The Gear Junkie: Polar RS800G3

By Stephen Regenold, Special to the Star Tribune

Last update: December 4, 2007 - 6:03 PM

The stratospherically priced RS800G3, a $499.95 sports-watch system, was made for a growing demographic of obsessive exercisers and fitness-gadget freaks with disposable cash.

But the Polar RS800 (www.polarusa.com) is no common digital face. And the package of fitness tools that comes with the watch comprises an astonishing system that can measure total miles traveled on an outing via GPS signals; provide a runner's real-time speed in a mile-per-hour readout; and create heart-rate profiles so complex you might hire a cardiologist.

And that's really just the start. The package includes the watch, a heart-rate strap, a GPS unit and software to analyze and display workout results.

The system's GPS capability makes it unique. Just strap the sensor unit on your arm and the 80-gram pod will find a satellite signal to begin beaming distance, direction and altitude information via infrared blips to the watch for calculation and display.

It performed admirably during my test, syncing to satellites with little issue and providing a solid signal. On a run, I could glance at the watch and see how far I'd gone or how fast I was moving in miles per hour.

Overall, the pricey system was impressive. There were hiccups getting going, and a high learning curve. But for the right person -- with the right kind of bank account -- this watch system could be a dream.

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