I’m what you might call an enthusiastic skier and snowboarder, but not necessarily an avid one. Nevertheless, I’m always ready to hit the slopes and test out some new technology in the process. That new technology is Carv 2, the second-generation training device that delivers real-time analysis and coaching while you ski. With the sleek gadget and its advanced sensors in my possession, it was off to the nearest slopes. Here’s a rundown of my experience.
How Does Carv 2 Work?
Like virtually any training wearable, Carv 2 uses advanced sensors to track your metrics while you ski. Meanwhile, AI-powered technology takes the analysis to new heights for a more in-depth look at movements, angles, posture, and speed. Select “Active Coach” with “audio on” and throw in some AirPods and you can get real-time coaching while you ski, complete with challenges and pointers.
Carv 2 offers different options and tiers based on the coaching you want and your personal skill level. For intermediate skiers, the device can help improve wedging and turning as you build toward harder runs. For experts, meanwhile, the device will help you become a true master of form and technique alike, preparing you for the most daunting runs.
Carv 2 Design
I missed the boat on the original Carv, which supposedly worked as intended but also had some design issues. The second iteration is reportedly less intrusive than its precursor, taking the form of a compact sensor that’s basically the size of a large flash drive. In addition to a rechargeable USB-C port, the sensor features a handy clip around the back. Taking one for a test drive is as simple as clipping it to your ski boot, selecting a coaching level on the smartphone app, and hitting the slopes.
Does Carv 2 Actually Work?
I’m an intermediate skier who spent the day with Carv 2 in “Active Coach” mode. I attached the compact unit to my ski boot, slipped my iPhone into my jacket pocket, and put an AirPod in each ear. Down came the ski visor, and off I went for a series of relatively easy runs. The app has every slope mapped out in advance in addition to other useful features.
Immediately, the real-time coaching kicked into gear. With a focus on balance and hip movement, the virtual coach provided me with targets to hit and then made a reward sound every time I hit the target. The game-like process allowed me to improve my balance and posture alike quickly. When I grew weary of having a voice in my ear, I slid the audio into the “off” position on the app and continued skiing. All the while, Carv 2 was using sensors and AI to track my progress for subsequent coaching and review.
To explore the app in full was to gain insight into everything from my balance to the angle of my skis while turning to the percentage of time during which my skis were parallel. People of every skill level can reap benefits from the app, whether it be through the coaching challenges or the analytics. Educational and fun, this technology helped me improve at first use and will surely do so down the road. Highly recommended.
