10 Best Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap For Concept 2 Pm 5 2025 in the United States

The Polar H10 heart rate monitor chest strap is a strong choice for anyone needing accurate and reliable heart rate data, especially if you use Concept 2 PM5 or other fitness equipment. One of its biggest strengths is accuracy—this model is known as one of Polar's most precise sensors, giving you confidence that your heart rate readings are trustworthy. It offers great compatibility by connecting via Bluetooth, ANT+, and 5 kHz signals, which means it can work with a wide range of devices including smartphones, tablets, and desktops. You can even connect to two Bluetooth devices at once, which is handy if you want to track your data on multiple platforms simultaneously.

Comfort-wise, the strap is designed with improved electrodes and silicone dots to reduce slipping and irritation during workouts. The materials used strike a good balance between stretch and durability, and the strap fits sizes from M to XXL. With up to 120 hours of battery life using its included CR2025 battery, it lasts through long training periods without frequent replacements. It’s also fully waterproof, making it suitable for swimming and sweating through intense sessions. Another practical feature is the internal memory, allowing you to record heart rate data even when your device is not nearby, then sync it later.

Some users may find the chest strap a bit tight or uncomfortable over extended wear, and while the battery life is solid, it requires a specific button cell battery, so replacing it with the wrong type could cause problems. Additionally, it lacks a built-in screen, so you’ll need a connected device to view real-time data. For those seeking a highly accurate, versatile, and durable chest strap that works well with various fitness gear, including Concept 2 PM5, the Polar H10 presents a dependable option.

The Garmin HRM 600 is a heart rate monitor chest strap designed for accurate real-time tracking of your heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV), making it a solid choice for runners, cyclists, and fitness enthusiasts using Garmin devices. It connects easily via Bluetooth to Garmin smartwatches, cycling computers, and supported fitness apps, ensuring wide compatibility within the Garmin ecosystem. The strap comes in two sizes (XS–S and M–XL) and is machine-washable, which adds to its comfort and convenience during regular use.

One standout feature is its ability to record workout data independently when you can’t wear a watch, like during team sports, and then sync all relevant stats—heart rate, calories, speed, and distance—to the Garmin Connect app. It also tracks daily activity metrics such as steps and calories burned, giving you a fuller picture of your fitness. For runners, it offers advanced running dynamics like stride length and ground contact time balance, which can help improve form if paired with a compatible smartwatch.

Battery life is impressive, lasting up to two months on a single charge, and it’s rechargeable via USB, which is convenient and eco-friendly. The device is water-resistant and even captures heart rate data during swims, syncing results after your workout. However, this strap does not have GPS built-in, so it relies on a connected device for location data. It is also relatively small and light, which is great for comfort but might feel fragile to some users. The Garmin HRM 600 is a reliable, comfortable chest strap best suited for Garmin device users who want detailed heart rate and running data, solid battery life, and the flexibility to track workouts without a watch. If you use other brands or need GPS on the strap itself, this might not be the ideal choice.

The Polar H9 Heart Rate Sensor is a solid choice for those wanting a reliable chest strap monitor, including users of the Concept 2 PM5 rowing machine. It scores well on compatibility, working seamlessly with all heart rate monitor compatible devices, including smartphones and popular fitness apps, which makes it versatile beyond just rowing. Its accuracy is backed by Polar's long-standing research reputation, offering precise heart rate tracking trusted by many users and researchers alike.

Comfort-wise, the chest strap is made from soft polyester and comes in multiple sizes (M-XXL here) to ensure a snug but comfortable fit during workouts. Battery life is impressive, with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can last up to 400 hours, meaning less hassle with frequent replacements. The unit is also waterproof, which is essential for sweaty sessions or outdoor use. Data transfer is smooth via both ANT+ and Bluetooth, allowing easy syncing with a wide range of devices.

Some users might find the fit less ideal if they fall outside the specified size range. The monitor itself lacks a screen to display data directly on the device, relying instead on connected devices for real-time feedback. Data storage is dependent on the connected app or device, as the sensor does not store session data internally. Considering its price point and feature set, the Polar H9 provides excellent value for everyday fitness users and athletes looking for accurate and easy-to-use heart rate monitoring during rowing or cross-training.