If you use any kind of sport or activity tracker for anything other than the most basic, casual run then you probably have a heart rate monitor (HRM) to go along with it. And, having worn a few in my time, I know how uncomfortable they can be. Well, it looks like Garmin agrees and wants to fix that.
This week, Garmin introduced two new heart rate monitors, the HRM-Tri and the HRM-Swim. Both devices are still in development but should be compatible with a number of its activity tracking devices including the Forerunner 920XT, Forerunner 620, Fenix 3, Fenix 3 and Epix. The HRMs are designed to be comfortable to wear with adjustable straps with hidden seams and smooth edges.
The HRM-Tri is, as the name implies, designed specifically for Triathlon athletes and can be used to monitor all activities including running and swimming. This device is reportedly the lightest HRM that Garmin has available and can measure a number of statistics both in and out of the water including advanced running dynamics like cadence, vertical oscillation and ground contact time.
For those more interested in monitoring while in the pool, the HRM-Swim is designed specifically for swimmers with a strap that provides minimal drag and stays in place during push-offs. The device stores heart rate data and forwards it to a connected compatible device once the swim is over or between rests out of the pool.
Both devices feature user-replaceable batteries that, according to Garmin, should last nearly a year. They are also both compatible with Garmin Connect and Garmin Connect Mobile, which will allow for monitoring, comparing, sharing and live tracking during activities. Live tracking does require a subscription, but other activities via Garmin Connect are free to all users.
The HRM-Tri and HRM-Swim are expected to be available in Q3 of 2015, which means it’ll still be a few months out. The HRM-Tri ie expected to retail by itself for around $129 while the HRM-Swim should be closer to $100. Both devices can be purchased as part of an accessory bundle for $199. There will also be a promotional special edition of the Forerunner 920XT Tr-Bundle which will include a black/silver forerunner 920XT, both new HRMs and a quick release kit for a suggested retail price of around $600.
For more information on Garmin devices including HRMs and activity trackers, visit Garmin’s website.
