Chest Belts for Heart Rate

[EddieO]

I've never used a chest belt for my heart rate. Any opinions as to the differences between the Polar H7 and the Garmin regarding quality, latest technology, fit, etc … thanks.

[ericallenboyd]

They are all about the same honestly and I have had both. Some people have a strong dislike for chest hr straps. I have worn one for such a long time I am used to it and still wear a garmin softstrap. My dad has a scosche rhythm+ which is a hr strap that you wear on your arm and he likes it. Only downside is you have to charge it and it only lasts for 8 hours at a time. 8 hours is a long time but the other straps take a coin cell battery which last years on one battery. the 8 hours can also be limiting if you do any ultra running or hiking, etc

[gregsmith01748]

Hi,

The most important criteria is what you want to use it with. If you are looking for a Bluetooth strap to use with your phone, then go with the Wahoo Tikr. If you want to use it it with the PM4 or PM5, it is also a good choice. I've had problems with the reliability of the bluetooth connection on the Polar H7, but I use it anyway because it has support for the polar standard that is built into the PM3 and the speedcoach in my boat. It works OK, but is sometime pretty fussy.

Both of them seem to go through the batteries pretty quickly, so buy them in bulk!

[EddieO]

Eric and Greg, thanks for your input ... going with the Polar belt along with a SkiErg, looking forward to using them.

[jimdavis]

The Polar H7 is compatible with the spinning bikes and other equipment at my workout center. That might prove to be valuable for some.

[Carl Watts]

Garmin is great if you have the PM4, its doesn't have the 6 foot range problem or interference problems of the Polar because it pairs with the PM4 on the ANT+ system.

[thecrashton]

I just bought a Wahoo Tickr and it's great... very hassle-free. Connected to my Android phone in about half a second right out of the box. Also paired effortlessly with my TomTom Runner Multisport GPS watch. It is Bluetooth and ANT+ compatible. I purchased it after some recommendations from folks on this board. Their smartphone app is also enjoyable - it allows you to do either a basic resting test or a rest/work test to determine your burn versus blast heartrates, etc.
It's pretty cool and I got it for a good price on Amazon.ca