It wasn’t long ago the wearables market was primarily saturated with fitness trackers and smartwatches, yet little else. Of course, that’s still the case today especially when it comes to fitness trackers. There are so many brands and models out there it’s a bit ridiculous really.
But when you start getting specific that’s when you see the cracks. In particular, with smartwatches, there always seems to be bulky, masculine looking models while there’s not much in the way of feminine designs. The same is true if you’re more into chic or fashion-oriented gear. The original Samsung Galaxy Gear, for instance, is absolutely hideous.
You could argue that wearables and smartwatches have come a long way since then. Just take a look at something like the Misfit Vapor, Verizon Wear 24, or Tag Heuer Connected. They are positively stunning.
But still, they pander only to a small portion of consumers. What about women who love sports or have an active lifestyle? What about expecting mothers or your average fashion-conscious woman? None of those people mentioned want to look like a geek with a huge brick on their wrist. It doesn’t look or feel good. They need something that’s more personalized to their tastes.
Brands are finally starting to realize there are more people out there that might be interested in wearables. That might have a little something to do with the fact that the wearable industry is estimated to be worth $25 billion by 2019.
Whatever the case, there are a lot more options for everyone these days, and women are no exception.
The Best Smart Wearables for Women
Surprisingly, some of the best wearables on the market – or coming soon – aren’t even wrist-based. You’ll notice a variety of options from a smart ring to a smart sports bra. All of them serve a unique purpose, which is important.
Furthermore, there’s less an emphasis on the tech side of things like massive screens and powerful internal hardware and more on the overall appearance and style. No doubt, fashionistas, and style-conscious folks will approve.
Take the June bracelet by Netatmo, for example. It’s an attractive band with a gem right on top. It doesn’t look like anything more than a piece of jewelry. But it actually monitors the UV exposure levels of the wearer to keep them safe and informed. All this information is then synced with a mobile app (iOS only for now), letting you know when it’s time to step into the shade or put on sunscreen.
It looks great but it’s also functional.
Just like the Misfit Bloom, which is also a piece of jewelry… well, sort of. It’s a necklace that acts as a fitness and sleep monitor for whoever is wearing it. All tracked information is synced to a mobile app for Android and iOS devices.
What’s truly stunning is the jewelry. It’s crafted from hand-finished stainless steel and has an amazing geometric design. And it’s reasonably priced too, at $50 with no discount or sale. Now, that’s the kind of thing we – and consumers – love to see!
Embrace the Niche Side of Things
Then you have devices like the Willow, a wearable breast pump for breastfeeding mothers. Not everyone will be able to take advantage of the technology for obvious reasons, but those that can surely appreciate it.
It makes a tedious and involved process much more convenient. The Willow pump fits right inside your bra and has an internal bag. It pumps as you do other things, like work. When the bag is full you’ll get a notification and you can either continue pumping or move on. All your stats – like milk volume – are tracked and displayed via the mobile app too.
It’s niche devices like this that really put the wearable industry on the map. Not everyone has a used for a small wrist wearable that tracks steps or sleep patterns. But a breast pump that can be concealed in your bra and keep busy Mom’s hands-free? Yes, please!
So, you see. Wearable companies are starting to embrace the niche side of things the market is picking up speed. Plus, it’s always nice to see technology moving in new directions.
What do you make of all this?
Sources:
https://www.wareable.com/smartwatches/next-gen-smartwatches-coming-2015-2016
https://ideaing.com/ideas/best-smart-wearables-for-women
https://shop.willowpump.com/products/the-willow-pump?variant=32043017228
