Features:

• Quit hassling with regular ear or headphones.
• Play music while you snowboard.
• Compatible with any 3.5 mm jack device.
• This product does not care about what kind of music you listen to and will not judge you as a person.
• Compatibility: Any Giro/Smith/Other brand which has earpads that allow drop-ins to be planted.

Get em' know! They're selling like hotcakes!

I have been getting a lot of questions about which type of GoPro camera one should buy if interested. I first think it is great that you're looking into finally getting one, especially after watching these X games and all of the great camera angles they were able to capture of the professionals. I've had mine for 2 years and could not be any happier! Just last weekend I attached it to my dog on our hike and posted it to Facebook and got some likes from a few cute girls (because likes mean everything, right!?). I'll post the video later this week. I digress, and provide you with some tips when deciding to purchase your GoPro.

To get right to the point of my writing: I can't give you a definite answer. What I can definitely tell you right now is that we are to focus on the GoPro HERO3's (and I will touch base on a few HERO2's as well), as it is the best technology and provides options for numerous consumers. However, what GoPro camera you're going to buy is ultimately subjective that depends on a few of your conditions! These are:

• Your budget
• What you will be using the camera for
• Which conditions/environments you will be in the majority of your use

Your budget

I put this here first because this is one of the most important factors when purchasing your camera. The HERO3 has three editions, ranging from $199 - $399. The HERO2's are at the bottom of this gap, but aren't as "new" and lack some features the 3's have. Here are the retails for each. It is all dependent on how much you want to spend of your amazing tax return you just got back from the gov't:

• HERO3: White Edition: $199
• HERO3: Silver Edition: $299
• HERO3: Black Edition: $399
• HERO2 $279 (may continue to drop as time goes on)

What you will be using the camera for

Now that you've checked out the prices and can keep those in consideration, what are you using the camera for? Professional use (some movies have used them before)? Everyday use (like with me and my dog)? Or somewhere in the middle along the lines of motorbiking or surfing in more extreme sports conditions?

If you are using the camera for more simpler activities, the Silver or even White Edition is fine for you.

The reason I ask what you will be using it for is to determine which set of features you need. If you're going to be using it for simpler activities, don't go all out for a Black edition with a 60fps, 1080p cam (all HERO3's are 1080p, anyways). The reason the Black Edition is so expensive is because of the crazy quality it has, and if you're using it for a more simple basis I wouldn't worry about the difference. The Silver or even White is perfectly fine for you. The main difference between these two is the white's camera has a 5 megapixels with 3fps burst, while the silver is 11 megapixels with a 10 fps burst -- is that worth $100 to you?

Here are the features for the HERO's organized simply in a chart to compare:

	Max Video Resolution*	Photo Quality	WiFi Built-in?**	WiFi Remote Compatible?	GoPro App Compatible?	Price
HERO3: White	1080p/30fps	5 MP 3 fps burst	No	Yes (Sold Separately)	Yes	$199.99
HERO3: Silver	1080p/30fps	11 MP 10 fps burst	No	Yes (Sold Separately)	Yes	$299.99
HERO3: Black	4K Cinema/15fps	12 MP 30 fps burst	Yes	Yes (Included)	Yes	$399.99
HERO2 Cams	1080p/30fps	11 MP 10 fps burst	No	Yes (Sold Separately)	Yes	$279.99

* This is the max resolution in terms of HD resolution. You have the ability to lower this in the cameras which in results increases the fps.

** You are able to purchase the WiFi BacPac separately.

Which conditions/environments you will be in the majority of your use?

What you're using your GoPro with can determine which cam/edition you need to purchase.

Now that you've considered the features of the cameras and if the price is worth the activities you will be using it for, it is time to figure out which Edition you need. The White and Silver's come in only one, so you will have to purchase specific mounts/parts you will need separately (do the math, the Black Edition's with the mounts you need & WiFi accessories may be financially smart to purchase instead of a cheaper cam and everything else separately).

Do you snowboard, ski, or partake in other snow sports? Moto? Surf? Here's what's included in the cams:

• HERO3 White: Waterproof housing, rechargeable Li-ion battery, QR buckle, 1 curved and 1 flat adhesive mount, USB charging cable
• HERO3 Silver: Waterproof housing, rechargeable Li-ion battery, QR buckle, J-Hook buckle, 3-way pivot, 1 curved and 1 flat adhesive mount, USB Charging cable
• HERO3 Black (Adventure Edition): Waterproof housing, Wi-Fi remote + key ring, remote charging cable, rechargeable li-ion battery, QR buckle, J-Hook buckle, 3-way pivot, 1 curved and 1 flat adhesive mount, assorted mounts and hardware, USB charging cable
• HERO3 Black (Motorsports Edition): Waterproof housing, Wi-Fi remote + key ring, remote charging cable, rechargeable li-ion battery, QR buckle, J-Hook buckle, 3-way pivot, 1 curved and 1 flat adhesive mount, assorted mounts and hardware, USB charging cable
• HERO3 Black (Surf Edition): Waterproof housing, Wi-Fi remote + key ring, remote charging cable, rechargeable Li-ion battery, QR buckle, J-Hook buckle, 3-way pivot, surfboard mount
• HERO2 (Outdoor Edition): Waterproof housing, rechargeable Li-ion battery, USB cable, vented helmet strap, head strap, 2 curved and 2 flat surface mounts, 3-way pivot
• HERO2 (Motorsports Edition): Waterproof housing, HD skeleton housing, rechargeable Li-ion battery, USB cable, suction cup mount, J-Hook buckle, 2 curved adhesive mounts, 3 flat surface mounts, 3-way pivot arm
• HERO2 (Surf Edition): Waterproof housing, HD skeleton housing, rechargeable li-ion battery, USB cable, 2 surfboard mounts, FCS plug mount, floaty backdoor 

When attempting to choose what GoPro cam is right for you, be sure to keep these three aspects into consideration. Is the price right for you? Are the features necessary for your activities? Which mounts/accessories do you need for the conditions/environment/sports you will be partaking in? Be sure to post some videos you guys take, we're always interested in your uses of GoPro cams!

The chips are Bluetooth wireless speakers that fit into any helmet that is compatible (such as Smith or Giro's hollowed out ear-pads). They can be paired with any music playing device which has Bluetooth, such iPhones, Androids, or any other popular MP3 player. They also have a microphone to answer calls if you're ever hit up on the mountain.

What sets these apart from other drop-in speakers is their control system. As easy as we thought the other variations of this product came with their easily accessible control buttons , the Chips have only ONE button on each speaker. No PLAY/STOP button, no VOLUME UP/DOWN button. It is very revolutionizing. The way to use these isn't set in stone with how exactly to do so, but the number of times you press the left speaker you have volume control, or vice verse with answer phone calls on the right speaker. 

The founder and CEO of OT and our good friend Caro Krissman states that the Chips "will be a game-changer for helmet-wearing sports enthusiasts who want to stay connected without distracting wires hanging from beneath their helmets". MSRP is set right at $129.95, which is cheaper than the Giro Tune-Ups we carry. They unfortunately are not set out to be released until Winter of 2013, but when we get them in, you'll be the first to know!

Press Release

Features of the 2013 Giro Wireless TuneUps:

• Take/make calls
• Play/pause your music
• Track/volume control
• Works with smart phones that are bluetooth compatible
• 6.5 hours of operating time
• Compatible with all Bluetooth devices
• Removable speakers
• Adaptable speakers for Giro audio compatible helmets
• SKU: 2035135
• Brand title: GR TUNEUPS WIRELESS 13 GBL
• UPC: 768686860720
• MSRP: $150

These TuneUps have basically the same features as their previous versions. As you can see above, the control center is larger with thicker buttons, ensuring convenience for you as you ride. These also can clip into any snow helmet with straps as you can see below:

The control center can detect any music device/smart phone that allows bluetooth capability. You can also plug directly into your device with a standard 3.5mm if you wish. The TuneUps come with a converter cable for your choice of connectivity:

In my opinion, the speakers are cooler looking this year. Although you won't necessarily see them if they are hooked up inside of your ear pads, they are a sleek black color:

Here's the product as a whole. It comes with the speakers, control system, a USB chord for charging, and the two cables for either wireless or standard 3.5mm connectivity:

What's cool about these is the 6.5 hours of run time. I bring my laptop with me when I ride so I can charge it over night before I hit the slopes. I typically only ride about 3-5 hours a day so it is perfect in terms of running time. Although I'd like to say i'm the most popular kid on the slopes, I rarely do get calls, but if I do, I can answer it conveniently by pressing the middle button. MSRP is $150 and I find it to be well worth the price. If you aren't able to afford these, there is a cheaper version for drop-in speakers for only $24.95, however they are not bluetooth (but can be changed to do so with the combo kit for $59.95 which we also have). Check out my post about these here. 

Smith also has a pair of Bluetooth speakers for snow helmets but they are for $200 and offer merely the same exact features. 

These particular Bluetooth tuneups can last you a few years as they are very durable. Simplicity at it's finest; I couldn't think of any other features I'd like for speakers inside of my snow helmet. Be sure to check out our website for these bad boys, we offer free shipping and no tax. Happy riding!

Orthaheel is at it again with many brand new styles for their Spring/Summer 2013 collection. Mostly adding sandals, each includes the famous orthotic footbed so many of us have come to love. We already have a lot of these in stock so be sure to check out the purchase links I've provided. We offer no tax and free priority shipping. Here's a look at the options.

Anna Toe Post Sandal

Bali Slingback Sandal

Price: $79.95
Colors available: Black, Cobalt, Ivory, & Raspberry
Minimalized strappy sandals offering maximum style. Artfully stitched beading across the vamp hints of the exotic, while an adjustable heel strap provides added comfort. The Bali also offeres the faux cork-covered EVA footbed.

Carla II Toe Post Sandals

Price: $74.95
Colors available: Black Metallic, Bronze Metallic, Butter, Ivory, & Mint
The second and more improved version of the original popular Carla sandal, the on-trend metallics and sparkle make these toe post sandals glamorous, but the real jewel is the built-in orthotic footbed. Faux wood grain-covered EVA footbed.

Fiji Toe Post Sandal

Price: $74.95
Colors available: Black, Ivory, Jade, & Mustard
The Fiji is a toe post flip flop sandal with Earth-toned embellishments sewn into a patent PU upper with a faux cork-covered EVA footbed. Nature-inspired style meets natural relief.

Fleur II Toe Post Sandal

Price: $74.95
Colors available: Black, Cobalt, Jade, Mustard, Pewter, Raspberry, & Salmon
After hearing how popular the original Fleur sandal was, we knew we had to get it's second version. This toe post flip flop sandal with flower accent and soft microfiber covered EVA footbed adds a new dimension to wardrobes and helps realign deserving feet.

Julie Slingback Sandal

Kelly Strap Wedge Sandal

Price: $99.95
Colors available: Black & Bronze
Scaling new heights, Kelly features a modest two-inch wedge heel and aims to provide superior comfort and support. Faux snakeskin straps and earthy embellishments add to the worldly feminine appeal. Soft microfiber-covered footbed.

Layla II Adjustable Slides Sandal

Price: $74.95
Colors available: Black, Ivory, Brandy Crocodile, & Gunmetal Crocodile
Inspired by the island, this slip-on sandal with microfiber-covered EVA foot bed offers a metaphorical walk in the sand is available in a variety of both neutral and vibrant colors.

Maui Toe Post Sandal

Mia Slingback Sandal

Porto III Slide Sandals

Price: 74.95
Colors available: Black crocodile, Ivory crocodile, Brandy crocodile, Pewter crocodile
Orthaheel loved the Porto so much they've gone all the way to version III. It includes three adjustable straps across the vamp make this slide the perfect sandal for tailoring to individual fitting preferences. Metal accents along a faux patent crocodile upper add an alluring side to customization comfort of the sandal.

Ramba Toe Post Wedge Sandal

Price: $99.95
Colors available: Black, White, & Metal Multi
Style and support intertwine in this new toe post sandal. Braided straps make Ramba a versatile pairing, while the two-inch, modest wedge heel brings a heightened sense of fashion with great support. Soft microfiber-covered foot bed. 

A quote from our very own Bonnie Ramey:

It has been many years since I have been comfortable in sandals.  After learning about the Orthaheel brand, I have been able to wear sandals all day long with comfort!  Not only are they comfortable for us ladies with problem feet, BUT they are also very trendy NOT at all looking like your grandma’s shoes. 

The Adapt comes in black, blue, and pink. It can operate as far as 30 feet away. These things are pretty small, measuring just 1.8 in. X 1.5 in., as you can see it's comparison next to a quarter below. 

Here's how we create a wireless music experience for snow helmets. You first must enable bluetooth on your phone or MP3 player so that it recognizes the Adapt. Using our own OT drop-in speakers, we installed them normally into the helmet. The Adapt then hooks up to your listening device's cable and can clip onto your helmet to enable wireless listening. You'll just have to tuck in the wires somewhere within your helmet. Most helmets have areas to tuck in the wire seamlessly. We've demonstrated it below:

There you have it! Easy right?

The Adapt also has a built-in microphone. The controls allow you to increase/decrease volume, skip tracks, turn on/off the device, and answer phone calls as you please. If you've clipped your Adapt onto the side of your helmet as we did, you're able to answer the phone call and speak freely without having to use your hands (you'll have to press the button to accept the call, of course). If you're interested in the drop-in speakers we used in the tutorial above, check out our website link here (they're only $25). We also sell the Adapt and drop-in speakers Combo Kit for a better deal if you're looking for both.

Happy listening!

The GoPro craze is still very well alive and kicking. You've seen your cousin or friend post their video on Facebook and noticed how many likes they got, now it's time for you to buy your own with that new Christmas money you got from your retired grandparents.

GoPro currently has three models out, the original, HERO2, and HERO3. However, the answer to this question isn't what kind of camera to get (for this I would recommend reading my post about the GoPro HERO3's), but what kind of mounts and accessories you need for your particular interest. Let's review which types are best for snowboarding and skiing. 

The GoPro Helmet Mount is recommended when boarding

To get straight to the point and answer your question, the helmet mount is the most preferred when you're hitting the slopes. One commonality of boarding is that we all wear helmets (unless you lack common sense), and GoPro makes an excellent device to attach the camera to your helmet. You could very well use a mount on your snowboard, but the powder usually gets in the way and splashes onto your cam and mount. The camera also has a chance to peel off and you can lose it in the snow forever. The mounts that go on boards aren't as sturdy as the helmet mounts, such as the suction cup mount or surf mount. It isn't recommended to attach your camera to your skis. It's also better to have the point-of-view from yourself, as it looks better in videos. 

The Chest Mount Harness is extremely safe when boarding on the slopes with your camera

 The chest mount harness is also very stable and secure. It allows the camera to be safely attached to your chest. This is recommended because it isn't relying on adhesive or suction as the basis of it's mounting, but a strap which is secured to your body at all times. These are a little more expensive (about $40 retail) but are the safest bet in my opinion. 

Another route you may take is holding a standout pole while you ride. This allows for a very cool angle in your video, allowing you to film both yourself from a distance as if a camera man was following you or showing the route ahead while you ride. The only downfall to this is having to hold a pole the entire time, and there are chances of falling and breaking your camera. It is also not suitable for skiers since you're already holding a pole! This is only recommended if you're certain you won't eat it (don't be too cocky now!) or you're confident in the level of difficulty of the mountain you're shredding. We recommend the UK Pro Stand Poles that we carry. They are very cheap and work wonders. We've sold about 200 so far and have received positive reviews.

The pole mounts look awesome, but can be risky when riding difficult slopes

We've all seen the latest trend floating around -- whether it's at your local community college, shopping mall, or even on the slopes. Beard beanies! To be honest, we think it's pretty damn cool. I rocked it on the mountains last week and got a few comments, and better yet stayed warm at the same time. How convenient? We've checked out a few of the brands and have decided to put the Spacecraft Collective Scout Masks into our inventory.

What is this trend going around? A beard attached to a beanie? A beanie attached to a beard? It's all in your perception. I personally don't like growing out a huge beard because I can't stand the itchiness, and i'm a bit of a momma's boy. But hey, even if you DO have a nice, perfectly hand sculpted beard, this will help keep your face warm during those cold winters and at the same time make you look like the coolest cat in town.

Here is the Spacecraft Collective Scout Mask beard beanie. These bad boys come in quite a few colors. They're unisex -- it isn't made for men or women in particular either. We've just stocked up for winter with a lot of inventory.

Black BlueGrayOrangeRed

These are also more affordable than a few of the other competitors out there in the market. The standard "beard beanie" website you find on google has them up for almost $50 -- I wouldn't pay that much for a beanie. The $35 SpaceCraft Scout Masks are definitely affordable and of better quality -- their brand never fails. They have a reputation for a reason. 

The Scout Masks also have a fuller, more fluffy beard attached to them than most. This is more of a personal preference and something to think about when you're choosing your beard beanie. I personally like it because it is warmer and more comfortable since the material is acrylic and isn't very irritating.

Update: We've found a James Harden picture on instagram! Apparently a lot of fans are using the SpaceCraft Scout Mask for tributes to the player's beard. Check it out!

There are hard cases you can buy that do pretty much the same thing as this bad boy, however they cost much more. There is no big difference on the material of the outside, as long as you don't drop your case off of the empire state building. Here are some Pros for this great case:

• Extremely light weight (10 ounces -- about 1.5 lbs with a camera inside)
• Very manageable size (7.7 x 4.7 x 4 in)
• Compatible with all GoPro HD Camera models (HD1, 2, & the new 3)
• Compatible with all Contour cameras
• Fits Hero Camera, housing, bac pac accessories, memory cards, spare batteries in the top foam cut out
• The foam cut out lifts out and there is a second storage space perfect for cords and other GoPro mounts
• Lightweight, flexible black nylon case
• Rubber emblem and zipper pulls
• Sleek black color (looks pretty cool)

The inside of the UK Pro POV20LT

As stated above, the top layer is easily removable for extra storage of cables, wires, or components. I even like to store other things in there, like my cell phone, wallet, and keys if i'm going on a bike ride.

The inner layer of the UK Pro POV20LT

Here are a few cons about this case, however:

• It is not waterproof
• There is no strap that comes with it in case you want to carry it around as a backpack (there is a mini strap on the side you can attach something to, however)

Well, that's basically it folks. If you're looking for a hard shell/waterproof UK Pro case for GoPro or Contour cameras, we have those as well. I'd definitely recommend the POV20LT due to it's affordable price and durability. You can't really ask for more with a GoPro case. Be sure to use the coupon code on the side for 5% off! Let me know your thoughts or if you have any questions. Happy carrying.

Here's a video to introduce the product. Here's a link to purchase it. When my boss told me we were getting a $650 snow goggle to sell, I was baffled. What's the goggle do in order to justify the cost? We finally got them in a week ago and I was able to check it out. 

The word RECON isn't a style: it's a brand (Recon Instruments) that specializes in their MOD Live technology -- which the I/O Recon has. The MOD Live technology is a heads-up display designed to enrich your snow experience, with widescreen graphics INSIDE of the goggle. It's a mini screen that is attached to your goggle located on the lower right. So you can literally SEE a SCREEN while you ride. Sounds high-tech to me.

The MOD mini screen inside of the goggle

Special Features of the MOD Live in the Smith I/O Recon (video links included):

• Speed: Calculated by GPS combined with barometric pressure data, accurately see how fast you're shredding the slopes. 
• Jump Analytics: Seems a little out-of-date and difficult, but still a pretty cool concept. Know your distance, amplitude, and airtime while you ride.
• Vertical: Track your vertical feet by run, by day, and over the course of the season.
• Altitude: The onboard ailmeter tracks your altitude to any mountain summit. Follow your elevation up the peak, and down to the valley.
• Know the distance you've traveled.
• Locate yourself with the built-in GPS feature.
• Temperature
• Averages and Maximums
• Chrono/Tracker
• Run Counter
• Smartphone integration: Pair with your smartphone to view incoming calls and read text messages as you receive them.
• Navigation: Find your way around resorts easily, get to know your favorite runs by name, and easily track down points of interest.
• Resort Points of Interest
• Buddy tracking: Ideal for when you get separated from your group on the slope. Promise you won't use this feature for creeper purposes...
• Text Messaging
• Caller ID
• Music: Playlist mode puts your music at your fingertips, putting you in full control of your tunes as you ride.

Recon's Features

These features blew my mind. This MOD Live technology is definitely futuristic and reminds me of something they would use in the army. The RECON technology is also available with other brands, you can check them out on their site. But our favorite snow goggle maker so far is Smith and what's even better is the I/O goggle being attached.
 

Let's be honest: $650 is steep. If you have that kind of money to drop on this bad boy be our guest, but as of now my budget does not allow it (Christmas is coming up and grandpa needs a new iPod). If you snowboard/ski frequently and want to enhance your experience at least by 3X, give it a go. It's worth the money. It isn't half-assed and does what it says it does. I've linked it above a few times, but here's a link to our store product page. I set up a special promo code for those of you reading this post. Enter ALSBLOG1 for free shipping and 5% off (this goes for all of our products as well, not just the Smith I/O Recon. If you made it down this far I figure I'd reward you! Peace out guys.