Here in Oregon, we have a lot of fun in the winter. These ten winter tech devices aren’t all new, but many are getting smarter. We’ll also include some classic winter tech devices that everyone should have. If you are looking for something to spend your Christmas gift cards on, check out these ideas for some inspiration.
1. Bluetooth Beanies
Winter hats with speakers or headphone inserts are a huge improvement. You can listen to your music and podcasts on the go without fumbling with tangled cords and bulky clothing. Many styles offer Bluetooth technology that eliminates cords all together! Bluetooth beanies and other styles of winter hats with speakers are very affordable. You can get one for around $20. With such low prices and so much convenience, Bluetooth beanies are a winter tech device must-have for anyone who uses headphones.
2. Touchscreen Gloves
Another affordable winter tech device is touchscreen gloves. They cost about the same as normal gloves ($10-$20) but have special material on the fingers that allows you to use the touchscreen of your smartphone without taking your gloves off. Touchscreen gloves are a winter tech essential that everyone can enjoy!
3. Heated Hoodies, Vests, Jackets, and Scarfs
By now, we have the technology to heat just about anything. Heated hoodies, vests, jackets, and scarfs are fairly affordable and are great options for freeze-babies. They usually operate on either battery power or have a USB charger. Portable power banks can be used to re-charge if needed. If you plan on being outside in the cold for an extended period of time, heated clothing can help you stay more comfortable.
4. Winter Tech Devices: Smart Blankets
Even blankets are getting smarter! Smart blankets are luxurious winter tech devices that do more than traditional heated blankets. They have WiFi technology and can even be controlled with Alexa voice command from your phone or smart speaker. Smart blanket throws can be fairly affordable compared to conventional heated blankets. Or, you can go all-out with a more high-tech smart duvet with two-sided temperature control. The smart duvet also claims that the blanket can make the bed itself through air inflation!
5. Winter Tech Devices: Smart Humidifiers
Smart humidifiers are another smart home device that features WiFi and voice command technology. Winters can get dry, and adding humidity helps reduce allergens and add moisture to the air in your home. You’re not the only one who benefits either! Plants and pets also appreciate the added humidity. Smart humidifiers allow you to control their settings using voice commands or by using an app on your smartphone. Since they cost about the same as a conventional humidifier, it is worth getting the smart version with extra features.
6. RideOn Augmented Reality Goggles
Augmented Reality (AR) adds a layer of digital information to the world around you. It is different from virtual reality (VR) because you are not immersed. RideOn AR Ski Goggles are a great application of this technology. They provide you with the gear you already need and add even more functionality. According to the Wearable Tech website that retails them, they are still in beta testing and cost $1,200. However, the AR Ski Goggles have some impressive features such as personal stats, HD camera and video recording, virtual maps and locators, and overall high-quality goggle construction. There truly aren’t any other winter tech devices that are as advanced as this (maybe the snowblower robot)!
7. Winter Tech Devices: LED Snowboard Lights
Are you a snowboarder looking to pimp your ride? Take note from your favorite classic MTV show and add visibility and style to your snowboard with LED snowboard lights! High-quality LED snowboard lights cost around $200. They come with a small and discrete battery pack and a remote to change the light colors and patterns. You attach the lights to your board using extra-strong automotive-strength 3M adhesive tape and the lights are fully waterproof. The only drawback is that you do need to keep the battery pack in your pocket. It comes with a 9-ft cord that gives you plenty of length though. You can see how they are installed and used here before purchasing. Despite the cord, this is another winter tech device that is fun and exciting!
8. Superdroid RC Snowblower
This remote-controlled snowblower has some seriously amazing technology. At a cost of almost $10,000 it is not everyman’s snowblower. However, shoveling snow can be a literal pain. The Superdroid RC Snowblower has four-wheel drive, a compact 24″ snowblower, and operates with a wheelchair motor. It is heavy-duty, weighing about 400lbs with strong aluminum housing.
9. Heated Computer Mouse
For people with cold hands, the heated computer mouse is a great winter tech device! Keep your fingers from turning white with a heated mouse. You can also opt for a heated mouse pad or mouse pad that is shaped like a pouch to keep your fingers warm. These are especially good if you have to do outdoor computer work or if you have a drafty office! A heated computer mouse is affordable too. They generally cost $15 to $25, so they are a very economical comfort item. Heated mouse pads like this one are super cute and you can get one for less than $20!
10. Light Therapy Lamps
Do you ever feel like you just don’t get enough sun in the winter? If lack of light is dragging you down, light therapy lamps are a great way to perk up your mood and reduce fatigue. Light therapy has been used for a long time to treat people with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). However, they can help people in general who feel like their circadian rhythms are off-beat. Light therapy lamps aim to deliver up to 10,000 LUX of glare-free white light while blocking most UV rays. Size and distance are important when shopping for a light therapy lamp, most people use them by sitting about a foot away for 15 to 20 minutes per day. You want the lamp to have a larger projection area, similar to the size of a tablet. Small lamps will not be effective. A good quality light therapy lamp costs about $150 to $250.
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