| PRODUCT |
VITAL STATS |
THE SKINNY |
Polar M61 |
This watch/transmitter belt combo is water resistant to 30 meters; records heart rate and calorie intake; and includes a clock, a calendar, and a timer. |
In our informal tests, the M61 was generally accurate. But alas, we don't like the design. It's a nice choice for swimmers, though, thanks to the deep water resistance. |
GoPhysical MioShape Select Elite |
The GoPhysical is water resistant to 10 meters; records heart rate and calorie intake; includes a clock, a calendar, and a timer; and uses two finger buttons to take heart-rate measurements. |
This is an easy-to-use, accurate heart-rate monitor built into a watch stylish enough to pass for everyday wear. |
Highgear WalkBuddy |
The WalkBuddy clips to shoe or belt; includes a clock, a calendar, a timer, and a step counter; and records weight and calorie intake. |
It's lightweight and easy to use and comes equipped with a sensitivity setting so that you can find the sweet spot for your stride. We just wish it had a larger LCD; the WalkBuddy's is the size of a dime. |
Sportline Fitness Pedometer 360 |
Sportline's best-selling pedometer includes a clock, a timer, and a step counter. It records weight and calorie intake and can store all of that data for up to seven days. |
This device has essentially all of the WalkBuddy's features but with a nicer, easier-to-read LCD. Unfortunately, its three-button menu is hard to use, especially when you're on the go. |
Nike iMara HRM |
Designed for women, the slender Nike iMara comes with a transmitter belt for measuring your heart rate. It calculates speed, distance, and calories burned; it also comes with two interval timers, programmable HR training zones, and a stopwatch. |
We were really happy with this device--especially its ability to program heart-rate training zones, though we wish the Zone Alarms were louder. Add the ability to upload the data the iMara collects to a PC, and we'd be psyched. |
Nike SDM Tailwind |
This well-designed, splashproof pod clips to your shoe and calculates distance, pace, calories burned, and cumulative distance. |
We found the Tailwind's measurements a bit off during our first couple of test runs, but a quick recalibration remedied the situation. The pod didn't bother us while we ran, but you can't check the readings while your feet are moving. If you just want to be able to review your workouts afterward--and not compete against the watch--it's a good pick. |
Freestyle Pacer Pro |
The Pacer Pro looks and feels very similar to the Sportline 360. It calculates distance, calories burned, and average speed per mile. It also includes an interval lap timer. |
The design is a little chintzy, but the Pacer Pro is good at what it's designed to do. |
Send feedback
E-mail to a friend
10 do-it-all sport watches
