Polar Wearlink strap ...

[Tazza007]

Hi guys

 

No rant nor rave, just a simple question or two?

 

How long does your Polar Wearlink strap last? I am at that point where it seems I have to replace mine (again) after +- 1 yr, perhaps a little more 1 yr 6 months maybe.

 

I always take good care of it, not bending the critical transmitting electrode sections unnecessarily, rinsing it in cold water after every use etc. etc.

 

Is this life span normal, or is there something more one can do to lengthen it?

 

Where is the best place (in WC) to buy a new one?

[steveO:K]

That sounds about right. If you pop them in the wash they last a little longer. I have been using polar products for about 10 yrs so i have had a number of these straps.

 

The price on polar products is regulated so everyone sells it for more or less the same price. I got mine from Due South just because they had in stock, but Sportsmans will have

[Tazza007]

Great thanks for the reply! Feel better about paying the R180.00 now again and would'nt swap my Polar for any other product

[Squier]

When I replaced mine I was told by the Polar agents that it's needs to go in the wash once a week and that the trasnmitter needs to be disconnected from the belt when not in use to maximise its lifetime.

[Lounge Lizard]

Before you rush out to spend your hard earned (or which ever why you got them) bucks -

I have found that if you place a 'contact enhancer' (not just water) on the pads, the strap works for much longer.

i.e. don't throw it away, place some electrode cream - or I just use normal aqueous cream on the contact strips - an voilà - it does pickup your heart rate again.

[Minion]

My Wearlink strap has lasted for close to six years now. For the first 3 years I was using it around 8-12 hours/week. Since I got my Garmin, I've used it around 4-6hrs/week. I've taken the transmitter part in for battery replacement and servicing every 2 years or so. The Polar agents gave this advice:

- Always disconnect the strap and wipe both contacts after training

- Never store the strap and transmitter connected - this corrodes the contacts.

- Stick the strap in the washing machine every couple of weeks (mild cycle, 40°C or so)

[akneethling]

My 1st strap lasted only 3 months but polar replaced it. Lets see what happens with the new 1. they recommend a wash every 5 uses, however, I followed the directions to the tee. I'm not sure I'll stick with Polar next time around. It's gonna take lots of convincing

[Hector]

I have had my strap for 4 years. I throw it over my neck after my ride when I have a shower. While washing my hair, I wash the strap with the same soap and then let it rinse while completing my shower. that way it is always clean and smell OK

[Tazza007]

Interesting ... thanks!

[VeloRacer]

Every year at the Argus Expo I had to trade in my old strap and buy a new one.

 

I solved the problem. I bought a Garmin. Hassle-free riding

[pauloc]

Also just rinse mine in the shower. Haven't had any problems with my strap in the 3 or so years I've used it.

[Sawdust]

Get the sealed unit. Cheaper and lasts longer. They work better as well. I went through 2 wearlink straps, cursing most of the time when it doesn't work, while my wife's el-cheapo worked for 3 years until the battery was flat. Got mine at CRC.

['Dale]

Mine is 'dead' after 2 years.

Had battery replaced.

 

Not a happy user, I am.

 

Training without a strap at this time.

Might bring betta results!

[Reg Lizard]

The only place I could get a strap the other day in Slaapstad was at Cycle Lab, think I paid R170 for it. My straps also last about a year and I have also been experiencing problems with the hr sensor. Bought a(sealed)battery at the chemist and still the unit would not pick up the signal if the sensor was further than 30cm away from the unit. Bought a new strap and still had the problem. Ended up sending everything to the agents and they just replaced the battery and it is now fine. So the only conclusion that I can make is that the battery I bought at the chemist was "below power", if that makes any sence. Anyone experience this as well.

[Sawdust]

As soon as the Polar straps work as well as the Garmin straps, I might consider another Polar. Until then, I'll stick to my Garmin.