Revolutionize Your Workouts with Engo 2 AR Smart Sunglasses
For fitness enthusiasts who thrive on precise data, workouts have transformed into a highly analytical experience. Cyclists, in particular, can often be seen tracking metrics such as average speed and power output on spreadsheets. While enjoying a leisurely ride, the constant need to glance at bike computers can become distracting. However, ActiveLook’s AR Smart Sunglasses, specifically the Engo 2, aim to elevate your experience by allowing you to focus on the road while effortlessly accessing essential stats.
Engineered for Optimal Performance
Available at a price of $299, or $349 for photochromic lenses, the Engo 2 AR Smart Sunglasses seamlessly connect with devices like Garmin bike computers, Apple Watches, and various fitness trackers. These innovative glasses project vital data onto the upper inside section of the right lens. It is worth noting that Garmin stands out as the only bike computer currently supported by the Engo 2.
Distinctive Design and Innovative Features
From a distance, the Engo 2 resembles standard sports sunglasses with its wide and curved lenses. However, a unique attribute is the small metal plate situated over the nose bridge, serving as a sensor. With a simple swipe of your finger across this plate, you can switch between different display views, although it requires a firm touch, especially on those sweaty days.
Despite the advanced technology, these AR Smart Sunglasses do weigh slightly more than typical cycling sunglasses. Specifically, the Engo 2 weighs around 36 grams for the standard model and 41 grams for the larger design. Initially, you might notice the extra weight, but most users quickly adapt and become less conscious of it as time goes on.
Easy Setup Process
To begin using the Engo 2, download the ActiveLook app from your preferred app store. Once powered on, pairing the sunglasses with your phone is simple. The app carefully guides you through the setup process, including calibrating the head-up display.
For those who own an Apple Watch, you can connect the Engo 2 to initiate workouts without needing to interact with your phone. However, it’s important to mention that if you’re solely using the Engo 2, your data options from the Apple Watch might feel somewhat restricted. You can monitor heart rate, speed, elapsed time, and distance, among other key statistics.
Connecting with Garmin Devices
For cyclists, connecting the Engo 2 to a Garmin cycling computer unlocks the device’s full potential. Although the connection process requires navigating through the Garmin ecosystem, serious athletes often find it worthwhile. Start by downloading the ActiveLook app from Garmin’s ConnectIQ platform and installing it on your cycling computer.
Once synced, configuring the data display can be a bit challenging. It involves manually entering a list of data fields into the device. This approach may not be the most user-friendly, so having a laptop or tablet on hand for reference can be incredibly helpful.
Performance on the Ride
During various rides, including both solo and group outings, the utility of the Engo 2 AR Smart Sunglasses became immediately apparent. The display is carefully positioned for optimal visibility, requiring a slight glance up and to the left to access your data. After a few rides, users find it becomes second nature to ignore the display and maintain focus on the road ahead.
The display features include:
- Battery percentage
- Current time
- User-configurable data rows
Additionally, the Engo 2 smartly adjusts its brightness according to the surrounding lighting, making it easy to read in various conditions. The estimated battery life reaches up to 12 hours, but be aware that some users occasionally face issues with the magnetized charging connector.
Practical Advantages for Athletes
The Engo 2 offers numerous advantages, especially during high-intensity workouts. Whether you’re engaging in interval training or pacing yourself in a race, the heads-up display allows athletes to monitor their power output and other critical metrics without diverting their gaze. For example, during a lengthy 141 km road race, having instant access to power output data can significantly aid in managing effort levels, particularly when riding in a dense pack of cyclists.
Challenges and Considerations
While the Engo 2 has many strong points, users may face a few challenges:
- A slight lag of two to four seconds may occur between the data updates shown on the bike computer and the Engo 2.
- The sunglasses might feel like they slip down your nose, but this can be addressed by using the adjustable strap included with the product.
- Occasional issues with the swipe function, especially while switching between different data screens.
Some cyclists have reported intermittent problems when using the Engo 2 with certain Garmin devices, such as connection drops or sensor disconnections. However, many of these issues tend to relate to the specific Garmin model being used.
Final Insights
The Engo 2 AR Smart Sunglasses signal a remarkable advancement in how cyclists manage their performance metrics. They effectively bridge the gap between monitoring essential data and ensuring safety while riding. 🚴♂️
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