Polar RS800cx Pro Team Edition Limited Edition with Bike Speed and Cadence and USB IrDA adapter Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought the Polar RS800CX for the purposes of training myself on my road bike as an average cyclist. I will divide my review in two parts: 1. Documentation and setting up; and 2. The Polar computer.
Polar can definitely do better in terms of documentation for the Polar computer, the Speed Sensor and the Cadence Sensor. The illustrations were tiny and not clear in the manual. In the process of setting up the Speed Sensor, I had to key in the size of the wheel. Instead of using standard nomenclature for wheel size, one is expected to key in the wheel size configuration in mm. There was no literature that I could find in the manual on keying in the right size. I had to call the local Polar agent to key in the right number.
Then, I tried attaching the Polar heart rate sensor on the chest strap which has two clip buttons to secure the heart rate sensor. After buttoning the heart rate sensor, I removed it from the chest strap and one of the buttons (the female piece) broked from the strap. Fortunately, it took me 1 minute to have a "one-for-one" exchange from the Polar agent with no questions asked, not withstanding that I bought the product online.
The Polar Computer - Pro Trainer Software
If you guys are on Mac - good luck! The software is compatible on Windows OS only. Lucky me, I have both OS on my Mac and managed to load the Pro Trainer Software. It is pretty cool in terms of what it records but I wished it has some cookie cutter training programs that I could export to the Polar Computer. I had to design my own training program, if I were to venture beyond the "My Own Zone" program, which just tells you that you are thrashing yourself beyond your heart rate zone.
So, for a premium heart rate model, Polar can do better!

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Suunto M2 Heart Rate Monitor w/ Dual Comfort Belt - Women's Review

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(More customer reviews)I'm posting this coz I couldn't find any reviews when I was trying to choose one myself. I hope this helps!
So I deliberated for ages...the polar? the garmin? the suunto? And then which model?
They all have great features... but I think the Suunto M-series are the better looking watches and yes, I am that shallow.
It's my first HRM and I found it very easy to use...
Pros:
- large face, easy to read
- nice looking
- pause function, apparently the session ends if you don't restart after pausing for one hour
- can enter your year of birth and weight (I guess it works out your calories based on this information)
- 4 weeks of cumulative information
- can view details of your last previous workout
- tells you if you are in zone 1, 2 or 3 and beeps when you move between them. Also shows you when you are below zone 1 and above zone 3
- gives you stats on calories burned, time and time spent in each zone
- shows you calories on the fly (apparently some HRMs only show you after the workout)
- strap and watch are very comfortable
- reasonably priced
- very motivating!
Cons:
- No back light
- can't program "zones"
- doesn't take your height into consideration when estimating calories
- does not connect with the other suunto products, ie footpod, bikecomputer and usb data collector (to plug into your computer). Even if it did, they are very expensive.
- no fitness test or workout program
- only gives you details of one previous workout. Thought it does provide you with a summary of workouts in total. (Not sure how this works yet) I personally would love to scroll through each individual workout. Perhaps no HRMs provide that function. I don't know.
- doesn't show all information at once, you have to scroll through. It shows you two pieces of information on each screen though, ie heart rate plus calories burned (I can't remember the other couplings coz I mostly kept it on that setting). Scrolling through doesn't bother me at all. I think that's what you get for having the heart rate so large on the screen, which I really like.
Honestly, as much as I like it I am wondering whether to exchange it for the M4 which is only $30 more and it will give me a backlight and some of the other features...
My only issue is that I don't think you get the beeps and zone information with the M4. Whether I decide to upgrade or not, I'll be happy with this one... just wondering whether I'll be happier with the other one.
Oh, and if you're trying to decide between Suunto HRMs, the manuals are available on their website so you can read through them to find out what features they have or don't have - it might help you make a decision.
Oct 26 Update:
So, I've been using this watch for over a month now and I've concluded the following:
1. It REALLY bugs me that it doesn't have a back light. In this day and age you'd think it would be standard. SUUNTO, Listen up!
2. It is VERY attractive. I like the way it looks so much that I wear it everyday. (This is doubly why the lack of light bothers me because it doesn't function like a real watch). I receive many compliments about it.
3. Soooo many times I have accidentally deleted the workout I'm currently on after hitting the pause button. The Question it asks you is: "Stop?" And you have to select "yes" or "no". Not so hard, but if you get stopped by someone asking you the time, you might accidentally press "yes" thinking, yes I want to pause. Doh! I wish it had no question and just gave you the "Continue" or "Stop" options. That could just be me... but I've stuffed that up at least 3 times and deleted my workout info unintenionally. Also, it's meant to pause for up to an hour. I hit pause for about half and hour, restarted it then hit pause again thinking the hour would start again but it stopped after probably around half an hour without my asking it to and with no warning. That was frustrating. Because it doesn't save details of more than your last workout, if you're on the go, like I was you might again accidentally delete your hard work with no recompense. (If it saved all your previous workouts, that wouldn't be a problem).
I think this watch could be really fantastic if it just had a couple of those additional features. I recommend it to those of you who know how to press buttons properly. I notice it's $50 cheaper since I purchased it.


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Suunto t6d GPS Pack t6d Wristop Computer (Black Smoke) Review

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(More customer reviews)Looks cool but I tried two different purchases and had to return both as they didn't work even with battery replacement.
Customer service was nice but just told me to return after the battery attempts failed.

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Suunto Regatta Marine Watch Review

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(More customer reviews)I've had this watch about 2 months now and I really enjoy it. My only complaint is it's a little big, but I can live with it. I had to use the compass function a few days ago, and it's very easy to use and understand.
I did have to contact their customer support concerning a read-out I couldn't see in the "Sail" mode. Well according to their customer service the Regatta doesn't have a sail mode! I never did convice the rep that I was emailing back and forth with that the Regatta did have a sail mode. Fortunately, I figured the problem out myself. That concerns me some, what happens if I have a major problem?
But overall, I would buy this watch again. If you shop around, you can find it cheaper than Amazon.

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Suunto t3d Heart Rate Monitor and Fitness Training Watch(Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I've owned several suunto watches for different purposes. I've never been disappointed at all. Most of the complaints are about the scratching of the face. I buy face protectors and I never have an issue. I'm currently using this watch with the foot, bike and pc pod and I love it. It tracks all my running, biking and weight training states. Get a suunto and you will love it.

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The Suunto t3d gives you the edge to efficiently take your workout to the next level. The included Suunto Dual Comfort Belt accurately monitors your real-time heart rate, calorie consumption, and Training Effect: a quick and accurate measurement of how hard your body is working at any given moment, so you can easily find that sweet spot for getting the most out of each workout. Optional Suunto PODs take your Suunto t3d one step further by calculating your speed and distance in all your sports, in addition to your cycling cadence. View your personal stats in the training logbook to help you follow your progress and reach your targets.

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Suunto X10M Wrist-Top GPS Computer Watch with Altimeter, Barometer, Compass, and GPS Review

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(More customer reviews)This watch was a great purchase for the first few weeks that I had it; as far as functionality it has performed superbly. A few weeks after I purchased this watch (the X10 Military) I deployed to Iraq and planned on using this watch with my work in the Army here.
The watch has continued to serve fairly well, until I had about 2 months in country. The bezel/upper-case (a flexible rubber ring) is only attached by two rubber flanges that fit into the hard plastic body of the watch. First (at about 60 days) one of the flanges failed, then in another 30 days, the second flange failed. I have been able to superglue the bezel back onto the case (and probably voided the warranty, but I can't wait months to get this back and forth) but I am very dissapointed that a watch that cost me $500.00 USD and is listed as a "military" model, cannot handle exposure to the elements on my wrist for less than 3 months.
I think the concept and design of this watch is great, but I hope that Suunto is able to better incorporate some "painful" product testing before you market something to the military who will depend on it.

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Small and lightweight, the Suunto X10M wrist-top computer watch combines an altimeter, barometer, compass, and GPS navigator, making it a terrific companion for outdoor enthusiasts of all stripes. The X10M--which builds on Suunto's decade of experience in creating cutting-edge outdoor devices--stands above most other wrist-top computers thanks to its improved, faster GPS fixes. Even under heavy foliage, you can use the X10M to plot your treks, navigate to a certain spot, or get back to your car, all while keeping your hands free to hold a hiking stick or water bottle. Once back at home, you can share your treks on Google Earth, or use the Suunto Trek Manager PC software to create new routes and plan new journeys.
The Suunto X10M also includes a built-in altimeter, which displays your current altitude and your vertical ascent and descent rate. Accurate to within 30,000 feet, the altimeter is an extremely valuable tool for mountaineering, backcountry skiing, and wilderness travel. The altimeter contributes to your excursion in several ways. If you're standing on or near an obvious geographic feature, such as a ridge, trail, or creek, the altimeter can alert you to your current elevation and help you find your position on a topographic map. Similarly, if you plan on climbing a slope to a certain elevation and then traversing, the X10M can help you stay on course. And, of course, the X10M captures all your altitude information in its integrated logbook, making it easy to analyze your performance when creating a training routine.
The X10M's barometer, meanwhile, measures and records air pressure to help you predict changing conditions--from sunny skies to hair-bending electrical storms. The barometer helps you decide whether to bring a soft shell or rain shell jacket when the skies look ominous, or even when to high-tail it back to the car. In general, low pressure brings inclement weather, while high pressure brings stability and clear skies. If you've arrived at camp and notice the pressure starting to plunge, it's probably a good idea to secure the tent and crawl in. Likewise, if you're on a climb, it would be prudent to find shelter and retreat. Even at home, the X10M's barometer can look beyond office walls, skyscrapers, and nearby hills to help you plan for upcoming activities.
And no outdoor watch is worth its salt without a digital compass, a great tool for keeping track of your direction while skiing, hiking, or exploring a new city. Simply point the top of the watch toward your intended destination and lock it in. Other features include an Activity Mode that records your speed, distance, and altitude information, along with any memory points you define along the way; a Track Back mode that guides you back the same way you came; a long-lasting battery; up to 50 routes, 25 tracks, and 500 waypoints; water-resistance up to 330 feet; and all the standard watch functions, including a 12/24-hour display, a stopwatch, a calendar clock, and three daily alarms. As with all Suunto wrist-top computers, the X10M carries a two-year warranty.
Specifications:
Altitude alarm: Yes
Vertical speed: Yes
Temperature compensation: Yes
User-removable logbook files: Yes
Resolution: 1 meter
Altitude range: 1,600 to 29,500 feet
Logbook function: Yes
Stopwatch: Yes
Max number of split times in memory: 29
Automatic magnetic declination adjustment: Yes
Guided calibration: Yes
Heading in degrees: Yes
Declination setting: Yes
Cardinal directions: Yes
Bearing tracking: Yes
North-South indicator: North indicator
Distance measurement: Yes, via GPS
GPS resolution: 3 feet
Routes: 50
Speed: Yes
Tracks: 25
Waypoints: 500
Water resistance: 330 feet
Menu-based user interface: Yes
Display: Dot matrix
Backlight type: LED
Software: Suunto Trek Manager
Time: 12/24 hours
GPS time synchronization: Yes
Calendar clock: Yes
Dual time: Yes
Daily alarms: 3
Absolute barometric pressure: Yes
Weather memory: 7 days
Weather alarm: Yes
Trend graph: Yes
Temperature range: -5 to 140 degrees F
Sea level pressure: Yes
Battery power indicator: Yes
Rechargeable battery: Yes
Warranty: 2 years

About Suunto Suunto was founded in 1936 by outdoors man and a keen orienteering enthusiast, Tuomas Vohlonen, who had long been bothered by a problem: the inaccuracy of traditional dry compasses and their lack of steady needle operation. Being an engineer with an inventive turn of mind, he discovered and patented the production method for a much steadier needle, better readings, and a new level of accuracy.
By 1950 the company was exporting compasses to over 50 countries around the world, including Canada and the United States. In 1952, Helsinki was hosting the Olympic Games, and the torches carried to light the Olympic flame were Suunto products. The next step was improving the stability and accuracy of marine compasses. The first marine compass, the Suunto K-12, was launched onto the market in 1953. In 1957, Suunto started manufacturing hypsometers, which measure the height of trees.
In the 1960s, the compass range grew further and Suunto introduced its first diving compass--initiated by the divers themselves. A British sports diver attached a Suunto compass to his wrist and found that the device also worked underwater. Thanks to his feedback and initiatives, the new business category was found. Suunto's exports and business grew steadily and Suunto then focused on combining its strength in precision mechanics with new skills in electronics. Accuracy, reliability, and ruggedness have been Suunto's key values from the very beginning of the company history.
Today, Suunto is a leading designer and manufacturer of sports instruments for training, diving, mountaineering, hiking, skiing, sailing, and golf. True to its roots, Suunto is today the world's biggest compass manufacturer. Prized for their design, accuracy and dependability, Suunto sports instruments combine the aesthetics and functionality of watches with sport-specific computers that help athletes at all levels analyze and improve performance. Headquartered in Vantaa, Finland, Suunto employs more than 500 people worldwide and distributes its products to nearly 60 countries. The company is a subsidiary of Helsinki-based Amer Sports Corporation with the sister brands Wilson, Salomon, Atomic, Precor, and Mavic.

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Suunto Foot POD Mini Review

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(More customer reviews)This pod is quite difficult to calibrate and show correct readings when attached on the shoe. In my opinion it gives better readings when used inside a shoe designed for e.g. Adidas miCoach. However, Suunto does not guarantee that it will not brake when used inside a shoe. It also loses connection to the t6d every now and then when used inside a shoe.
Despite this I will give it a four star rating. Because once you get it calibrated it's very accurate. It's very small and you don't even notice it while running.

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Suunto Altimax Wrist-Top Computer Watch with Altimeter and Barometer Review

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(More customer reviews)This watch has many great features, and few shortcomings. The bad first, and then the good: First; It is quite big. At first it seems like a hockey puck has been strapped to your wrist. Second; it uses a barometer to guage altitude, and therefore it requires some study, attention to detail, and monitoring and adjustment to get the most out of it.
Now the mitigating factors on these shortcomings: First (large size); while it is a bit large on your wrist, it is quite lightweight, and after a while, you get used to it. Overall, it is quite comforable to wear. The large control buttons are easy to use in winter with gloves on. And, the large display makes the data easy to digest. Second (barometer-based altimeter); all the other altimeter watches on the market work in much the same way, so this shortcoming should not disqualify this watch in comparison to other climbing/skiing watches.
Now the good: First; it has the features you need and not a lot of others you don't. Timekeeping, altitude, barometer. That's it. No other gadgets to confuse and add to the cost. Second; it's very rugged. I've abused mine heartily and it's stood up very well. Third; the features it does have are comprehensive and well executed. Fourth; assuming you master the arcane science of tracking altitude with a barometer -based altimeter, this one is quite accurate compared to some others I've tried (like the casio models).
Quick summary of features: the basic timekeeping functions are great! Time, date, multiple alarms, countdown timer, stopwatch, dual time zone -- all work easily and intuitively.
In Altimeter mode, the main display gives you your current altitude and a quick display of your recent trend. After this, it get complicated. The feature set is robust, and you'll have to spend some time with the manual to master it. It will measure just about anything related to going up or down a mountain that you could ever think of. It can also log these things and remember them for your future use. It can be changed from measuring feet per minute skied (for example) to feet per hour climbed. You name it, this thing can record and measure it.
What I use it for mostly, is just to show me where I am on the mountain in terms of altitude. To do this, you'll need to know what the actual altitude is where you start (parking lot, for example) and use that to set the altimeter. From there, the watch will keep an extremely accurate account of where you go from there. The only problem will be if a new weather pattern moves in. This will cause a change of barometric pressure and will affect the accuracy of the altitude reading.
In barometer mode, this watch will also give you a very accurate warning of a new weather pattern moving in -- as long as you are not changing your altitude substantially. As with the altitude mode, you can ask it to log data into memory to see trends and keep track of pressure over time.
In summary, it is an excellent tool for mountaineers and skiers. Used properly, it is a very accurate tool for navigation and weather forecasting. However, expect to spend some time with the user manual to master the features before you ask it to help save your life. I've tried several of the other watches on the market (Casio, Avocet, Nike) with similar features and this is the best of the bunch.

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Vital data you need hiking, climbing, or skiing is just a glance away with the Suunto Altimax Wristop Computer. Get all the functionality of a watch, altimeter, and barometer in a stylish red design. The Altimax looks like a high-end wristwatch, with an ABS plastic body and resin wristband with a buckle closure. The body is black, with a ring of black around the dial and an oversized, backlit LCD screen. The Altimax is made tough, built to be waterproof even when submerged up to 100 feet.
The watch displays day, time, and date with three programmable alarms plus a stopwatch and countdown timer. The dual time function allows you to stay on time even when traveling in a different time zone. The Altimax also offers a combination of altimeter and barometer functions.
The altimeter allows you to view the current altitude with a range up to 29,500 feet and a resolution of 10 feet. Also view your ascent/descent rate in feet per minute. (All measurements are also available in metric units.) One-button access allows you to see immediate information about vertical ascent/descent and the number of runs skied.
The barometer allows you to measure the temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit, absolute pressure, and a difference measurement to follow changes in barometric pressure and temperature. The automatic four-day memory keeps track of atmospheric pressure information. Another feature is the adjustable sea-level pressure function.
The Altimax comes with a user-replaceable battery, which lasts up to 18 months, and a low-battery indicator. It is covered by a one-year warranty.

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Timex IronMan Global Trainer GPS Watch with Heart Rate Monitor Review

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(More customer reviews)I'm sending this watch back for several reasons. Here they are:
1. GPS Accuracy - It's not that great. When I run on the track I always run in the outside lane. However, this watch has me anywhere from the soccer goals in the infield to the street beyond the bleachers. When I'm running through town, there are times it's half a block off. From the map created with the GPS data, I couldn't tell if I was running on the street or in an alley. I don't expect a GPS watch to pinpoint my location exactly, but this was totally unacceptable.
Also, it takes forever to acquire a signal. Sometimes I'll be in my front yard for 5 minutes waiting for a signal. It's frustrating to be ready to run & have to wait. Once it locks on though, it doesn't drop it.
2. The Software - You must use this watch with TrainingPeaks ([...]) software. It's OK, but there are tons of other options out there. Being tied to one vendor is a recipe for disaster. TrainingPeaks is OK, but the really good stuff requires a paid membership. Not cool Timex.
3. It only records data every 2 seconds. Garmin watches record every second.
4. The elevation feature is a joke. There's a 5k route I take around town. I start/stop at my house, so the elevation gain/loss should be even. Nope, not according to Timex. Sometimes I gain hundreds of feet, sometimes I lose hundreds of feet. It's never the same, or even close.
5. Can't use a Foot Pod (or similar device) with it. No treadmill running during the winter.
Some good things...
I have a feeling a lot of this will be fixed in firmware updates (I'm running the latest firmware), but I'm not going to suffer through it. The watch it very sturdy; I never worried about hurting it. Also, it's more customizable then any watch I've ever used. - great for the geek in me.
Perhaps in 6 months or a year this watch will kick ass. However, as for right now, I ordered a Garmin Forerunner 310XT.

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Timex Global Trainer Triathlete Bundle (Heart Rate Monitor + Speed/Cadence Sensor) Review

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(More customer reviews)This is without question the worst product on the market I have yet experienced. The bottom line: take your chances with a different manufacturer.
If you want a watch that DOESN'T sync with the cadence monitor, DOESN'T sync with the heart rate monitor and rarely finds a GPS signal, then this watch is for you. If however you are a serious athlete, or just expect to get what you pay for, then you will be very disappointed in the Timex Global Trainer.
If you plan on taking your chances by purchasing this device and need to ship the watch back to Timex for repair, count on a 4 week inconvenience of being without the training device. The lousy warranty, return policy and customer service is Timex's way of saying thank you for being a sucker and buying our product.
In addition, data loaded from the watch to the Timex Device Agent software is out of sync. Loaded times, distances, etc. are off by a few seconds, feet, etc. The only explanation is poor firmware/software design and development. One more frustration you can look forward to if you purchase this product.
The Timex Global Trainer is a great concept, but unfortunately Timex failed to bring a reliable product to market, and more importantly, failed to understand the market itself. A training aid like this can be invaluable, when it works. If it doesn't work it's just an extreme annoyance embedded in an already demanding schedule.
I will never buy Timex products again. I don't like flushing money down the drain, and I have enough to worry about juggling work, training and family without troubleshooting what is suppose to be a simple piece of technology.
Spend your money with a company that "gets" athletes' and builds reliable products.

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Suunto GPS POD Review

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(More customer reviews)Have had my T6 for nearly 3 years with bike, shoe and now GPS pods. Have had GPS pod over a year and use it across several sports-- road and MT biking, running, adventure racing, and kayaking. Perfect tool for Ironmans, ARs, ultra-distance events-- Does everything I need it to do very well and unlike the other pods requires no calibration. Exceptional overall accuracy but for slower sports the momentary speed numbers may not always stay stable due to GPS inherent positional errors- not a Suunto problem but a GPS satellite problem. If you watch for a couple seconds you'll have a solid feel for your actual speed-- this is only an issue while running; my shoe pod has been fantastic when I've used it by comparison. Both are more than adequate for distance and average pacing and speed while biking is dead on. Distance is always accurate. Antenna sensitivity has been good for me; challenge has been the link between watch and pod, they need to be within arm's length to keep a good connection. Jersey pocket or same arm as watch is fine. Battery life 18-20 hours on alkalines, 30+ hours on lithium aaa's. I wouldn't trade mine for anything but only wish it added GPS altitude and lat/long/grid readouts to my T6.

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Garmin Charging Cradle for Forerunner 205 and 305 Review

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(More customer reviews)What's to say? It just works. Now if I could just remember where I put the original one.....

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Suunto X9i GPS Altimeter Compass Review

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(More customer reviews)I found the remarks of the one other positive reviewer quite a relief: the guy who pointed out that good performance of the GPS (i.e. the key unique feature distinguishing this watch from other Suunto models) hinges critically on whether or not you first get your satellite 'fix' properly. I have found that, if you wait the very first time you use it, to get a proper (not flashing) firm fix, then subsequent fixes have been relatively rapid (usually around 2 minutes in an urban environment. Once you have a lock-on, then subsequent performance is relatively fine.
I have a few minor gripes about the software visualisation. When it does loose satellite connection, rather than not graphing for the drop out period of time, the software includes the squiggly deviations to route when it can't locate you. This has the consequence that some journeys appear like I fly around or walk on water. This is not the case. I would prefer just blanks for drop-out periods of time. Any GPS device works much better in open spaces rather than built-up urban ramblings.
As a watch model, the comparable device is the Garmin forerunner. The Garmin probably has more 'stickability' and usability for its GPS (I have Garmin handheld for comparison). Its greater reception and stronger GPS reception is due to its bigger aerial. That means it's also bigger and probably emitting strange things into your arm. The battery life on Garmin receivers is very frustrating and I have had no problems with the x9i though its continual GPS use would be limited to 4-5 hours. Personally, I am prepared to live with the slightly more delicate reception of the x9i in order to use a much more elegant device. The watch looks like a watch and its smooth contours and rubberised grippy surface have design aesthetics and simplicity of display that Garmin doesn't. If you primarily (or only) use GPS, buy the Garmin. If you are concerned about looks and multi-function and if you are patient to setup a good connection first time, I think you will be pleasantly rewarded by this watch. I really like that it charges off my USB. Also, using Desktop Parallels and Win XP, I exchange the data into Trek Manager and X-loader uploading to Google with my Macbook ;-)

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Suunto Observer SR Wrist-Top Computer Watch with Altimeter, Barometer, Compass Review

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(More customer reviews)Truly a 'niche' product, the Suunto Observer defies classification. It's a sport watch, make no mistake, but Casio's line (particularly the 'G-Shocks') offer more for the money and MUCH increased battery life. It's several 'instruments' rolled into one, offering barometer, altimeter, compass and thermometer, but in a watch case, and, surprisingly, blending them into an attractive package.
If you're considering this 'wrist computer' (Suunto's term and fairly appropriate) for a 'techno' toy though, save your money. Typical of Suunto's products, it has stellar thinking behind it. Typical also it is cutting edge. However, also typical of products built and produced in Finland, it has an owner's manual that has to be about a 5 to 10 on the readability scale of a 100. Like all Scandinavian products, there is a concerted effort here to use icons whenever possible and it's like you walked into a Russian made helicopter; there may be icons, but you're still going to have to have someone explain it to you! But, like Suunto's diving gauges, one you cross the divide and spend some quality time with the manual, user reviews, internet postings and about 6 to 10 hours playing with it, you WILL have a grin on your face. It's an outstanding piece of technology, but only once you finally understand it.
A few points that may help you:
--I bought the stainless model (there is also a full rubber strap model and a titanium model). Realize it IS NOT a full stainless strap; it's a rubber strap with about 10 pieces of stainless for looks only. However, unlike some reviews posted, I truly LIKE the look and don't feel Suunto was cheesing out by just using stainless 'pieces' instead of a full stainless strap. It fits like a glove, once adjusted. It took me about 30 minutes to fit it perfectly.
--Other reviews give a hit or miss coverage of the DUAL opening latch on the strap. It does have 2 openings, the second is to give additional access if you have large hands/small wrists. One review stated, incorrectly, that the second latch undermines the first latches ability to hold it together tightly. If they would have examined the second latch in more detail, they would see that the primary latch COVERS the second with a gate, preventing it from opening. IN NO WAY does the second latch make this strap less strong. Typical Suunto, well engineered, but poorly documented.
--Carefully read one reviewer's lengthy discussion about how the barometric pressure and altitude settings work. They went into GREAT detail (more than I will here) covering how these two systems are interrelated and connected. Once you finally grasp it, it makes sense. For a summary, just remember this: When in camp, use the barometric setting; it will be very accurate when you do this. When on the trail, use the altitude setting. It's as simple as that.
--Some reviewers stated that the systems (any or all) aren't terribly accurate. WRONG. They are accurate. I've compared the barometer and altimeter to dedicated systems I have and they're very, very close. The compass matches a Brunton transit within a few degrees. Take the time to learn how to use them and they're very handy and very accurate.
--One reviewer stated that the battery life on the Casio's is far superior to the Suunto (even I did at the start of this review). That IS an accurate statement. What they left out though, is that the Suunto has an EASILY replaced battery that doesn't require the back of the watch to come off (Casio's DO require the back to be removed). So it's a toss up. I find on my Casio's that with regular backlight use, they get eaten up pretty quickly too. Realize, Casio only rates their batteries at ONE use of the backlight per day, and who only uses a backlight once a day? On their top rated G-Shock (which I also own) the battery life drops 2 YEARS when you use the backlight just twice a day. I'll take Suunto's approach any day; just use a dime to remove a separate cover for the battery and you're back in business.
--The Suunto has one thing no Casio has--it's stylish. Very European/high tech looking and built like a tank too. Make no mistake, I'll still wear my Casio if I'm diving, because I don't want to scratch the Suunto (kind of crazy isn't it? I'm not concerned about my Suunto dive gauges, lol).
So I'm giving the Suunto four stars; was considering three for the STEEP learning curve, but after I finally 'got it' I was grinning like a Cheshire cat. It is really a fun instrument to play with and truly does offer features in a unique package. Highly recommended, but don't buy it if you aren't willing to spend the time learning its nuances. One last note and one that helped me the most. I was frustrated with Suunto's labels of the buttons and finally adopted Casio's system that I kludged together. This watch has 4 buttons. De-program yourself from thinking of them in Suunto's terms. Use Casio's EXCELLENT system of calling the buttons A,B,C and D. Just make a little cheat sheat that corresponds to A,B,C and D. A is top left, B is top right, C is bottom left and D is bottom right. Once you convert Suunto's system to Casio's, it is SO much easier! Hope this helps someone!

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Suunto X9i GPS Altimeter Compass Review

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(More customer reviews)I found the remarks of the one other positive reviewer quite a relief: the guy who pointed out that good performance of the GPS (i.e. the key unique feature distinguishing this watch from other Suunto models) hinges critically on whether or not you first get your satellite 'fix' properly. I have found that, if you wait the very first time you use it, to get a proper (not flashing) firm fix, then subsequent fixes have been relatively rapid (usually around 2 minutes in an urban environment. Once you have a lock-on, then subsequent performance is relatively fine.
I have a few minor gripes about the software visualisation. When it does loose satellite connection, rather than not graphing for the drop out period of time, the software includes the squiggly deviations to route when it can't locate you. This has the consequence that some journeys appear like I fly around or walk on water. This is not the case. I would prefer just blanks for drop-out periods of time. Any GPS device works much better in open spaces rather than built-up urban ramblings.
As a watch model, the comparable device is the Garmin forerunner. The Garmin probably has more 'stickability' and usability for its GPS (I have Garmin handheld for comparison). Its greater reception and stronger GPS reception is due to its bigger aerial. That means it's also bigger and probably emitting strange things into your arm. The battery life on Garmin receivers is very frustrating and I have had no problems with the x9i though its continual GPS use would be limited to 4-5 hours. Personally, I am prepared to live with the slightly more delicate reception of the x9i in order to use a much more elegant device. The watch looks like a watch and its smooth contours and rubberised grippy surface have design aesthetics and simplicity of display that Garmin doesn't. If you primarily (or only) use GPS, buy the Garmin. If you are concerned about looks and multi-function and if you are patient to setup a good connection first time, I think you will be pleasantly rewarded by this watch. I really like that it charges off my USB. Also, using Desktop Parallels and Win XP, I exchange the data into Trek Manager and X-loader uploading to Google with my Macbook ;-)

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Garmin Foot Pod Review

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(More customer reviews)Edit: Amazon swiched products. This review is for the Garmin 010-11092-00 Foot Pod Personal GPS Tracker. For some reason they switched this product page to the old Garmin foot pod. I reviewed the new model.
I bought the foot pod so I could use my 405CX on an indoor track and have been pleased with the results.
Calibration was easy. On the Garmin 010-00658-30 Forerunner 405CX GPS Sport Watch with Heart Rate Monitor (Blue) you can calibrate it using the GPS or a 400m track. I chose to use the GPS and it had me run .66 of a mile. Was easy and seems to be pretty accurate. The only issue is that you need to calibrate it at the pace you usually run at. For instance I usually run at a 10 minute/mile pace but since I was only running .66 miles while calibrating it I ran at a much faster pace throwing it off a bit.
Running on a .10 mile indoor track after 3.5 miles it was off by about 50' more by the end of the run. Not perfect by any means but I could probably calibrate it more (or you can adjust it manually) to key it in.
I don't use it running while outside, but if you don't like the pace setting of the GPS you can have the watch display pace according to the foot pod instead.
Installation and removal is easy. The instructions say it will fit in an insole pocket if your shoe has one, but mine does not. To attach it to the laces you slide the mounting bracket under two X's where your shoe laces cross then snap the pod over the top. To remove you have to press a tab that unhooks it. It's very secure and takes a lot of pressure to remove it. I have no fear that it will come off while running.
I am very happy with the pod, it works very well, and is easy to use. If you want to use your GPS watch on a treadmill or indoor track during the winter months, it's a must have.

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Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor (Factory Refurbished) Review

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(More customer reviews)I like this thing quite a lot. I've had it for about three weeks, and have used it on 12 workouts so far. I use it primarily for running, with biking a secondary usage. The main reason I wanted it was for the instantaneous readout of distance, running pace and heart rate, the latter needed for the speed work I want to do this running season.
The core functionality (distance and heart rate monitoring) works perfectly. There's none of the signal drops I've had with other heart monitors. Once the satellites are initially acquired, I've only had one dropout when I was outside. The initial acquisition of the satellites can be quirky and can take some time. The accuracy (according to the readout) is +/- 25ft, depending on how many satellites can be found. I've compared the distance measurement on the GPS with a known, measured distance on one of the trails I run on (the Chicago lakefront path). The GPS always increments a mile when I'm within 5 or 10 feet of the mile marker sign on the path. Well, I guess that's the least I should expect from a $350 GPS unit! Of course it's bigger than a normal running stopwatch, but that hasn't bothered me at all. The heart rate strap is also very comfortable and well-designed.
The display is crisp and has one outstanding feature: The information presented on the various pages can be completely user-customized. The default screen layout is rather poor, but in just a few steps I could replace it with the information I wanted to see while I run. There are almost 40 different data fields you can choose from for display. Examples: current pace, average lap pace, average run pace, heartrate, distance.
The only disappointment is the point-in-time (instantaneous) pace measurement: It varies wildly during a run. I see swings as big as +/- 3 minutes/mile. I'm a marathoner and I know my pace is fairly consistent during a run. I just looked at my run today, and according to the data the first mile varied from 5:57/mile to 12:06 mile. I suspect the problem is either in the averaging algorithm (too short a distance?), or in the uncertainty that results from different satellites coming in and out of view. The variations seem to get worse under tree cover compared with an open area. Luckily there's a lap-average pace that can be presented, and at least that value is useful and more accurate. The bottom line is that you can't look at the watch and say "right now I'm running 9 mins/mile". There is the ability to specify a pace smoothing factor, but I have it maxed out and still see the variations. The elevation readout also seems inaccurate, but that isn't important to me.
Upload of workout data to the PC software (Training Center) is transparent. The PC software is very good for presenting time/distance/pace/heartrate/calorie data. However the maps it shows are very crude. I've worked a bit with one of the online, subscription services (MotionBased). That looks really good and provides some additional functionality beyond the included Training Center software, although I still haven't decided if it's worth the $$$ yet for long-term data storage. MotionBased allows export to Google Earth, and it's tremendously cool to see your running path superimposed on a satellite image. You can recharge the unit through the USB port on your computer, although it's slower than using the dedicated recharger.
I had hoped that owning this device would prove motivational for me, and indeed it has. I can't imagine running or biking without it. Updating my training log is trivial now: Plug this thing into my computer, and it's done. My hope is that a future software update will do something about the pace calculation (maybe a few additional levels of smoothing?). If so, the Forerunner 305 would earn 5 stars+++.Positives:
Flawless heart rate sampling
Great distance measuring and lap-average pace calculation
Seamless integration with a PC
Fully-automatic training log update
User-customizable displayNegatives;
Wildly-varying pace readout.


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