Polar S625X

Review Date
June 12, 2006

Overall Rating
 1 of 5

Value Rating
 1 of 5

Visitors rate this review
1.00 of 5, 1 votes

Reviewed by: fozy ,  Day Hiker

Price Paid:  $335.00 at online

Summary:
If you purchase any Polar product, you better hope nothing ever happens to it. These units are prone to failure and their "customer service" is insulting.

Customer Service:
There are people who will talk to you on the phone but service is one thing they are not prepared to offer. After sending in another failed Polar unit they are barely able to tell you why it no longer works and then offer to charge you $200 for the repair.

Similar Products Used:
Polar S710i

Review Date
March 26, 2006

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Visitors rate this review
5.00 of 5, 1 votes

Reviewed by: jeff@carlsonaccounting.co ,  Backpacker

Price Paid:  $350.00 at Quest Training Cente

Summary:
I purchased this unit for triathlon training and love it! I used it for a year by itself with the Polar Software to track workouts and races.
- Software: I recently purchased PC Coach software to use with it. This is an awesome combination!
- Accessories: I use the footpod for running! It is extremely accurate compared to race distance and treadmill workouts. I just ordered the cadence sensor for cycling.
- Size: I see the large size as a benefit. I have big hands and don't like to fumble around for buttons while racing or working out.
- Sensor: The soft wearlink sensor is very comfortable!
- Compatibility - I've used this unit on two treadmills and the sensor communicated perfectly with the treadmill computer. Friend uses Nike and no interference with sensors.
- Setup and use are very friendly. The manual has a function map that shows how to get around the many features.
- Display: The information displayed during workouts is easy to navigate and very informative. They fit a lot of info onto the screen that can be changed on the fly.
- Programming - The watch allows you to program workouts. I use PCCoach software to build them and they load to and from the watch quickly. I select witch workout I want today and the watch walks me through it
- Swimming: The sensor has to be tight around my chest if really working out in the pool, but the watch keeps time and HR very well.
- Daytime use: Someone mentioned the display in sunlight on another site.I haven't had a problem with it, but just like any other glass it is distorted when wearing polarized glasses. Its not that bad though.
I recommend this monitor to any serious or aspiring athlete who loves toys that will really help you build strength and endurance. If you will take advantage of the features you'll love this unit.

Customer Service:
- Store: The Quest Training Center in Sebring is an outstanding facility owned and run by athletes who are actively involved in the gym and many different sports.
- Polar: I found the Polar manuals and website to be very helpful. Because of the plethera of features on this watch I find myself using the website to access the user manual regularly. I haven't had any problems with the unit that required contacting Polar.

Similar Products Used:
First monitor! My training buddy uses an entry level Nike and really likes it.