SPORTS TECHNOLOGY TO MAKE YOU FASTER…STRONGER…BETTER

BY EVAN MONROE

Babolat Pure Drive Lite Tennis Racquet
Using sensors integrated into its handle, this racquet tracks type and number of strokes (forehand, backhand, serve, smash) spin level, ball impact, location, total and in motion play time, plus power, endurance, technique, consistency, and overall energy. Its elliptical shape helps with added resistance against torque, and the frame fl exes for increased power. $195, tenniswarehouse.com

The Aexos Halo
After completing tests with the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Special Operations Forces, Aexos launched a Kick starter campaign to fuel manufacturing of its whiplash and concussion injury reducing Halo shirt. During sports play, the material remains soft and flexible, but stiffens during impact to slow motion rate of both head and neck, “reducing major biomechanics factors of injury and concussion,” the company explained. Available this fall; “early bird” rates begin at $120. kickstarter.com

LID Plico Helmet
A space efficient bike helmet produced from recycled components, LID designed its Plico to be foldable, as one of the major hassles for commuter bike owners and Citi Bike riders is what to do with helmets when not wearing them. It also self adjusts to your head shape; put it on and get the right fit, right away. $110, lidhelmet.com

Axe Handle Bat
An entirely new concept, Axe bats are built according to the principal that the old round knob simply does not help hitters. Instead, this patented handle puts a bat at the fingertips, for a consistent swing plane and a freer release, akin to how a traditional fax is held. $150, usabatting.com

K2 Spyne 110 Ski Boot
This boots uses USB rechargeable Thermic heat technology built right into the liners, and its “Navicular Punch” a bump pre formed in the navicular area of the medial ankle helps reduce pressure on an area of the foot where many skiers experience stress injuries. $299, saintbernard.com

Tracktics
Yeah, yeah, another sports tracker, right? Oh no, my little soccer mom (or pop)! Designed for professional soccer players in Germany, this measures a blizzard of data that’s applicable to a variety of sports including top speed, distance walking versus running, sudden stops, and other field activities, plus its tactical heat map (that’s right) tracks a player’s position on the field and helps determine how well he or she sets up for scores and other areas of game influence. $140, tracktics.com