Garmin Foot Pod Review

This piece of equipment, more than any other in our test, is targeted to athletes. If you already use a Garmin training watch like the ones found in our GPS Watch review, and want indoor functionality and/or running cadence data, this is the tool for you. Otherwise, look elsewhere.

Performance Comparison

Interface and Data Management

The entire interface and data management for the Foot Pod is dependent on the Garmin GPS watch you use with it. Some are easier to use than others, but all display running cadence while on the go. And most will take the Foot Pod data to calculate distance and step count. We tested this device in conjunction with the Garmin Fenix. Garmin's “Training Center” is an effective and comprehensive computer-based tool for organizing running and training data.

Portability

This is the most secure and easily attached device in our entire test. The simple two-part plastic construction intertwines with the runner's shoe laces and remains there securely through vigorous running. In our testing, we had no issues with the Pod becoming unclipped. It's closest competitor in our test, the Nike+ Stand Alone is not nearly as versatile. The Nike is also a foot mounted distance tracker, but requires either dedicated Nike shoes, or an improvised lace pouch. Neither of these is as slick as the Garmin Foot Pod's attachment method.

Durability

Our testers had no problem with the durability of this product. The built-in battery, according to Garmin claims, will last years. Our testing did not last that long so we cannot verify this claim.

Accuracy

The Garmin Foot Pod, as compared to the other devices in our test, had the second poorest accuracy. Only the free and Best Buy winning, Pacer app was less accurate. Watching the step count derived from the Garmin while actually walking showed that one step out of every 30-50 was simply ignored by the devices. Incidentally, it only counts the footfalls of the shoe its mounted to. All the pedometers we tried other count every step. In order to compare, the user must double the number delivered by the Garmin set up.

Ease of Set-up

Set-up is as easy as the associated Garmin wristwatch allows. Most potential users will either have a Garmin they already use and know, or be willing and able to put in the time associated with learning the ins and outs of the linked devices. We tested the Foot Pod with the Garmin Fenix GPS watch. Setup there was quick and intuitive.

Best Application

This is a specialized tool, perhaps the most specialized in our test. Only dedicated runners looking for real-time step cadence data and indoor distance information on their favorite Garmin GPS watch need apply.

Value

For as simple as this tool is, it is fairly expensive. Especially if you add the price of a Garmin watch to the cost of this step counter. Again, dedicated training runners will justify the cost. Others will do better to look elsewhere for walking and running data collection.

Conclusion

This device is a specialized training aid for those that are looking for ever more detailed data on their foot travel.