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.
Price: About $50.
Solio Hybrid 1000 solar-powered recharger
If you’re going to be bringing your gadgets along with you when you’re outdoors this summer, this solar-powered recharger should also come along for the trip. The Hybrid 1000 includes a built-in carabiner and cable, and will support most PDAs, MP3 players, digital cameras and handheld games. Solio says the charger stores power for up to one year.
Price: About $80
Plantronics Discovery 925 Bluetooth earpiece
There’s nothing worse than looking good on the beach, but then accessorizing with a bulky, ugly Bluetooth headset. The new Discovery 925 earpiece (Plantronics doesn’t even call it a headset) is fashionable, lightweight and very comfortable, using a gel-based pad to connect to the outside of the ear instead of going in the ear canal. Call quality is good, and it comes with a USB or carrying case charger.
Price: About $150
IOGEAR GearJuice Rescue Charger
If you’re driving anywhere this summer or need some emergency power for your cell phone, this one AA-battery-powered device can provide an instant energy charge for cell phones or other devices, giving you an additional 15 minutes of talk time or usage. The Rescue Charger connects via mini-USB to most portable devices.
Price: About $12
What’s on your hot list?
We want to hear from YOU. What are the summer’s hottest gadgets (other than the alleged new iPhone)?
Plus, watch Keith Shaw have some summer gadget fun in the latest Cool Tools video:
