For those of us who just swim lengths in pools, keeping track of where we've swum is pretty easy. When it comes to triathletes and other people who swim in lakes or the open ocean, however, there aren't any lane markers to look back on. Instead, they can now use the Hydro Tracker GPS, made by California water sports tech company FINIS. The waterproof device attaches to the user's goggle straps, then uses GPS technology to create a map of where they've been, while also recording performance data.
The Hydro Tracker doesn't require any calibration - it features two-button operation, and using it pretty much just consists of turning it on when one hits the water. Because its goggle-strap attachment method keeps it located on the back of the head, it is able to maintain a fairly consistent GPS signal connection ... assuming the user doesn't swim on their back too much, presumably.
It's powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, that's good for up to 16 hours of use per charge. In order to come close to that 16-hour figure, users will want to adjust the GPS data sampling rate, so that information is gathered at farther-spaced intervals.
Of course, just because the device is waterproof doesn't mean that it has to be used in the water. It can also be placed in a neoprene armband and worn on runs, hikes or bike trips, where it will provide additional information such as elevation.
The Hydro Tracker GPS is available now via the FINIS website, for US$129.99.