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Hottest gadgets for summertime fun

By: Keith Shaw On: 29 Jun 2008 For: Network World (US) (at) Creator

Summer's here, and the time is right, for checking out the latest and greatest gadgets for outdoor enjoyment, fun, or productivity. Sit back, grab a cold one and view our choices for the best new tools for the summer season.

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Atlantic EGO Ice iPod speaker system

If you're going to be anywhere near water this summer, you'll want to keep your iPod dry with this system, but it's more than just a waterproof case. The EGO Ice also includes speakers to let you blare your Bon Jovi to everyone at the pool. Also includes a shower hook if you want to sing in the shower.

Price: About $90.

Iqua Sun 603 solar-powered Bluetooth headset

The problem with a lot of Bluetooth headsets is trying to remember how much power you have left in the device. With this headset, all you need is the power of the sun, or any available light (indoors too), to recharge the device. If you're going to be out in the sun this summer, use the sun to act as your re-charger.

Price: $100, available in June.

LifeGear Crank-Powered AM/FM/Weather Band/NOAA Alert Radio and 0.5 watt flashlight

If you plan on camping or hiking this summer, this could be a lifesaver device. The flashlight can be powered by simply cranking the handle, or it uses three AAA batteries as well. Once charged, the device includes an emergency flashlight, flashers and siren for alerting people to where you are. The radio includes the NOAA channel for urgent weather updates and alerts.

Price: $40

Targus SonicPak backpack (with built-in speakers)

Take your music with you anywhere, by connecting an iPod or MP3 player through this backpack's back pocket. The removable front panel protects the device from the elements through a water-resistant zipper and EVA panel. Speakers are powered through batteries.

Price: $100, available in June.

Coghlan's assorted lighting products

If you're out at night and need some quick light, some of these accessories from Coghlan's should fill your needs. The Micro Lantern offers 25 hours of steady light or 50 hours of flashing light (for emergencies), and clips onto a keychain. The lightweight LED Clip-on Headlight can be attached to a hat or visor to provide instant light, and includes a red filter for discrete light and night vision preservation. The 0.5-watt LED Headlight provides a focused beam of light, offers up to 20 lumens of light, and can last for 9.5 hours (includes flashing emergency light too).

Price: Varies, check retailers like REI for more details.

Cellpoint Flamingo Music earphones

One of the problems with music headphones when you're out and about is that they tend to fall out of your ears, or you have to jam them into your ear canal. These earphones attach to the outside of your ears, but do so in a way to keep them secure for outdoor activities. The earphones come with six sizes of clip-on attachments for personalized comfort.

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Keith Shaw is a contributor to the International Data Group (IDG) News Service, which publishes global technology stories from bureaus around the world to more than 300 publications in more than 60 countries.

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Comments (6)

school of hard knocks: by Rull 8/11/2008 12:00:00 AMI like that there are still snobs in TO trying to show they are special.
Sandwich Maker: by Ian Paisley 7/16/2008 12:00:00 AMI like da iPod
Techie Nerd: by G-Unit 7/16/2008 12:00:00 AMI like the Commodore 64.
Techin Guru: by Reggie Palifson 7/16/2008 12:00:00 AMI like da TRS-80
Pops : ): by S... 7/16/2008 12:00:00 AMI like da TI-99 Beat da he11 outa da Altair-8800
Where did you people go to school: by Chip Douglas 7/16/2008 12:00:00 AMI like the fact that I can spell and write proper sentences! The waterproof Ipod case is a brilliant idea but like all 'waterproof' devices, I'd like to see it put through the test.

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