So we’re a little gadget freaks around here, expect more and more awesome stuff for running and hiking and diving and all them outdoor activities… oh just check it out:
Description: The Garmin 310xt running GPS watch (Amazon) is equipped with several features designed to improve your performance. This review goes over its most important features, the pros and cons and if it is worth the price.
The Garmin 310xt has quickly become one of Garmin’s most popular running watches, and it’s definitely equipped with a lot of features like a performance tracker, an optional heart monitor and more. But does it really deliver the goods or is this just another highly touted product that fails to deliver when it counts?
Let’s take a look at the 310xt
Features
The Garmin forerunner 310xt has an extensive feature list, but it’s best to start with the fact that it is waterproof down to a depth of 50 meters, very impressive when you consider the fact that some of the other GPS devices aren’t even water resistant. According to Garmin, this is a training tool for triathletes so it’s built to endure.
The watch certainly looks and feels sturdy so you don’t need to worry about the device cracking up while you’re running.
This GPS watch is capable of tracking your run / bike data and submit the information to your computer for analysis and record keeping. There’s full support for wireless data transfer which is really nice, plus the battery life is good for up to 20 hours so on a full charge it’s not going to run out while you’re on the run.
But for many the most impressive feature on the watch is its ability to monitor your heart rate along with the distance you’ve covered as well as your pace. And as noted earlier, this GPS running watch is waterproof down to 50 meters so you can use it to gauge your performance. In addition, the slim design makes it comfortable to wear, and it is flexible too. Because the watch is so durable, you can use it in different conditions without worrying about wear and tear.
The package includes
- the watch,
- a quick start guide,
- the owner’s manual,
- a charging clip,
- the AC charger and
- the USB ANT stick.
Ease of Use
One of the highlights of the 310xt is the ease with which it makes the transition from one sport to the next. The quick release on the device means it goes easily from your wrist to your bike, and the mounts ensure that it stays fit on your bike. More than anything else, it’s the way the watch manages to combine activities from different sports in a single workout.
You’ll like the fact that the watch offers several tools that help you analyze the data you get, and it’s a breeze to set up and use. Its GPS system is very precise and sensitive, and it can acquire satellites very fast, something other watches have a hard time doing.
In addition, the watch can track your position even when you’re under a tree or buildings. As anyone who’s tried using GPS devices before can tell you, GPS systems often fail when you’re anywhere near trees or buildings, but it’s good to know that isn’t a problem here.
The watch is great as it is, but when paired with the optional heart monitor it works even better, and it runs with a cadence sensor and foot pod as well. When you hook the 310xt with the heart rate monitor the device assesses your beats per minute and relies on this data to calculate your calorie consumption. The watch also helps you train in a specific heart zone to increase physical fitness and health.
Once you’re done running, the watch automatically transmits the information to your computer as long as the watch is in range. Because it supports wireless transfer, there’s no need for hookups or cables. Just make sure you’re within range and the watch will do the rest.
You can arrange the data any way you want, and you can share it with others in the community, the optional Garmin Training Center application or Garmin Connect. You may also use your computer to plan workouts according to the results of the data. In other words, this is a versatile watch that doesn’t compromise in functionality.
Specifications
- Battery life: 20 hours
- Warranty: 1 year
- Display Resolution: 100 x 100
- Display Size: 1.5 inches
- Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries (included)
- Product Dimensions: 2.1 x 0.8 x 2.2 inches
- Weight: 1.6 ounces
Stuff we really loved
The Garmin 310 has several notable features and benefits:
- Versatile, can be used for swimming, running, biking and other sports
- Supports wireless data upload
- Durable
- Easy to setup
Could be improved
- The interface may take a while to get used to
- You’ll definitely need to read the manual to get the most out of this watch
What Customers Say
If you have read a Garmin forerunner 310xt review lately, odds are it is a positive one, and that’s not surprising as it’s received numerous four and five star ratings. Tim of Sacramento for instance, says the 310xt is “exactly” what he was looking for and he uses it for biking and running “all the time”, and it hasn’t failed him.
Brenda of Seattle also gave the watch five stars, and says she’s impressed with its durability and design. Another customer, Danny of Albuquerque, says the Garmin is the “most versatile watch” he’s ever owned, and he particularly likes the way it transmits data quickly.
There are a lot more reviews about the Garmin online, and the feedback are very much like those above. Granted there are a few negative reviews, but by and large the responses from customers are very positive.
Conclusion
The Garmin 310xt is one of the best GPS watches that Garmin has released. It’s suitable for athletes and anyone who wants to keep track of their performance. Yes you do need to read the manual, but it’s worth it because the 310xt simply has a lot to offer. It’s a running watch with lots of bells and whistles true, but in this case they’re usable and practical.
You can check the prices for 310 XT on Amazon under this link.
