Garmin Forerunner 210 GPS-Enabled Sport Watch with Heart Rate Monitor

Overall Rating:

Retail Price: $299.99

Amazon Price: $249.99

One of the best features of the Garmin Forerunner® 210 is its ease of set up. Through it, even beginners or first time running trainers will be able to immediately benefit from this excellent watch. After charging the watch and booting it up, you will be presented with a set of questions that would help you fine tune your watch. After this initial configuration, you can now immediately take it out and do your runs. With this kind of set up, even the amateur runners and the beginners can use it without any kind of hassle.

The Garmin Forerunner® 210 is not just catered to the amateur or novice users but has functions that are made for the advanced and experienced runners. The set up may be made easy for beginners but this running watch is actually powerful enough to satisfy the needs of the more advanced runners. You will be pleased with the Heart rate monitor, auto lap, interval training, and the heart rate based calorie computation capabilities that are innately stored in this running watch. With all of these features the Garmin Forerunner® 210 is truly a perfect gadget for those who want more functionality in their running watches.

Aside from the internal capabilities of the Garmin Forerunner® 210, this excellent running watch is also aided by a variety of external items. First off, this watch is compatible with the Garmin Training Center software. This software is brilliant for being able to properly track your progress throughout your training. You would be able to transfer the data gathered by your running watch during your training to the software for proper analysis and training suggestions. Also, the Forerunner 210 is compatible for use with Garmin Connect™. Garmin Connect™ is an online community where you would be able to upload your training data so that you can share and compare them with runners from all over the world. These external features definitely join the running watch in helping you in significantly improving your run times.

With all of these, the Garmin Forerunner® 210 should be one of the running watches on your mind if you are looking for an easy to use yet fully featured running watch.

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Related posts:

1. Garmin Forerunner 205/305/405 – Top Running Watch 2009
2. Garmin Forerunner 205 Review
3. Garmin Forerunner 305 Review

So what makes the best running watch? These are the top factors to consider for choosing the best one:

1. Accuracy of Data
2. Durable yet Comfortable construction
3. Features and Capabilities
4. Good Value for Money

With these factors, here are what I believe to be the top running watches for 2010:

Timex Men’s Ironman 100-Lap FLIX System Watch

Timex Men's T5E231 Ironman 100-Lap Watch

Overall Rating:

Retail Price: $69.95

Amazon Price: $44.50

Out of the three running watches that are in consideration for the best running watch for 2010, the Timex Men’s Ironman 100-Lap FLIX System Watch is the one with the least features as it does not really have any data connectivity or GPS powered functionality.

It is a no frills running watch that would enable the runner to accurately check the basic things necessary for tracking their runs. It gives you easy access to checking you split and lap times, using a 100 hour chronograph, and storing up to 100 lap memory recall. It also has a training log that stores your workouts by date as well as best lap, or total running times.

Perhaps the best thing about the Timex Men’s Ironman 100-Lap FLIX System Watch is that you would be able to get all of these features without having to spend so much. You can get all of these functionalities, as well as the quality and durability that Timex is known for with just over 45 US$.

Another factor that puts this into consideration is that this is one of the best selling running watches in the market right now. Perhaps this is because of the strong combination of features that can be had at a very low price.

Garmin Forerunner 405

Overall Rating:

Retail Price: Varies based on product options

Amazon Price: View Sale Price

The Garmin Forerunner 405 is one of the newer running watches that is in the running for the best running watch for 2010.

It is a GPS enabled running watch that uses its innovative technology to track training data such as distance, and pace on top of the usual running watch features of chronographs with splits and lap times. It also computes calories burned and heart rate.

The great thing about the Garmin Forerunner 405 is that it can wirelessly and seamlessly connect to your computer for easier analysis of the accurate data that you have tracked.

As an added incentive for the Forerunner 405, Garmin has created it to be much more sleeker than traditional GPS enabled running watches. This means that form and functionality are able to be balanced instead of the bulky or unwieldy GPS running watches that were available before.

Unfortunately, all of these features would literally come at a price, as you could expect to be set back by around 350-400 US$ if you purchase this feature-filled running watch.

Garmin Forerunner 305

Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor

Overall Rating:

Retail Price: $299.99

Amazon Price: $239.00

Despite being older than the other models of running watches in this list, the Garmin Forerunner 305 is still making a strong case as one of the best running watches for 2010.

This is because this gps-enabled rung watch is still loaded with enough features that enable it to stand with the newer models that came out after it. Through its GPS capabilities you would also be able to accurately track training data such as your distance and pace, and your calories burned.  It would also be packed in with the usual chronograph features of other running watches.

While it may not be as advanced as its newer counterpart, the Forerunner 405, it sure beats it when it comes to price, as you would roughly spend just 200 US $ for a complete package of the Garmin Forerunner 305.

My Pick as the BEST Running Watch for 2010:

All of these running watches are great, that’s why all of them are currently selling quite well in the market. However, my overall pick for the best running watch for 2010 would be:

Garmin Forerunner 305

I chose this stroller primarily because of the value for money aspect of it. For 200 US$ you can get a feature filled running watch that is nearly as capable as it’s more expensive and newer counterparts.

Yes, it may not have the built in heart rate monitors, or cadence sensors that the other watches have but you would be able to offset it by purchasing accessories with the total cost still ending up much cheaper than buying a new running watch.

With that said, if ever the sleeker Forerunner 405, would become cheaper and reach a price point that is near the Garmin Forerunner 305, then I may have to change my pick in the future!

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Related posts:

1. Personalizing Your GPS Running Watch
2. Running Watch Favorites
3. Garmin Forerunner 205/305/405 – Top Running Watch 2009

Garmin Forerunner 405 Wireless GPS-Enabled Sport Watch with USB ANT Stick and Heart Rate Monitor (Black)

Overall Rating:

Retail Price: $282.61

Amazon Price: $166.98

The Garmin Forerunner 405, while admittedly a high end product, is a feature rich and sleek looking training gadget that can surely catch anyone’s fancy.

But questions arise as to how does the design help your training and if you can actually use these features.

Out of the box, the most noticeable Garmin Forerunner 405 features are the:

• Sport watch
• Auto Lap®
• Time/distance alerts

At its core, the Garmin Forerunner 405 is a sports watch. It can give you the features that you need when running from block to block or at your local park. The Garmin Forerunner 405 would provide you with the necessary tools to track the usual data.

The auto lap feature automatically starts a new lap as your run, and the time/distance alert provides you with an alarm whenever you reach your goals. Used in conjunction with each other, these features of the Garmin Forerunner 405 gives you your time, lap splits, lap times, distance and overall pace that would help in determining whether you had a good training or not.

Of course if you are happy with those features then you can simply select lower end models. The Garmin Forerunner 405 shines when you delve into its more advanced functions.

More advanced features of the Garmin Forerunner 405 include:

• Faster satellite uplink time
• Intuitive Controls
• A host of compatible accessories
• Easy connectivity between devices and computers

The quick satellite uplink of the Garmin Forerunner 405 truly stands out. Now you don’t have to wait long hours when using satellite guidance for its data. With it faster tracking of waypoints, routes, or even measuring just how you are doing at a specific area or place in your usual training route becomes much easier. The improved GPS system can truly help you analyze your data more precisely.

Another thing that’s good with the Garmin Forerunner 405 is its host of wide ranging compatible accessories. There is the Foot Pod for tracking speed distance and cadence when indoors, or even bike speed or cadence sensors if you fancy yourself as an indoor cyclist.

The Garmin Forerunner 405 is also proud of having:

• Intuitive interface to set watch while training
• Compact and lightweight construction
• Easy connectivity with computers

What makes the Forerunner 405 more amazing is that it is quite easy to use. Aside from its lightweight and compact design, Garmin has also made the Forerunner 405 much more intuitive.

They have included 2 buttons on the side of the Forerunner 405 that users can easily press to adjust the necessary settings. Users would not have to fiddle around much when trying to customize their training.

After all the training that you do, the Garmin Forerunner 405 also shines in synchronizing data to your computer. As long as it recognizes a connected “USB ANT stick “  to a PC it would automatically transmit your workout data to the PC.

This makes it much easier to store, share, and analyze your training data to find out your areas of improvement.

Conclusion:

Given all the functionality of the Garmin Forerunner 405, you would be able to see how it is a great fit for runners who truly take their training seriously and are not too shy about spending for the additional benefits.

While a bit higher in price compared to the other Garmin models, the added features, improved capability, and more lightweight and compact build that can truly advance your training makes spending that additional money worth it.

Buy/More Info

Related posts:

1. Garmin Forerunner 405 Black GPS Enabled Sports Watch HRM Factory Refurbished
2. Garmin Forerunner 205/305/405 – Top Running Watch 2009
3. Garmin Forerunner 205 Review

Garmin once again uses technology to help you improve your training with the Garmin Forerunner 405 Black GPS Enabled Sports Watch Heart Rate Monitor.

Nowadays, training through activity alone is not enough. People seem to need to go through data gathering and analysis to ensure that they are performing well. The Garmin Forerunner 405 helps by tracking your training and monitors your time, distance, pace, calories and heart rate (when paired with heart rate monitor).

All of these enable the Garmin Forerunner 405 to review and analyze the data to see how you’ve improved. It can even provide you with new courses or a virtual partner to race with just for you to better gauge your improvement.

All of these features are available for you through the Forerunner 405’s very intuitive interface. It features a touch bezel that lets you quickly scroll and select features on the device.

Related posts:

1. Garmin 010 00679 05 Forerunner 50 Sports Watch with Heart Rate Monitor and USB ANT Stick
2. Garmin Forerunner 310XT GPS Enabled Sports Watch
3. Garmin Forerunner 405 Wireless GPS Enabled Sports Watch

113541 Features: Monitor your time, distance, pace, and calories with a single sport watch-personal trainer as it stores all of the data so that you can review your improvement later Switch between monitoring your speed to viewing your GPS monitor by tapping the touch bezel Don’t worry, you’ll always get great reception for your GPS thanks to the unique design provides the antenna a larger view of the sky If you have to pause, or begin a new lap, you don’t have to spend time resetting everything to the Auto Pause and Auto Lap features take care of that for you Record up to 1000 laps worth of lap history and customize your workouts, with multi-sport, advanced, and simple workout schemes to track your energy output Your best workout buddy, it’ll give you warnings when you deviate from a set pace, and alert you when you’ve reached time or distance goals Compatible with power meters so that you can view data from 3rd party ANT+Sport-enabled power meters Share your data with other Forerunner 405 users easily with the wireless transfer capabilities or automatically download it to your computer with the USB ANT Stick Specifications: Weight to dimensions: 211 ounces to 188 x 278 x 0646 inches Barometric altimeter: no Display size diameter: 106 inches Battery to battery life: rechargeable lithium-ion to 2 weeks (power save mode); 8 hours (training mode) Waypoints to routes: 100 to 0

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars Superior Running Watch
After recently buying this product and taking it for a few runs, on and off-road, I’ve had none of the difficulties others have. The bezel is adequate, and as there is really no need to be pushing buttons or scrolling through menus while on a run it is completely functional. The software has worked flawlessly for me and has provided me with a plethora of information, making my written training log nearly obsolete. I can’t ever imagine using all of the functions provided by the 405. The GPS usually connects quickly, and I’ve never lost a signal. The shape of the watch does make it a better fit for those with larger wrists, but you can always just wear it higher up on your arm. You’re going for a run, how comfortable do you plan on being? Though this is my first Garmin watch, I am willing to bet most issues others have had are due to user error, as I am not the most tech-savvy person.

My only qualm with this product would be the accuracy of the GPS measurements. I’ve seen the accuracy on my watch jump to +/- 113 ft., and when on a 10-15 mile run, that can really add up.

Furthermore, because of the setup, it isn’t very practical for interval training, but let’s be honest, it’s easier to just stick with a stopwatch.

Other than this, it’s totally worth it for someone who, like me, does a lot of running and a lot of trail running (as the mileage on trails can get dicey). I personally plan to take this watch with me on most of my runs.

5 Stars Excellent product

I am very pleased with not only the fast delivery of the watch but also with its performance.The gps enabled feature has really changed my runnings entire dynamic. While it did get some getting used to with regards to use and online support overall I am still, after a few weeks of use, very happy with the watch. Now a few words of advice: always lock the bezel when going on a run to prohibit sweat or rain from messing with the sensitivity of the bezel and be use software updates with caution and be sure to read how to redtart the watch if the update fails and leaves the watch unactive.

5 Stars Can’t live without it for training!
Currently training for a marathon. I guess people have trained before without the use of a GPS watch but why not use the technology if we have it. Watch is great for training. I mainly use the watch for miles/time/and pace. Many other features of this watch that I have yet to use but love how I can log on after a run and see the terrain/calories estimated and map of course. Great watch. I agree with the others to lock the bezel prior to running because the sweat will sometimes cause it to move in the menu. Not a big deal.

2 Stars Decent GPS and definite improvement but plenty of issues
I bought this recently after owning the 201 previously. The design on the 405 CX is much better than the rectangular old design but that seems mainly attributable to the decreasing size of technology. I also owned a polar with a footpod recently for comparison and viewed this an upgrade. Overall, my experience has been only OK and echoes a number of comments on here that i didn’t see or hear from the running store when i purchased the 405. Had it been a $200 purchase i’d view it as an expensive and heavy watch that sometimes has a useful GPS function but it was ~$400.

Positives:

A little large but not as large as previous devices

Software was relatively straightforward to get installed (but doesn’t work reliably – see below)

Finds location faster than prior version but not nearly as fast as others indicate here (i live in NYC so tall buildings can present a problem but it does ok in trails of NJ or other tree covered areas) – i have never had it lock in the ’5 seconds’ others mention. The best case is 20 seconds and up to a minute or two, which is obviously frustrating since you can’t start the timer until it locks

Negatives:

Biggest complaint is that the software worked exactly three times uploading data and has not worked again (despite using multiple computers, turning off surrounding wireless devices, etc)

I emailed customer support, got two responses then no responses after that when i clearly outlined the problem had not been solved

the heartrate monitor is subpar and feels like polar technology from five years ago. the hard plastic definitely will rub you raw if you’re not careful.

the bezel is twitchy and i have had problems on longer runs when there is plenty of sweat or rain and i can’t get the bezel to recognize the touch.

the menus are hardly intuitive and not designed from a runner’s perspective. i wonder who tests this stuff and if they can run around the garmin headquarters but i digress.

the altitude was laughably wrong but since i’ve only been able to see the elevation changes a couple of times (see software problem above) i can’t tell if that was run-specific or a general problem.

As you can tell i’m generally disappointed because i thought i was getting an upgrade but i’ve gotten a whole new set of issues. unfortunately, i’d still recommend this over the footpod option (notwithstanding the superior heartrate monitor) but if you can hold out you may want to consider waiting for the next version.

4 Stars First time Garmin watch owner and it works great
Being this was my first time I would own a Garmin sport watch, I wasn’t sure to either get the 305 or 405 based on some negative reviews of the 405. But I figured there were just enough good reviews, and it being a newer version I decided to take a shot and go with the 404 and I can tell you..so far…it works great! I’m using it to train for a marathon and I’ve been running with it for the past two weeks. I’m just blown away by all the information it is able to record and then transferring it wirelessly to my laptop and logging into my Garmin Connect account to get the detailed maps of the routes I took and information breakdown of all my runs is awesome. I haven’t had trouble locating satelites (takes less than a minute) and I can’t say I’ve had trouble with the bezel acting crazy during my runs. Maybe I don’t sweat so much that it gets wet maybe. Not sure. But I’ve even changed settings during the runs with no issues. But just as the manual tells you, you can lock the bezel after you have your desired settings and display. After that you can touch the bezel all you want and it won’t move or change screens. Really not a big deal from my experience. The watch fits fine around my wrists with no irritation or anything. Feels like a normal watch. I think the only thing that I found doesn’t record correctly is the elevation. I guess it should work as intended but I don’t rely on the elevation data to much. Don’t know what else to say about the watch. It’s been working great for me. I thought the instructions were pretty clear (such as syncing the watch and laptop) and easy. I’d recommend getting the watch.

Buy/More Info

Related posts:

1. Garmin Forerunner 405CX GPS Sport Watch with Heart Rate Monitor Blue
2. Garmin Forerunner 310XT GPS Enabled Sports Watch
3. Garmin Forerunner 405 Black GPS Enabled Sports Watch HRM Factory Refurbished

Garmin Forerunner 310XT Waterproof Running GPS With USB ANT Stick and Heart Rate Monitor

Overall Rating:

Retail Price: $399.99

Amazon Price: $349.99

User Ratings and Reviews

1 Star SWINNIMG GPS signals don’t penetrate WATER
OK, so I don’t own one of these units. I am researching and thinking of buying something. It occurred to me, with all the complaints about swimming accuracy, that I should mention something:

Electromagnetic signals (ie. GPS signals) DO NOT EASILY PENETRATE WATER. Just ask the Navy. Any water other than distilled water has some conductivity, especially salt water. It acts as a Farady shield – the GPS signal hits a conductor (water) and creates a current in the conductor. The resistance of the conductor will dissipate the energy of the signal. BASIC ELECTROMAGNETISM. This is how your microwave keeps the EM radiation inside from getting out and cooking you – by using a conductor shield to trap it.

I am surprised Garmin claims they have a GPS unit that will work under water. Call the Navy! They would love a way to communicate with submarines without having to use sonar, which gets them in a lot of trouble by disrupting marine life. The reason they use sonar is that ELECTROMAGNETIC SIGNALS DON’T TRAVEL WELL UNDER WATER!

The GPS accuracy while swimming will be based on how far you plunge the watch under water, the type of water, etc. The device might work better if you strap it to your head! Just my two cents.

5 Stars 310XT is most everything Garmin says it is
I felt compelled to write a review, because I am disturbed with what some other reviewers are publishing. This is the best watch of it’s kind I have owned, and as long as a purchaser understands what it does, and it’s limitations, I think they will be more than satisfied. It may be that this watch will not meet their needs, but it should not be a cause to deliver a poor rating.

I have owned the Forerunner 305, the 201, the Timex GPS and a Polar, so I have years of experience. Since I do triathlons, I was most looking forward to the waterproof controls, and 20 hour battery. The charger is a bit funky design, but for me it seems to work just fine. My battery has been lasting at least 16 hours–I haven’t tested it further before recharging. One issue that I had with the 305 also, though: the watch should be TURNED OFF while you are charging. If not, as soon as you disconnect the charger, since the watch is ON, it will start “discharging” (as it does normally while it is on. I have been caught several times with a depleted battery on my 305 because of this quirk–I think the watches should be programmed to automatically turn themselves off when the charger is connected).

I have used the new watch swimming, biking and running and hiking, and I am pleased with the performance for each sport. One reviewer pointed out that there should be a “swim” mode–I agree, but I think Garmin may have avoided that mode because the GPS does not work well in the water. Several reviewers complained about that, however Garmin does write on their website AND in their manual that the GPS does not work well in the water (I don’t know that I would blame that on Garmin–probably the technology is just not there yet–besides, GPS signals do not penetrate water.) In fact, I did NOT get an accurate GPS distance reading for open water swimming, but it did map my COURSE correctly, albeit with a lot of zig-zags (I know I can’t swim in a straight line, but I am not THAT bad).

The biking portion works great. The Garmin matches pretty closely with the distance measured on my bike computer (I don’t have the Garmin bike sensor–I want that and the quick-release mount for my next birthday). Of course it also tracks speed, altitude, heart rate, etc. (I used the heart monitor strap from my 305).

Running works well also, basically same as biking although I do set up the display screens differently.

Other, useful new features I have noticed:

1. The watch locks onto satellites more quickly than my 305

2. The watch vibrates, although I wonder how this affects battery life. For instance it vibrates every lap (if I set it) so I know I have completed an autolap without having to look at the watch.

3. The software is more refined (lots of small fixes. For instance the settings function lets me know what sport mode I am in–although I think this could still be made easier and less confusing. And the time zone can be put on automatic–I always wondered why they couldn’t do this before–the watch knows where it is for gosh sakes. And there are extra custom screens if you want them–statistic hounds take note.)

4. Wireless data upload. Very nice! Their new “Garmin Connect” site is also pretty useful, and the data can be uploaded directly to the Internet.

5. The 310XT is not much smaller or lighter than the 305 (according to the specs), but it FEELS MUCH smaller and lighter.

6. There is a progress bar for the battery charging. I would like to be able to see how much time is LEFT in my battery–I wish Garmin would add this.

In summary, I think this is far and away the best GPS watch Garmin has made, and is especially appropriate for triathletes (despite the swimming issue). You DO need to become accustomed to using the watch. Although I do not think it is hard to use, you SHOULD read the manual. At least you do not have to keep RE-reading the manual like I do for some other gadgets. I do think this watch is way overpriced, but I am a gadget freak, and I’m sure the price will come down over time, like it did for the 305 (which is a great deal, now, btw, if you don’t need a 20 hour battery-life and a waterproof stopwatch

5 Stars garmin 310XT
ran a marathon with my new garmin and every thing was perfect except the distance calculation. the marathon splits ended up being .2 mile off at the end. so the mile alert was always a little early at each mile, therefore my av. pace was also a little off. my old 305 did the same thing, so i am disappointed that the 310XT wasn’t better. this watch is very user friendly.

5 Stars runner
It’s the first gps so i’m not able to do comparison but this product in my opinion is excellent.

5 Stars Great Watch
I had been using the 201 for the last 4 years and just upgraded. It is much smaller and is much more accurate. I have also taken it hiking in Colorado and it never lost the signal even under the trees.

Buy/More Info

Related posts:

1. Garmin Forerunner 405CX GPS Sport Watch with Heart Rate Monitor Blue
2. Garmin Forerunner 405 Black GPS Enabled Sports Watch HRM Factory Refurbished
3. Garmin Forerunner 405 Wireless GPS Enabled Sports Watch

Forget about trying to force yourself to get into an unsuitable fitness program! The Polar RS400sd Heart Rate Monitor Watch take cares of that by finding that perfect training level for your body.

The RS400sd features its Polar OwnOptimizer capability. The Polar OwnOptimizer allows this heart rate monitor watch to m determine whether you are under training or over training based on your heart rate, pace, and calories burned and. It measures and analyzes your training results and provides you with visual and aural clues for you to know how effective the runner’s training program is.

The Polar RS400sd Heart Rate Monitor Watch also comes with a free IRDA USB 2.0 interface and Polar Protrainer 5 training planning and analyzing software. This makes it easier for any runner to upload his data to the computer, and analyze the results of his workout.

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars Very Repeatable Results
The RS400 foot pod gives very repeatable results. Initially, with no calibration, the foot pod was 7% accurate for me. It didn’t matter if the distance was 3 miles or 9 miles it maintained a 7% error. I did a manual correction using data from a 7 mile run and the unit is now about 1-2% accurate. I think I can improve it better if I calibrate it using data taken from a 1600m track run. I personally like doing the manual correction because it allows me go back to a previous factor if a new one does not perform better.

My wife happens to have the Garmin Forerunner 405 while I went with the Polar RS400sd so we have been able to compare both systems. They both can measure and record your workouts and come with s/w for your computer. Both s/w packages have a workout diary and allow you to define custom workouts and upload them to your watch. This feature is great for interval training. No more having to remember how many laps you’ve completed or how much your pace should change. I think the Garmin s/w might have a slight edge compared to Polar’s. Overall both systems work very well, each with their +/-. Here are some notable features for each.

Polar RS400 Pros:

-No need to look for GPS satellite signals

-Very Repeatable results

-Calories burned calculation based on hear rate.

-Good battery life

-Display Screens very customizable

-Capable of manual calibration

-comfortable wrist unit

Polar RS400 Cons:

-Do need to calibrate foot pod for best accuracy

-Downloading workout data is temperamental with IR connection

-Auto laping feature based on start of workout not on the start of the last lap. It would be cool to be able to record a lap manually and then continue auto laping based on that point.

-foot pod is a little bulky (but surprisingly unnoticeable while running)

-Have to manually erase workout data after download. Would be nice if this was done automatically.

Garmin 405 Pros:

-GPS receiver in wrist unit

-No need to calibrate

-Actual route can be viewed on a map

-Buttonless screen navigation

-Data download connection to computer is very robust.

Garmin 405 Cons:

-Have to set you watch out for a few minutes to look for GPS satellites

-Watch unit needs to be recharged regularly (GPS is power hungry)

-Watch is a little bulky

-Buttonless screen feature can be temperamental during a workout

3 Stars RS 400 SD
I find this product to be an excellent tool for keeping track of my workouts. The one complaint I have is that there seems to be a glitch with transfering information to my desktop; I find that I often have to close the Polar program and reopen it in order to get the transfer to work. Other than that it’s easy to use and very sturdy. The footpod has been accurate and, although it can be difficult to attach to my shoe, it has held up very well to trail runs, stream crossings and muddy days.

3 Stars Works alright
I’ve tried several Polar heart monitors before, but this is the first one I’ve tried with a soft strap. The strap is more comfortable and seems to be easier to get good contact than the hard straps. Having said that, I still have problems with getting good contact and often need to dump more water on the strap during the first ten minutes of my run. Be sure to really soak the strap before starting… a little dab of water is not enough.

The IrDA device is pretty touchy… borderline obnoxious. It seems more like a beta product than a reliable production product. The watch has to be pressed against the transceiver, help really steady, and typically I have to make two or three attempts before it works. I would not have been very happy to purchase the IrDA device separately, especially considering the gouging price that Polar sells it for, and experience these problems. FWIW: the IrDA port on my Thinkpad interfaces with the watch so it may be possible to get a less expensive IrDA device if you need another. Just seems like some sort of solid protected USB like plug would be far superior.

I don’t use the running pod.

I really like the zone alarms which give you an audible indication if you are dogging it or pushing too hard.

If you don’t really need logging capabilities, you may want to consider a less expensive monitor.

4 Stars RS 400 SD
I was using the Nike Ipod pedometer for a few weeks to track my distance and time. The Nike Ipod after a few weeks was just not accurate enough for my needs. I ended up buying the 400 SD with all its feautres. My first run was for 1 mile and the pedometer was accurate at 1.05 miles. The heart rate showed a steady increase the first minute of my run and then it leveled off as I would expect. After my run I was able to download the information into my laptop with no problems. My laptop has a built in Ir port so it was no problem with the transfer. The software is fairly easy to use and has several reports to show you different graphical curves of your heart rate.

Overall, I really like the product and for my first run it was fairly simple. My only issue with this item is the price. Sure is a lot of money but then it does have a lot of features. You really need to read the directions for this item. There are so many sub pages and functions that it is not intuitive as to how to navigate thru all the different pages on the watch.

Buy/More Info

Related posts:

1. Polar RS300X SD Heart Rate Monitor Watch with S1 Foot Pod Black
2. Polar RS200 Running Heart Rate Monitor
3. Heart Rate Polar RS400 Monitor

The Garmin Forerunner 405CX GPS Sport Watch with Heart Rate Monitor helps you improve your training by using the most modern technological innovations.

The Forerunner 405CX is considered as the evolution of GPS-enabled training. It allows you to easily record your training data such as distance, pace, calories burned and heart rate. It could even use this data to help you by creating a Forerunner Virtual Partner that will help in challenging you to improve your running times.

Of course this training data would not be useful if you would not be able to analyze them. That’s why aside from the internal memory where the Forerunner 405CX stores your training data, you can use the included USB ANT stick that uses the innovative ANT+ wireless technology automatically to transfers information to your computer.

This allows you to use running software to study your training patterns or even share your workouts and results online.

If these features do not seem to suit all your needs, just remember that there a variety of optional wireless accessories, such as foot pod or bike sensors to make the Garmin Forerunner 405CX GPS Sport Watch with Heart Rate Monitor match any kind of training that you do.

What’s in the Box
Forerunner 405CX, USB ANT stick, Heart rate monitor, Two additional wrist straps, AC charger, Charging clip, Owner’s manual on disk, Quick reference guide

Buy/More Info

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Awesome
First and foremost, do not expect to be able to just put it on and it will work properly. Like anything that costs a bit more, you have to read the instructions. So if you cannot follow directions then you will have a heck of a time trying to use it. I took it on a test run just so I could get a feel for it.

The only problem I had with it was that it wasn’t connecting to the satelites in order for the GPS to work. I had to go back in and re-read the instructions.

*Note- If you want to use the GPS, make sure the power save mode is off because that mode interferes with the satelites.*

Once I figured out the satelites, it took several minutes for the watch to locate them, which kind of sucks if its cold outside. You have to stand still until it picks up on the satelites.

Also, make sure the GPS is turned off while you are inside because it will try to connect to the satelites and use up your battery life.

There are so many neat features on this watch but what I thought was so cool was auto-pause setting. This feature will pause your watch if you get below a certain speed. This is good for when you are at stoplights.

I also liked how the watch is set up to transmit your watch data wirelessly. Once transmitted, you can go on garmin connect and view your results.

This is a complicated device, but once you have it all set up and figured out, it’s very easy to use. I really recommend this watch to anyone who wants something that will help them with their training and to track their progress.

4 Stars Good workout partner
I am very happy with this GPS but it does have some quirks.

I have an Edge 305 on my bicycle so maybe the learning curve was easier for me, but I found the 405CX pretty easy to use. It does take some getting used to but by the 3rd use I had no issues with it. I had my screens set up and was using the simple workouts with ease.

The screen is a bit small, but once you get used to the set up it becomes easier to read on the run. If you don’t use auto scroll you can quickly look at your watch and get the info you want. At the start of the run I pick the screen that is best for what I am doing and just leave it there mostly unless I get bored and start to cycle through my screens.

The touch bezel works ok. Using it to set up a workout is easy once you get used to it. During a run a touch scrolls the screen and a touch and drag increases or decreases the speed of the virtual partner. Sometimes it takes a second or two to register and sometimes a slight touch registers. It’s usually not an issue, but sometimes my jacket will make it scroll when I don’t want it to. When I do want to scroll it during a run I sometimes have to press a second time to get it to scroll. It’s not really an issue for me and you learn the ins and outs of it.

GPS reception has been very good for me, even under clothing. It takes about 10-20 seconds to find the satellites each time I run, so I stretch while it’s searching. I have noticed that even after it has found the satellites it still needs time to stabilize. For instance on one track run I started running right after it found the satellites in a place with a lot of trees. After the run I looked at my route and the first part of the lap under the tress it showed me about 50′ off the track, but on each subsequent lap it showed me right on the track even while under the trees. It just needed time to stabilize. Now I turn on the watch and give it a few minutes while I stretch/warm up, then when I am ready to run it’s right on the money.

Like the 305 Edge the elevation feature is practically worthless. The barometric pressure just fluctuates too much so the watch is always all over the place. Again it does seem to stabilize the longer it is on, but it’s never exact enough to rely on. If you look at the elevation chart in the software after a run you can see where the hills are, but if you are doing laps a hill’s elevation can change by as my as 75′ each time you come across it each time. I don’t use the watch itself to tell me the elevation when running since it is so off.

Looking at the pace chart in the software after a run is interesting. Like elevation, it’s all over the place, spikes everywhere. Even though it looks a mess it is useable, where you had to stop for traffic or where your interval sprints will be clear in the chart. While running the pace on the watch does seem very accurate. You can quickly see how fast you are going and if you accelerate it shows instantly on the watch. It is probably one of the most useful display items.

The heart rate monitor has been perfect, no issues at all. I do use Buh-Bump, Heart Rate Monitor Electrode Cream with it which may help.

I have to charge the battery once a week (I run 3 days a week). A 30-40 minute run uses about 10% of the battery. Sitting in powersave mode for a day or two is a greater drain on it.

I do love this GPS besides the quirks. It’s great to quickly and easily set up an interval workout and not have to be on a track or constantly looking at my watch (it makes a very loud beep at the start of each interval which I can hear even on a windy day). It’s a great training aid that makes a run more interesting and fun.

The software does leave a lot to be desired (Windows Vista 64). The watch links fine, I have never had any issues there, plug in the ANT antenna and it does everything itself. But the Garmin Connect website while nice doesn’t break down everything enough and can be a bit slow. The Garmin Training Center software displays more information but is clunky and not very polished.

I highly recommend this GPS watch. It has helped me tremendously on my workouts and makes my runs more fun. While it could be better, and cheaper, I don’t regret buying it. I do wish Garmin would improve the software though. For this price they really could do better. I wouldn’t let that stop me and there is other software you can buy that works with the watch.

4 Stars Small Package, Big Features
Buy this monitor now. Easy to use and small enough so you dont feel like you have a laptop on your wrist. The bezel touch menu navigation can be sensitive to bumps but the lock feature solves most of your problems. Great product.

5 Stars This is the best of the best Gadgets
The Garmin 405cx is amazing. It locks Satellites and keeps tracking me almost everywhere. I run through town, and then through some woods, and my other device, would pick up here, and there, and never hardly track in the woods. I can even see my movements as I get ready, in the house. The Upload is quite easy, and the web app is really cool.

5 Stars Excellent product
I have used this watch for 2 weeks now, and I am almost 100 percent satisfied with it.

First of all, it is very easy to use. After 15 minutes I knew how to access most of its features.

The touch bezel works great. Even when it was raining I was able to use it with no trouble at all.

The battery life is not great, but it’s ok. It takes about 3 one-hour workouts (5 days) to wear out the battery.

The GPS is not 100 percent accurate, but it is good too. Sometimes the map shows my route as if I had been taking shortcuts through the bushes. I would rate its accuracy as been 8/10. It’s my first GPS device though, I don’t know if they are all like that.

The heart rate monitor is excellent, much better then my Polar. It’s more accurate (doesn’t show absurd values like the Polar does sometimes) and it allows you to change the battery instead of having to buy a new one when the battery dies.

Another great thing about this watch is that it allows you to select the data fields that you want to view during your workout. So, you can configure up to 3 sets of data with 3 fields on each one to view during the exercise. You can either change the data sets by touching the bezel or configure the watch to rotate through them.

The data transmission to the computer is very nice, too. You only have to stick the usb receiving device into your computer and it detects the watch and retrieves the data.

So, after all that, I can say that it was a great purchase, and I recommend it for anyone who likes running and gadgets.

Buy/More Info

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