Garmin HRM-Fit Review

I've been most impressed by how comfortable the HRM-Fit is when I've used it for workouts and easy runs. With the three bra clips, it doesn't slide around even on the most demanding trail runs. Although I've only worn the HRM-Fit in low-humidity, I haven't encountered any chafing in even the warmest conditions.

I've found that it's best to attach the middle clip first and then make sure there aren't any ripples in the strap before attaching the two end clips to the sports bra. As long as you have a medium to high-impact sports bra, the HRM-Fit should get enough contact to provide accurate readings when attached properly. 

As far as fit and comfort goes, I usually forget I'm wearing the HRM-Fit, so I'd say Garmin achieved what they were hoping to with this device. 

Set-Up
When I initially recieved the device, I noticed that the package insert instructions were rather minimal. If you're uncertain about setting up the HRM-Fit, it's probably best to navigate to the Garmin HRM-Fit Manual on their website.

My mistake made during setup was the result of unclear instructions; instead of first pairing the device to the Garmin Connect app, I assumed that I could simply pair it to my watch and then use it straight away. However, after getting a few wildly inaccurate readings for workouts, I called tech support and they instructed me to pair with Garmin Connect. Since then, the issues seem to have been resolved.

On the whole, the HRM-Fit is incredibly easy to use. Simply get it wet, clip it on, and it will pair to your watch once it senses contact with your skin. There aren't any buttons to push or device settings to fuss with, so if you enjoy that kind of simplicity, this device could be a good fit for you. 

Accuracy

To assess accuracy of the HRM-Fit, I also the Polar Verity Sense armband in recording mode for an easy run and a workout. I paired the HRM-Fit directly to my Garmin Epix Gen 2 GPS Watch while the Verity Sense recorded data and uploaded to the Polar app.

Despite minor discrepancies in maximums, I found the data to be quite similar across devices. The HRM-Fit shows a few signs of disconnecting/reconnecting during an activity, but these issues don't seem to impact the data files too much.

I have noticed that bra fit and moisture impact the HRM-Fit's accuracy more than I would like. Bras with looser bands around the rib cage tend to throw off the readings. The sports bra I've found the most success with is the Brooks 3-Pocket bra. 
 
Prior to exercise, the HRM-Fit must be wet! I've found that in cold weather and wind, the HRM-Fit dries out quickly, and without sweat to keep the sensors wet, readings can be thrown off. If you're planning to use heart rate data to train through winter, this could be an issue worth considering. 

The HRM-Fit has several great qualities that make it a good fit for runners who want accurate heart rate data with an easy-to-use device.

• Comfortable, chafe-free, and stays in place
• No-fuss use 
• Great battery life (no need to recharge every few days)
• Compatible with loads of Garmin devices (see full list here)

On the other hand, I'm not sure that the HRM-Fit is relevant in the age of armband heart rate monitors from Polar and Coros. With the $150 price-tag, I think it's a somewhat expensive novelty. I appreciate the thoughtful design for bra-wearers, but for my personal needs, my Polar armband suffices.

However, if you're a runner who can't stand having something around their arm and hasn't found a comfortable chest strap, this might be your solution!