Rip Curl Search: A Wearable Wave Tracker for Surfers

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With the booming of Google Glass, “wearable technology” becomes the most popular keyword in 2014. Many tech-based companies strive to create these applicable, sophisticated devices.

Rip Curl, a major Australian designer, manufacturer, and retailer of surfing sportswear has joined the battle field by launching its  multi-platform, wearable device called Rip Curl Search.  Basically, the device is a waterproof GPS surf watch that allows surfers to find the perfect waves around the world, record their performances and personal stats, and share the data via social media. Created by VML in Sydney, Australia, the device is powered by Facebook Connect. It lets surfers log all their sessions, challenge friends, create surf clubs, protect secret spots, track their fastest waves, longest waves, how far they have paddled and share their stats on Facebook.

The device will automatically inform surfers about the weather conditions. Users can also add photos to enliven the moments.

A similar tool named Afterguard has been released before. Both of them are waterproof, yet this one is for surfers while Afterguard is made for yacht racers.

Here is the (rather) complete story behind the Rip Curl Search: