Summer is here, and with the hot weather comes a new set of challenges when it comes to staying comfortable and healthy. Fortunately, wearable technology has advanced significantly in recent years, and there are now plenty of options available to help us stay cool, protect us from the sun, and even monitor our health. We reached out to several experts to get their take on the must-have wearables for the summer of 2021.
- UV Protection Wearables
According to Dr. Karen K. L. Oh, a dermatologist at the University of Washington, UV protection wearables are a must-have for the summer of 2021. These wearables can track the amount of UV radiation you’re being exposed to and alert you when it’s time to reapply sunscreen or seek shade. Some popular options include the Shade UV sensor and the June bracelet.
- Cooling Wearables
When it comes to staying cool in the summer heat, wearable technology can be a game-changer. Dr. Ray Casciari, a pulmonologist at St. Joseph Hospital in Orange, CA, recommends the Mission Cooling Gaiter. “It’s great for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and running,” he says. “It cools your neck and face and can be worn in multiple ways.”
- Fitness Trackers
Summer is a great time to get outside and get active, and a fitness tracker can help you monitor your progress and stay motivated. According to Dr. Rishi Manchanda, a public health expert and founder of HealthBegins, the Fitbit Charge 4 is a great option for summer. “It’s waterproof, so you can wear it in the pool or the ocean, and it has GPS, so you can track your runs and hikes,” he says.
- Smart Sun Hats
For those who want to combine style and function, smart sun hats are a great option. These hats come equipped with UV sensors and can provide real-time data on your sun exposure. Dr. Oh recommends the ShadeCraft Sunflower, which is not only a smart sun hat but also has built-in speakers and can connect to your phone to play music.
- Swim Tracking Wearables
Swimming is a great way to beat the summer heat, and there are now wearables that can help you track your swims and monitor your progress. Dr. Casciari recommends the Moov Now swim tracker, which can track your swim strokes, lap times, and even your breathing.
- Mosquito Repellent Wearables
Mosquitoes can be a major annoyance in the summer, but wearable technology can help keep them at bay. Dr. Oh recommends the Kite Mosquito Patch, which is a small, wearable patch that repels mosquitoes for up to 48 hours. “It’s perfect for camping, hiking, or any outdoor activity where mosquitoes are a problem,” she says.
- Fitness Watches
If you’re looking for a wearable that can do it all, a fitness watch is a great option. These watches can track your steps, monitor your heart rate, and even provide real-time coaching during workouts. Dr. Manchanda recommends the Garmin Forerunner 945, which he says is “one of the most advanced fitness watches on the market.” It has GPS, music storage, and advanced training metrics for runners and triathletes.
In conclusion, wearable technology has come a long way in recent years, and there are now plenty of options available to help us stay cool, protect us from the sun, and monitor our health during the summer months. Whether you’re looking for UV protection wearables, cooling wearables, or fitness trackers, there’s a wearable out there that can help you stay comfortable and healthy all summer long.
