12.16.2010

Garmin Premium Heart Rate Monitor Review

A few months ago, the Green Girl purchased a Garmin Premium Heart Rate Monitor (Soft Strap) from Heart Rate Monitors USA.

This was a replacement for the heart rate monitor that shipped with Mr. Green Garmin.

I found the original strap to be uncomfortable. Although the plastic was fairly flexible, it still caused chafing and left marks.

While searching online for anti-chafe solutions, I was directed to DC Rainmaker's comparison of the original strap, the Premium strap, and a newer version of the Premium strap in his Garmin Edge 800 In Depth First Look Review blog post.

You can imagine my disappointment when my Premium Heart Rate Monitor arrived and I realized I had received an inferior current model.

I decided I would give it a try and if I had problems with it, I would contact the manufacturer and try to exchange it for the latest and purportedly, greatest.

The Premium model features a snap enclosure on both sides as opposed to the 'twist and secure' on the stock strap.

I had concerns the metal snaps would loosen and become less effective but this has not been the case.

The strap is extremely easy to put on and take off.

Instead of extending the flexible plastic like the stock model, the chest transmitter contacts are built into the soft strap.

The first time I went out for a run with the Premium strap, I tucked it under the bottom band of my sports bra just as I had worn the previous model but the plastic piece was too bulky.

The next time I wore it, I lowered it so it was just below my sports bra and that worked out perfectly. It's so comfortable that I often forget I have it on.

I love my Premium Heart Rate Monitor. I'm also pleased to report I have not had any reading issues.

6 comments:

  1. I actually like the old and big strap. I have two garmin straps and that is the one I prefer. I guess it is just a personal thing. Now the best strap I have ever had - Polar but unfortunately it does not work with garmin.

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  2. I'm so glad it worked out for you. I have the premium strap also and it has worked well for me.

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  3. I haven't opened my 305 yet (7 more days!) but will be interested in trying out the HR feature.

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  4. YAY for a working HR monitor.
    My Green Garmin didn't come with the HR attachment - I should look into that one day when I'm rich (when will that be??); there are days when I will wear two watches - my Garmin and my HR monitor. Yeah, I'm a dork like that!!

    So so so fun chatting with ya yesterday. We must do that more often, yes?? Totally made my day!
    (HUGS)

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  5. It's Awesome that it worked out for you. I'm going to be starting my own HRM search soon so your comments were very helpful!

    Happy Holidays!

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  6. The best thig about the Premium strap is that if the strap itself wear out (as in elastic stretches) it an easy and cheap(er) fix than buying a whole new HR strap!

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