The ’80s mantra “He who dies with the most toys wins” is a load of crap. Acquiring nice things isn’t the point of life, or the secret of happiness. Nevertheless: Sometimes it’s kind of awesome. Here, part three of our four-part series on the year’s 20 best new products (Part I here, and Part II here).
Zeal Optics Transcend GPS Enabled Ski Goggles
Video games’ Heads-Up-Display (HUD) is now a reality. LCD displays on the lower right corner of these goggles include real time speed, altitude and vertical odometer, as well as a Google Maps overlay. $539
Nikon D7000
Equipped with Nikon’s new EXPEED 2 processor to handle its whopping 16.2 mega-pixel resolution, this camera can shoot HD video with full-time 39-point auto-focus. It also comes with a three-inch LCD screen, 50-millisecond shutter response — and a not-unreasonable price tag. $1,280, without lens
Not a Replica Straight Razor (pictured)
To celebrate its 45th anniversary, Baxter of California has created a straight razor for men who appreciate details, like hand-ground blue Hart steel, and a firearm-inspired look. Not for the faint of heart. US $240
Filson Cowichan Sweater
Seattle’s century-old outdoors outfitter, Filson, has introduced this hearty wool sweater in a limited run of 250. Hand-knit by the Salish of BC’s Cowichan Valley, this raven-adorned sweater will likely age better than you. US $295
La Boite Concept Laptop Table
You’re probably not a serious enough hi-fi obsessive to need a laptop desk with a table-top control panel, dedicated USB soundcard and seven built-in speakers, equipped with WideSound technology for sound-reflecting. Then again, sometimes necessity isn’t necessary. $1,315
