Oakley Meta Vanguard Review: Designed for the Active Lifestyle

Adaptable eyewear tailored for athletics

Whenever I unbox a new set of Meta's smart glasses, I follow my own established routine. The steps involve linking my Instagram, WhatsApp, and Spotify accounts. Next, I tackle the intricate process of adjusting Bluetooth configurations to ensure that Meta AI can suitably notify me of incoming messages and calls. To enhance user experience, I upgrade the video settings for the best quality and alter Meta AI’s voice to 'English (UK),' embodying the tone of Judi Dench.

However, the $499 Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses add a unique step: configuring the customizable 'action button.' While this feature isn’t what excites me most about the glasses, it does set them apart distinctly from others in Meta's range.

Unlike other models which simply refresh the existing design, like the second-gen Ray-Ban and Oakley HSTN glasses, the Vanguard offers something truly new. Although not intended for casual daily wear unless dedicated to sport, they're packed with enhanced capabilities. You’ll find more robust speakers, upgraded camera technology, and direct integration with fitness apps like Strava and Garmin. While they won't replace my usual sunglasses, they're perfect for integrating into my workout routine.

Reimagined design with athletes in mind

It's apparent the Oakley Meta Vanguard is tailored for sports enthusiasts. These sunglasses may resemble the kind you picture on a school coach or an ardent cyclist next door. The wraparound frames, paired with vibrant, reflective lenses, unmistakably sport an athletic vibe.

The model I evaluated featured black frames with Oakley’s signature 'Prizm 24K' orange lenses. Though not polarized, these lenses are popular among athletes for their ability to accentuate environmental contrast. They performed well in both bright and dim conditions. An advantage is the option to swap lenses (at a cost of $85 each), catering to different lighting or color preferences. Notably, they don’t accommodate prescription lenses.

While the style might not attract everyone, the design supports a distinctive functionality unseen in Meta’s previous glasses. Most strikingly, the camera is centered right above the nose, with its indicator light also centrally positioned at the top.

Consistent with other Meta models, volume and track control are managed via a right-side touchpad. Yet, the photo and video capture button is now underneath the frame for easier access when wearing a cap or helmet. Behind this is the 'action button,' programmable through the Meta AI app.

Optimized for performance

Vanguard glasses emphasize athletic features, including built-in integrations with Garmin and Strava. When paired with compatible Garmin equipment, the glasses can auto-capture clips during milestones like reaching particular heart rate zones. You can also request Meta AI for real-time updates on your stats.

Even without a Garmin device on hand, I briefly explored these features during Meta Connect. While some athletes might still prefer checking datasheets directly, voice commands offer a convenient alternative.

Strava integration allows overlays of your activity data, such as distance and heart rate, onto photos. Although sharing personal workout stats might not be everyone's preference, it presents a more engaging option than a basic Strava screenshot. Real-time video stat updates can be especially captivating during intense races or adventurous rides.

One limitation is that such integrations are currently confined to Garmin and Strava. However, Meta hints at potential future expansions to accommodate more applications in its smart glass platform.

Advantages extend to casual athletes

Sporting improved audio, the glasses deliver louder and clearer sound suitable for noisy settings or windy trails. During tests, I managed to comfortably listen to podcasts without maxing out the volume, demonstrating the high-quality output.

Positioning the camera at the center minimizes obstructions from helmets or hats in your images. This was a partial fix since my helmet tip occasionally edged into the frame, but it’s now easier to crop out.

Equipped with a 12MP ultra-wide camera, the Vanguard also features enhanced video stabilization, which effectively mimics a compact action cam. Adjustable stabilization levels ensure steady captures, with a default setting that generally delivers impressive results.

Captured moments and battery prowess

These are Meta's first glasses to provide both hyperlapse and slow-motion recording. By simply saying, 'Hey Meta, start a hyperlapse,' you activate a fast-playback recording. Although less smooth than what you’d achieve with a GoPro, it presents a novel feature, albeit without manual adjustments.

Conversely, slow-motion recordings were much clearer. This feature shines when capturing playful pets or children, even if not common for sporty pursuits. Hyperlapse and slow-motion are slated to roll out across more Meta models.

Boasting an enhanced battery life, the shades outlast competitors like the Ray-Ban and HSTN variants due to larger frames accommodating a bigger energy source. It provides about nine hours of usage or six with non-stop audio, which was consistent with my experience when timed.

I'm particularly eager to see their performance in cold environments like snowboarding. Meta assures an optimized battery for diverse temperatures and, with an IP67 rating, resilience against snow immersion.

Is the investment justified?

Despite Meta’s success with smart glasses, they're still a niche interest. Oakley’s Vanguard, at a hefty $499, further narrows its audience to dedicated sporty individuals.

While it might feel costly for occasional wear, committed runners, cyclists, and hikers will find value here. The advanced camera functions, alongside comprehensive app integrations, cater perfectly to those who want to capture every thrilling achievement.