Garmin Fortrex 401/301 released
Garmin announced a new wrist wearable GPS today, which I think looks remarkably like military tech seeping into the civilian sector. Considering that GPS technology itself was originally military, this doesn’t come as a great shock. And while there have been other wrist wearable GPS options available, the Foretrex line seems to be hitting that sweet spot of functionality and features. Garmin has brought some wrist based units to market before, but they have been aimed more at the jogging crowd and less at the high adventure types.
Currently, there are only two units in the Foretrex line, the 401 and 301. Both units are WAAS (used to improve the accuracy of the GPS system) enabled, and highly sensitive, intended to lock on and stay locked on in order to track your path as you move on your hike or trek or off road adventure. Both models are expected to be released in the 3rd quarter 2009, with the 301 retailing for $199, and the 401 for $249. For the price difference, I’d definitely recommend the 401, the compass and barometer could save your life. Here’s the press release with all the info:
