Best Triathlon Heart Rate Monitors for 2023

Triathlon is a demanding sport that requires discipline, endurance, and the right gear. A crucial piece of equipment for any triathlete is a heart rate monitor, which can help you track your progress and stay within your target heart rate zone. But with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the best one for your needs.

When looking for the best triathlon heart rate monitor, there are several things to consider. First, you’ll want to think about the type of heart rate monitor you prefer. Some triathletes prefer chest strap monitors, while others prefer wrist-based monitors. You’ll also want to consider the battery life, water resistance, and compatibility with other devices like your smartphone or GPS watch.

In this article, we’ll be focusing on the best triathlon heart rate monitors on the market today. We’ve researched and tested a variety of models to help you find the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned triathlete or just starting out, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and explore the top options for the best triathlon heart rate monitors.

Best Triathlon Heart Rate Monitors

If you’re a triathlete, you know that monitoring your heart rate during training and races is crucial for achieving your best performance. A good triathlon heart rate monitor can help you track your heart rate, distance, speed, and other important metrics. With so many options available, it can be tough to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best triathlon heart rate monitors on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’re sure to find the perfect monitor for your needs.

Garmin HRM-PRO

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line heart rate monitor for your triathlon training, the Garmin HRM-PRO is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The HRM-PRO transmits real-time heart rate data to your Garmin device, compatible fitness equipment, and online training apps via ANT technology and Bluetooth Low Energy technology.
• It captures running dynamics, including vertical oscillation, ground contact time, stride length, and vertical ratio, to help improve your running form.
• The HRM-PRO stores heart rate data during swimming or other activities out of range of your Garmin watch and automatically sends it to your device after your swim or activity.

Cons

• The HRM-PRO is on the pricier side compared to other heart rate monitors on the market.
• Some users have reported connectivity issues with certain Garmin devices.
• The HRM-PRO may not be as comfortable for some users as other heart rate monitors.

The Garmin HRM-PRO is a premium heart rate strap that offers a range of features to help you optimize your triathlon training. With its ability to transmit real-time heart rate data and capture running dynamics, it’s a great tool for improving your performance. The HRM-PRO is also lightweight and easy to use, with a small heart rate monitoring module that’s no wider than the width of the soft, comfortable strap.

One of the standout features of the HRM-PRO is its ability to store heart rate data during swimming or other activities out of range of your Garmin watch. This means you can still track your heart rate during these activities and get an accurate picture of your overall training. The HRM-PRO also stores steps, calories, intensity minutes, and heart rate, syncing with your compatible Garmin watch when in range.

While the HRM-PRO is a great heart rate monitor, it does come with a higher price tag than some other options on the market. Additionally, some users have reported connectivity issues with certain Garmin devices, so it’s important to make sure your device is compatible before purchasing. Finally, while the HRM-PRO is designed to be comfortable, some users may find it less comfortable than other heart rate monitors they’ve used in the past.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality heart rate monitor that offers a range of features to help you optimize your triathlon training, the Garmin HRM-PRO is an excellent choice.

Garmin HRM-Pro Plus

If you’re looking for a reliable heart rate monitor that can help you improve your form and track your progress, the Garmin HRM-Pro Plus is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The premium heart rate strap transmits accurate real-time heart rate and heart rate variability data via ANT plus technology and BLUETOOTH Low Energy technology to Garmin devices, compatible fitness equipment, the Tacx Training app, and other apps.
• Captures running dynamics, such as vertical oscillation, ground contact time, stride length, vertical ratio, and more, to help improve your form and enable running power on your compatible Garmin watch.
• Computes pace and distance for treadmill or indoor track workouts.

Cons

• The HRM-Pro Plus is a bit expensive compared to other heart rate monitors on the market.
• Some users have reported that the strap can be uncomfortable during long workouts.
• The battery life isn’t as long as some other heart rate monitors.

The Garmin HRM-Pro Plus is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable and accurate heart rate monitor that can help them improve their form and track their progress. The premium heart rate strap transmits accurate real-time heart rate and heart rate variability data via ANT plus technology and BLUETOOTH Low Energy technology to Garmin devices, compatible fitness equipment, the Tacx Training app, and other apps. This makes it easy to track your heart rate and other important metrics during your workouts.

In addition to tracking your heart rate, the HRM-Pro Plus also captures running dynamics, such as vertical oscillation, ground contact time, stride length, vertical ratio, and more. This can help you improve your form and enable running power on your compatible Garmin watch. The HRM-Pro Plus also computes pace and distance for treadmill or indoor track workouts, making it a versatile tool for any triathlete.

While the HRM-Pro Plus is a bit expensive compared to other heart rate monitors on the market, it’s worth the investment if you’re serious about tracking your progress and improving your form. Some users have reported that the strap can be uncomfortable during long workouts, but this is a minor issue for most users. The battery life isn’t as long as some other heart rate monitors, but it’s still sufficient for most workouts. Overall, the Garmin HRM-Pro Plus is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a reliable and accurate heart rate monitor.

Polar H9 Heart Rate Sensor M-XXL

If you’re looking for a reliable heart rate monitor that can track your heart rate and calorie burn for all your everyday sports activities, then the Polar H9 Heart Rate Sensor M-XXL is a great choice. It has excellent connectivity options, works with various apps and sports watches, and is built on decades of scientific research and development.

Pros

• Reliable heart rate tracking for all your everyday sports activities.
• Excellent connectivity options with many sports and smartwatches, activity trackers, gym equipment, and other Bluetooth and ANT+ devices.
• Affordable and trusted choice of HR sensor that fulfills all your needs.

Cons

• The battery life of 400 hours may not be sufficient for some users who engage in prolonged sports activities.
• The protective film over the HR sensor may be difficult to remove for some users.
• The Ant+ connection may not be strong enough to make a reliable connection to some handlebar mounted devices when cycling outdoors.

The Polar H9 Heart Rate Sensor M-XXL is an ideal jack-of-all-trades sensor for all your everyday sports activities. From gym to indoor cycling via jogging and group exercise, track your heart rate and get an accurate calorie burn. The device connects to many popular fitness and training apps, including Polar Beat, Polar Club, Peloton, Nike+ Run Club, and many more.

The Polar H9 Heart Rate Sensor M-XXL is built on decades of scientific research and development, and it is recognized by both regular users and researchers around the globe as the Gold Standard in HR tracking. The device is an affordable and trusted choice of HR sensor that fulfills all your needs.

The Polar H9 Heart Rate Sensor M-XXL has excellent connectivity options. It connects to sports and smartwatches from Polar, Garmin, Wahoo, Zwift, Peloton, and many others. It also connects to activity trackers, gym equipment, and other Bluetooth and ANT+ devices. The device can use Bluetooth, ANT+ and 5 kHz technologies simultaneously, making it a versatile and reliable heart rate monitor.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable heart rate monitor that can track your heart rate and calorie burn for all your everyday sports activities, then the Polar H9 Heart Rate Sensor M-XXL is a great choice. It offers excellent connectivity options, works with various apps and sports watches, and is built on decades of scientific research and development.

Garmin HRM-Dual Heart Rate Monitor

If you’re looking for a reliable and comfortable heart rate monitoring solution, the Garmin HRM-Dual Heart Rate Monitor is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The soft strap is comfortable and adjustable, making it easy to wear for extended periods.
• The heart rate module is removable and washable, ensuring that you can keep it clean and hygienic.
• With a battery life of up to 3.5 years, you won’t have to worry about running out of juice anytime soon.

Cons

• The heart rate monitor doesn’t connect to the GarminConnect app, and many apps that work with it are pay to use.
• Some reviewers reported issues with the transmitter not working correctly, even after trying all the troubleshooting steps.
• The screen size is relatively small, which may make it challenging to read the heart rate data while in motion.

The Garmin HRM-Dual Heart Rate Monitor is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and straightforward heart rate monitoring solution. The soft strap is comfortable and adjustable, making it easy to wear for extended periods. Additionally, the heart rate module is removable and washable, ensuring that you can keep it clean and hygienic.

With a battery life of up to 3.5 years, you won’t have to worry about running out of juice anytime soon. However, some reviewers reported issues with the transmitter not working correctly, even after trying all the troubleshooting steps. Additionally, the heart rate monitor doesn’t connect to the GarminConnect app, and many apps that work with it are pay to use.

Overall, if you’re looking for an accurate and reliable heart rate monitor, the Garmin HRM-Dual Heart Rate Monitor is an excellent choice. However, if you’re looking for a heart rate monitor that connects to the GarminConnect app, you may want to consider other options.

Wahoo TICKR Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap, Bluetooth, ANT+ White

If you’re looking for a reliable heart rate monitor that can connect to your favorite training apps and devices, the Wahoo TICKR Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap is worth considering.

Pros

• Accurate heart rate and calorie tracking
• Dual-band technology for wireless connection to smartphones and GPS devices
• Integrated chest strap design for secure fit and prevention of sliding and shifting during workouts

Cons

• Some users reported issues with the device malfunctioning after a few months of use
• The price may be higher than some other heart rate monitors on the market
• The strap may not fit comfortably for all users

The Wahoo TICKR Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap is a great option for triathletes who want to accurately track their heart rate, calorie burn, and workout duration in real-time. With dual-band technology, you can connect the device wirelessly to both your smartphone and GPS device at the same time or separately. The integrated chest strap design prevents sliding and shifting during workouts, ensuring a secure fit.

However, some users have reported issues with the device malfunctioning after a few months of use, which could be a concern for those looking for a long-term investment. Additionally, the price may be higher than some other heart rate monitors on the market, which could be a drawback for those on a budget. Finally, the strap may not fit comfortably for all users, which could be a concern for those with larger body types.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable heart rate monitor that can connect to your favorite training apps and devices, the Wahoo TICKR Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap is worth considering. However, you should weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a purchase to ensure that it meets your needs and budget.

COOSPO Heart Rate Monitor Armband HW807

If you’re looking for a reliable and accurate heart rate monitor for your triathlon training, the COOSPO Heart Rate Monitor Armband HW807 is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The patented optical sensor technology provides highly accurate heart rate monitoring with a deviation of only ±1 BPM.
• The armband can track and capture training zones and calories burned on your smartphone or tablet with compatible training apps.
• The heart rate monitor armband can monitor HR zones with different color LED light, letting you see your exercise status more intuitively.

Cons

• The armband is not recommended for swimming, as it is only IP67 waterproof.
• Some users have experienced difficulty connecting the monitor to their fitness apps or devices.
• The LED lights on the armband may be difficult to see in bright sunlight.

The COOSPO Heart Rate Monitor Armband HW807 is a great option for triathletes who want accurate heart rate monitoring during their training sessions. The patented optical sensor technology ensures that you get highly accurate heart rate data, with a deviation of only ±1 BPM. The armband is also compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, Garmin, Wahoo sport watches, GPS bike computers, and fitness equipment.

One of the standout features of this heart rate monitor armband is its ability to monitor HR zones with different color LED light. This makes it easy to see your exercise status at a glance, and to adjust your training accordingly. The armband also supports heart rate variability (HRV) function, which can be useful for tracking your recovery and overall fitness level.

While the armband is not recommended for swimming, it is IP67 waterproof, which means that it can withstand rain and sweat. The battery life is also impressive, with up to 20 hours of use on a single charge.

Overall, the COOSPO Heart Rate Monitor Armband HW807 is a solid choice for triathletes who want accurate and reliable heart rate monitoring during their training sessions. With its advanced sensor technology, LED light monitoring, and compatibility with a wide range of devices and apps, this armband is definitely worth considering.

Polar Vantage V – Premium GPS Multisport Watch for Multisport & Triathlon Training (Heart Rate Monitor, Running Power, Waterproof), Pro (Includes H10 HRM Chest Strap), Orange

Discover the winner within yourself with Polar Vantage V – a premium multisport watch designed for pro athletes – and for anyone who trains like a pro.

Pros

• The ultra-long battery life of up to 40 hours with GPS active makes it an ideal choice for long training sessions and races.
• The Polar Precision Prime HR redefines the gold standard in optical heart rate accuracy by combining the latest in bio-impedance electrodes and optical sensors.
• The Running Power feature helps fine-tune your effort and accelerate the effectiveness and precision of your training.

Cons

• The watch is relatively expensive compared to other heart rate monitors on the market.
• The watch may be too complex for beginners to use.
• The orange color may not be everyone’s preference.

The Polar Vantage V is an excellent choice for serious athletes who want to take their training to the next level. With features like ultra-long battery life, Polar Precision Prime HR, and Running Power, this watch can help you fine-tune your training and discover the winner within yourself. However, the watch is relatively expensive compared to other heart rate monitors on the market, and its complexity may be overwhelming for beginners. Additionally, the orange color may not be everyone’s preference. If you’re a serious athlete looking for a high-quality heart rate monitor, the Polar Vantage V is definitely worth considering.

COOSPO Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap H808S

If you’re looking for an accurate and reliable heart rate monitor for your triathlon training, the COOSPO Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap H808S is a great option.

Pros

• This heart rate monitor is highly accurate, with a ±1BPM accuracy that ensures you get the most precise readings possible.
• With both Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT+ 2 transmission methods, this heart rate monitor is compatible with a wide range of devices, including sports watches, GPS bike computers, and fitness apps.
• The LED light and beep reminders make it easy to know when the heart rate monitor is connected and working properly.

Cons

• The chest strap may not be as comfortable for some users, especially during long workouts.
• The heart rate monitor may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
• Some users may have difficulty connecting the heart rate monitor to their devices, especially if they are not familiar with Bluetooth or ANT+ technology.

The COOSPO Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap H808S is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and accurate heart rate monitor for their triathlon training. With its dual-mode connection and compatibility with a wide range of devices and apps, it offers a lot of flexibility and convenience. However, some users may find the chest strap uncomfortable or have difficulty connecting the heart rate monitor to their devices. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality heart rate monitor that won’t break the bank, the COOSPO Bluetooth Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap H808S is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When choosing a heart rate monitor for triathlon training, there are several features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your selection:

Heart Rate Accuracy

The accuracy of your heart rate monitor is crucial for tracking your performance and ensuring you are training at the right intensity. Look for a monitor with high accuracy, and consider a chest strap monitor for the most precise readings.

Comfort and Fit

Your heart rate monitor should be comfortable to wear and fit securely during all three triathlon disciplines. Consider the size and weight of the monitor, as well as the material of the strap or band.

Water Resistance

Since triathlons involve swimming, your heart rate monitor should be water-resistant and able to withstand exposure to water. Look for a monitor that is specifically designed for use in the water.

Battery Life

Long battery life is essential for triathlon training, especially for longer events. Consider a monitor with a battery life of at least eight hours, or one that can be recharged quickly.

Additional Features

Some heart rate monitors come with additional features, such as GPS tracking, Bluetooth connectivity, and personalized training plans. Consider which features are most important to you and your training goals.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best heart rate monitor to help you achieve your triathlon goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for in a heart rate monitor for triathlon training?

When choosing a heart rate monitor for triathlon training, there are a few features you should consider. Look for a monitor that is waterproof and can withstand the rigors of swimming, biking, and running. It should also have a long battery life and be able to track your heart rate accurately during all three disciplines. Other features to consider include compatibility with your other training devices, such as a GPS watch or bike computer, and the ability to connect with fitness apps for data analysis.

How do chest strap heart rate monitors compare to wrist-based ones for triathletes?

Chest strap heart rate monitors are generally considered more accurate than wrist-based ones. They measure your heart rate directly from your chest, whereas wrist-based monitors use optical sensors that can be affected by movement and sweat. However, wrist-based monitors are more convenient and comfortable to wear, especially during long training sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and the level of accuracy you require.

Can you recommend a durable heart rate monitor for multisport athletes?

The Garmin Forerunner 945 and the Polar Vantage V2 are both excellent options for multisport athletes. They are both durable, waterproof, and have long battery lives. They also offer advanced features such as GPS tracking, training load analysis, and recovery metrics. Other durable options to consider include the Suunto 9 Baro and the Coros Apex Pro.

What are the best heart rate monitors for use with Zwift?

For Zwift, a heart rate monitor that can connect to your device via Bluetooth or ANT+ is essential. The Wahoo TICKR and the Garmin HRM-Dual are both popular options that offer accurate heart rate tracking and easy connectivity. The Polar H10 is another great choice, with its built-in memory allowing you to record heart rate data even if you’re not connected to your device.

Which heart rate monitors are preferred by professional triathletes?

Professional triathletes often choose heart rate monitors from Garmin or Polar. The Garmin Forerunner 945 and the Polar Vantage V2 are both popular among elite athletes for their advanced features and accuracy. Other options to consider include the Suunto 9 Baro and the Coros Apex Pro.

What is the most reliable and accurate heart rate monitor for runners?

The Polar H10 and the Garmin HRM-Run are both highly reliable and accurate heart rate monitors for runners. They both offer advanced metrics such as running dynamics and VO2 max estimation. The Wahoo TICKR is another great option, with its dual-band technology providing accurate heart rate tracking even in crowded areas.