Garmin outs Foretrex GPS wrist units

Fwd Tech  Wednesday 17 June 2009

Garmin Foretrex GPS trackers: maps on your wrist

Those masters of satellite navigation, Garmin, have just unveiled a pair of Garmin Foretrex GPS trackers that are so suited to Xtreme sports we’re surprised Garmin didn’t rename it the ForetreXXX. Ha ha, HA. Anyway, we digress.

The Garmin Foretrex 401 and 301 are are designed specifically for rugged activities, with Garmin making the pair of wrist-strappable devices durable and waterproof. But its the GPS abilities that make these what they are. They’re WAAS friendly for superb GPS accuracy that won’t drop even when you’re stuck down a well (for all the good that’ll do). You can also chart your route, and then turn on the TracBack feature for reverse directions. You can also store up to 20 routes, as well as 500 way points for points of interest you might find. Getting lost? Thing of the past my friend.

The Garmin Foretrex 401 distinguishes itself from the 301 with an electronic compass and barometer, but that sucks some of the battery life from it down to 17 hours compared to the 301’s 18 hours. Still, mightily impressive though.

We’re still waiting for a UK release date and prices for these wristy customers, but as soon as we get them, we’ll let you know…