I was pleasantly surprised by how securely and comfortably they stayed in place. The sound quality for music is exceptional, offering clarity that rivals over-ear headphones, though with slightly less bass. A convenient feature is the automatic pause when the glasses are removed, perfect for transitioning from running to conversation without interruption.
Impressions on Camera Performance
The camera performance is highly impressive. Over the past month, I have enjoyed recording slow-motion videos, photos, and hyperlapses while running. While it does not match the quality of an iPhone camera, the glasses excel at capturing footage on the go without needing to retrieve a smartphone from tight running shorts. This allows runners to stay immersed in the moment, ideal for scenic trail runs around locations like Manly Dam.
AI Chatbot and Practical Applications
The Meta AI Chatbot enables users to ask questions about pace, weather, or other topics mid-run. Personally, I often found myself struggling to think of queries, preferring to zone out and let thoughts flow naturally. However, this feature could benefit those who enjoy engaging with their environment analytically. It also supports hands-free calling, messaging, and photo sharing, adding practical utility.
Top Feature: Garmin and Strava Integration
The most outstanding feature is undoubtedly the smart integration with Garmin and Strava. Running enthusiasts will appreciate asking Meta for real-time updates on pace, distance, cadence, and heart rate. The Garmin integration allows overlaying workout statistics, such as distance, pace, and elevation, onto five-second video clips from activities. This creates highly shareable and engaging content for followers and personal review.
Final Verdict on the Oakley Meta Vanguards
After a month of testing, I can confidently say these are the best smart sports glasses I have ever encountered. They are undoubtedly expensive, but their clever design and functionality justify the cost for the right user. Runners with an interest in premium sunglasses, superior sound quality, Garmin integration, and video capabilities will likely adore them. Cyclists and skiers could also derive significant benefits.
The glasses boast a sleek, sporty appearance that matches their high-performance nature. Sound clarity exceeds expectations, comfort and stability are excellent, and the ability to capture photos and videos seamlessly during runs is transformative. No longer do athletes need to fumble with phones; these glasses are a genuine game-changer for active lifestyles.
