Extreme sport enthusiasts have had moments they’ve wished to capture on film whether it was the amazing ski-run or the the scene from a paraglider. Holding a normal camcorder is bulky, ties up one hand, and makes it harder to balance. Not to mention the dangers of damaging the camcorder or getting hurt. VholdR hopes to solve those issues with their new wearable ContourHD 1080p camcorder that can survive through the harshest of conditions.

A quick look at the VholdR’s website reveals recordings of the camera in action during base jumps, mountain biking, and backcountry ski trips. The ContourHD 1080p camera mounts onto just about anything: bike handlebars, ski helmets, goggles, or even cars. It is clear that this camcorder can go places that other 1080p camcorders can not. It sports a dual laser for alignment with a 180 degree rotating lens. This ensures a calibrated shot even if it’s mounted sideways. Unlike competitors such as the Go Pro Camera, the ContourHD does not look like a boxy point and shoot camera shoved in a waterproof case. Instead, it packed in a sleek and stylish black anodized aluminum body that’s shock resistant. VholdR claims that it can hold its own through snow and all types of debris. Plus, its not bulky either, it weighs just 4.3oz. To stay compact, the camcorder uses a microSD (16GB max) for storing recordings. One charge is expected to last for capturing 3 hours of content. The ContourHD is ready out of the box since it comes packed with a 2GB microSD card.

Removing gloves to fiddle with a tiny record button on a camcorder is always a hassle. Fortunately, the CountourHD camcorder has a large sliding switch on top to begin recording. This feature should come in handy to initiate recordings while moving. It allows sport enthusiasts to focus on what they do best and less about getting their camcorder to work. Other features include a fairly accessible switch to toggle between HD and SD mode to save space. VholdR’s included video editing software offers the ability to edit recordings too. It’s a complete package, all the tools to needed to record, save, and share videos online are included.

Even if you are not jumping off cliffs or doing backflips on your bike, the camcorder can still be used as handheld device due to its compact form factor. It is not limited to any one sport or situation. The ContourHD is available in 2 models; the standard ContourHD 720p and the ContourHD 1080p. They cost $250 and $330 respectively. Keep an eye out for Skatter Tech’s in-depth review in the coming weeks.

Buy: ContourHD for $250 | ContourHD 1080p for $330
Links: VholdR.com ContourHD

“Sony was the first to introduce a travel-sized camcorder with 8 mm technology in the 1980’s, and it revolutionized the travel and electronics industries,” said Kelly Davis, director of camcorder marketing at Sony Electronics. “This new model is a great example of our expertise in miniaturization, as well as advanced imaging technologies with features like face detection.”

The compact HDR-TG1 HD camcorder will become available next month (May 2008). The current manufacturer’s suggested retail price is set at $900. When it becomes available it can be purchased on SonyStyle.com. in Sony Retail Stores, or through authorized dealers. Pre-orders begin on April 4th.

Links: SonyStyle.com