Which GPS watches do you guys recommend?
When I'm swimming in open water, I want to know the straight-line distance of the course. I'm not nearly as interested in how much extra I ended up swimming by veering off course. That's an interesting data point, but I don't get credit for the extra distance in a race, so I don't count it in training either.
Because of that, I don't care too much about the swim correction feature. I'm fine if the data ends up with a bunch of zig-zags. As long as I can hit lap to pinpoint landmarks on the course, I can figure out the straight-line distance in Google Earth.
I do care about how quickly it can get a signal.
A lot of my triathlete buddies have the Garmin 310XT. That seems to have a bunch of features I don't need. Plus, I think it's really ugly. I truly hate the idea of spending that much money on a humongous gray and orange watch.
The reviews I read on Timex and Polaris GPS watches don't look that great--I see a lot of complaints about them being slow to connect and the software being a pain to use. Have any of you had good experiences with them? What about lower-end Garmin models?
If I did break down and get the 310XT, would I ever even be wearing it on my wrist, or would I have to wear it under my cap?
Parents
Former Member
I know that all GPS watches are not that accurate in water, but still it it better than nothing. You complained about the size of the Garmin 310XT - well I think you should look at the battery aspect. The battery of the Garmin 310XT works for up to 20 hours workout. I personally like the grey orange style. I read a nice review about the Garmin Forerunner 310XT. I definitely also want to check out the latest Garmin models. It all boils down to how much you want to spend. I just love the Garmin watches - so that's why I would not go with a different brand.
I know that all GPS watches are not that accurate in water, but still it it better than nothing. You complained about the size of the Garmin 310XT - well I think you should look at the battery aspect. The battery of the Garmin 310XT works for up to 20 hours workout. I personally like the grey orange style. I read a nice review about the Garmin Forerunner 310XT. I definitely also want to check out the latest Garmin models. It all boils down to how much you want to spend. I just love the Garmin watches - so that's why I would not go with a different brand.
