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TFS Review: Garmin Forerunner 305 Personal GPS

Posted June 10th, 2006 at 5:00 AM by Adam Berger

Section: Running & Training, Gear & Apparel, Gadgets & Acces., Product Reviews, Special Features, TFS Reviews

The Garmin Forerunner 305 is an outstanding training and racing tool for any running enthusiast. With GPS tracking, a “training assistant” and a heart rate monitor - this is a first rate item (if you can afford it). Check out the below review by Adam Berger, our tech expert and the Managing Editor of Gadgetell:

Product: Garmin Forerunner 305
Price: $349.99
Rating: Very Good 8.0/10.0
Pros: GPS tracking, heart rate monitor, reasonably lightweight, large display.
Cons: Battery life, size, spotty coverage at times and expensive for most amateur athletes
Overall:The 305 model is much improved over past designs. While the unit may not be necessary for the beginner athletes, marathon and other hard core runners will appreciate it’s advanced features.

Garmin Forerunner 305 When taking the unit out of the box and upon completion of charging it - I acquired a signal very quickly. There was no configuration required and I started my first run by strapping on the heart rate monitor (I read a tip that said to put water on the monitor before putting it on), putting the monitor on my watch and I was off. Once strapping the unit to my wrist I was immediate able to hit the pavement without any setup required. It is obvioulsy dangerous to stare at my wrist the entire time while running but the unit seemed to keep a signal and gives me the data I needed primarily pace and heart rate.