Factors to Consider Before Buying Wearables
- Standalone Connectivity – Stand-alone connectivity gives users the ability to send messages and make calls without your mobile device nearby. You’ll have the choice to leave your phone behind while you exercise or run errands while still being able to respond to calls and messages.
- Built-in GPS – Similar to stand-alone connectivity, built-in GPS gives you the ability to monitor and share your location while driving or walking. Built-in GPS helps you find your way on a map, review your running route, or let a loved one know where you are.
- Battery Life – If you find it frustrating when a device you rely on crashes because of short battery life and constantly needs recharging, factor battery-life into your wearable specifications. Battery life is improving and many now include features such as Low-Power Saving mode to preserve the battery life by disabling high-power features.
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Our take
With the always-on retina display, emergency SOS capability and ECG heart monitoring are sleek, safe and sporty. The Series 5 GPS screen is 30 percent larger than Series 3, and its 18-hour battery life for your on-the-go lifestyle.
Stand-out features include
- Water-resistant up to 50 meters
- The convenience of your phone without your phone
- Over 100 watch faces
Our take
TRAQ by Alegria® was made for walking and health monitoring. Designed with Q-Chip™ Technology, a pedometer is embedded in the shoe and syncs with your smartphone for an accurate step count. The shoe’s chip lasts up to three years based on an average 8-hour walk day.
Stand-out features include
- Removable footbed
- 23 different prints, styles and colors available
- Access to activity dashboard in Smartphone app
Our take
Samsung Gear S3 Frontier Smartwatch (Bluetooth) is built to go days without needing a charge. This watch offers customization with 15 preload designs and the option to design your own watch face. With the turn of a bezel, the always-on, gear-based display transforms into a smartwatch with access to your favorite apps and messaging.
Stand-out features include
- Built-in GPS to track activities and share location
- Instantly check texts, notifications and apps with a quick bezel rotation
- Charges wirelessly
4. Ripple Safety Alert
Our take
Ripple Safety is a 2-in-1 personal security and medical alert device. The dime-sized button calls friends and has the ability to alert emergency response teams. Your personal data is sent to your profile, identifies you and only tracks your location when activated.
Stand-out features include
- Built-in GPS tracks activities and shares location
- 24/7 personal safety monitoring
- 6-month battery life
5. Polar Vantage Advanced MultiSport Watch
Our take
Polar Vantage Advanced Multisport is for athletes in training. It has a long-lasting battery life and award-winning durability. It’s perfect for marathon and triathlon training. Its accurate data and running power measurements maximize performance. It has the ability to track the performance of more than 130 sports.
Stand-out features include
- More than 130 sport profiles
- Battery life up to 40 hours
- Built-in activity tracking and heart monitoring
6. Under Armor HOVR Infinite
Our take
This shoe is the winner of the 2019 Runner’s World “Recommended” Award. The Under Armor HOVR Infinite running shoes provide the perfect mix of flexibility, cushioning and versatility. With UA’s Record Sensor™, you’ll know every data point of your run along with how you can improve the second you finish.
Stand-out features include
- Tracks and analyzes running metrics
- Zero-gravity feel offers lower impact strides
- Gender-specific fit considers support for anatomical differences
7. Garmin HR Hybrid Smartwatch
Our take
The Garmin HR Hybrid Smartwatch has a traditional watch style with a hidden touchscreen display. It includes wellness tools including all-day stress tracking, advanced sleep technology and 24/7 heart rate monitoring. Garmin’s Bluetooth hybrid watch puts your health and day-to-day activities together with this stylish wearable.
Stand-out features include
- Sleek appearance with a leather band
- Wellness monitoring features including all-day stress tracking
- 5-day battery life
8. Fossil Gen 5 Smart Watch
Our take
The Fossil Gen 5 Smart Watch is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. It has a rapid charging battery, from 0 to 80 percent in just an hour. Fossil’s Gen 5 Smart Watch has all of today’s popular smart features including heart monitoring, notifications and GPS monitoring. It also includes a Google Assistant, LED flashlight and Google Pay.
Stand-out features include
- Health monitoring including calories burned, heart monitoring and steps
- Built-in Google Assistant
- Swimproof wearable design
9. Motiv Ring
Our take
The Motiv Ring is the smallest fitness tracker on the market. It tracks your physical activity, sleep and heart rate. Motiv sends you a sizing before shipping the ring has the perfect fit and comfort. Motiv comes in three finishes and automatically syncs your data with the Motiv app – available both iOS and Android.
Stand-out features include
- Waterproof design for up to 165-feet
- 3-day battery life and quick charging
- 2-step authentication and biometric data to security verify your identity
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Adult Wearable FAQs
What type of warranty should I expect from my wearable?
Warranties will vary based on the wearable and manufacturer. However, some retailers, such as Target, Amazon and Best Buy offer extended warranties with electronics they sell for an extra fee. These warranties come at an additional cost and most last up to three years are usually fairly thorough. Remember to always read the fine print before purchasing a warranty for your wearable.
How do I keep my battery life high on my wearable?
The easiest way to keep your battery life high without charging your device is to change your settings so that all unnecessary features aren’t running the battery, much like a smartphone. You can also adjust your brightness and use low-power functions of available.
Are there any wearables I can test before buying?
Most wearables will not allow you to try the product without buying. Some have 30-day money-back guarantees, but you’d be expected to purchase the product upfront. The guarantees also may depend on functionality and system issues. Always check the merchants return policy before buying.
Wrap-up: What to know before you buy a wearable
Wearables continue to bring new, exciting features to the market. Fitness wearables can monitor your heart and use sensors to track your activity. Medical wearables are even exploring ways for pregnant mothers to view information about third-trimester babies without going to the doctor. If you aren’t sure which wearable you want, think about the features and factors for each. Remember to consider warranties, guarantees and reviews to help you make the right choice.
