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

The Polar H10 is a highly accurate heart rate monitor chest strap, well-suited for anyone needing precise heart rate data, including those using Concept 2 PM5 rowing machines. Its standout feature is excellent accuracy, often regarded as one of the best in the Polar lineup, ensuring reliable heart rate readings during workouts. The strap is designed for comfort, using improved electrodes and silicone dots that help prevent slipping and skin irritation, which is important for longer exercise sessions.

Compatibility is another strong point: it works with virtually all devices that support heart rate monitors, including desktops, laptops, smartphones, and fitness equipment, using Bluetooth, ANT+, or 5 kHz signals. This flexibility means you can connect to multiple devices at the same time. Battery life is decent, powered by a replaceable CR2025 button cell, which is included, though you’ll need to be careful to use the correct battery type to avoid damage. The H10 is fully waterproof, so it’s fine for swimming and sweaty workouts alike. It also stores some heart rate data internally, which is handy if you want to exercise without carrying a phone or watch.

Some users might find the chest strap a bit tight or fiddly to adjust, especially if you have a smaller or larger chest outside the M-XXL size range. The sensor has no display, so you’ll rely on a connected device to see your heart rate in real time. For those looking for a reliable, comfortable, and versatile heart rate monitor chest strap for fitness and rowing, the Polar H10 delivers a strong feature set with a good balance of accuracy, comfort, and connectivity.

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 Garmin HRM-Pro Plus is a premium chest strap designed for accurate heart rate monitoring and advanced running metrics. It uses both ANT+ and Bluetooth technology, making it highly compatible with a wide range of devices, including the Concept 2 PM5 rowing monitor, Garmin watches, and popular fitness apps. This strap stands out by capturing detailed running dynamics like stride length and ground contact time, which can help improve your workout efficiency.

Comfort-wise, it’s lightweight and made with soft materials, so it sits well during long sessions without causing irritation. The battery is replaceable, offering good longevity to avoid frequent charges, which is convenient for regular users. Another plus is its water resistance, allowing you to wear it while swimming or sweating heavily without worry. It also stores heart rate data during activities where your device might be out of range and syncs automatically afterward, ensuring no loss of information.

Some users may find the optical sensor less comfortable compared to electrical sensors found in other chest straps, and its premium features come at a higher price point. Excelling in accuracy and data transfer, the HRM-Pro Plus is best suited for serious athletes or fitness enthusiasts who want detailed performance insights and seamless connectivity, especially when paired with Garmin devices or the Concept 2 PM5.