Top running-related products from CES 2019

The Consumer Electronics Show takes place annually in Vegas. While it’s not a running expo, it does bring together some of the biggest companies in tech and usually some interesting exercise gadgets shake out. 

RELATED: Why free weights or bodyweight exercises trump machines

Here are some of the products we think runners will get into in 2019. 

OptiShokz Sunglasses

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsGkCgQBxbc/

OptiShokz sunglasses are bone conduction sunglasses that allow runners to hear the world around them while simultaneously listening to music.  Bone conduction technology means that runners don’t have to place anything in their inner ear to hear their music or phone conversation. The company started by making wireless headphones that deliver sound through transducers that guide mini vibrations through the cheekbones to the inner ears. The company says, “We made open-ear listening relevant and have now set our sights on making audio sunglasses mainstream.” These sunglasses allow you to pair your phone through Bluetooth to listen to music or take calls on the move. You don’t need to hold anything or have anything in your ears. This will allow runners to remain alert to the cars, cyclists and pedestrians around them. 

RELATED: Six unwritten rules of the running path

JaxJox KettlebellConnect

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bsbg-omlJgK/

Free weights can be a great part of a strength program for runners. The KettlebellConnect functions as six kettlebells in one (12, 18, 24, 30, 36 and 42-pounds). You can change the number on the digital display and watch the scale add or subtract weight in only five seconds. The battery lasts for 14 hours so you could use this training tool for upwards of a week, depending on how often you’re training, without having to recharge it. 

North Face Futurelight

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bshdfi2FLGm/

The North Face is calling this product ground-breaking waterproof technology. Futurelight allows fabric to be equal parts breathable and waterproof, something that shoe and apparel companies have always struggled to achieve with outer layers. When runners are sweating, breathable clothing is key to a comfortable run. This mesh-like structure is reportedly created through a process called nano-spinning which is supposed to create enough space for the fabric to breathe, without allowing water from rain or snow to pass through. 

Impossible Burger 2.0

https://www.instagram.com/p/BnrZln3H_Jy/

Impossible Foods has launched a new burger that is entirely vegan and gluten-free. The burger is made of soy protein over grain, which was reportedly a big criticism of the older version. The burger contains no hormones, cholesterol or antibiotics and it’s kosher- and halal-certified. Increasingly runners are turning to a diet with less animals products and some are going entirely vegan. Whether you’re committed to a plant-based diet or a devoted carnivore, consider trying this meat alternative.