Polar Verity Sense heart rate sensor review

The Verity Sense is Polar’s latest armband heart rate monitor after its OH1 and OH1+ sensors.

We can’t compare as we hadn’t tested the originals, but it seems major upgrades come in the form of an improved strap and extended Bluetooth.

The former’s certainly comfortable, featuring a cradle that the optical sensor sits in. The six LED set-up is similar to that seen on many of Polar’s watches but having it further up the arm reduces the motion emanating from the wrist.

It certainly clamps in place securely, and the data seemed accurate on runs, though not up there with the gold standard of chest straps.

When it comes to the extended Bluetooth, its appeal to team sports folk is highlighted, both professional and recreational.

Coaches can monitor the players from the sidelines; part-timers won’t now whack the opposition with a watch.

I play five-a-side and can see its benefits, though a problem that extends to triathlon is that it’s a) rather fiddly beneath a long-sleeve base layer and b) to activate the session, you must press the button before slipping over the sleeve. In short, it’s more useful for short-sleeve efforts.

Its primary triathlon appeal is in the swim. A neat goggle clip attaches it to your temple for heart-rate, pace and distance data.

It’s pretty accurate, though for pool only (apart from heart rate), as measurement derives from accelerometers recognising you turning. All of this data can be sent over to the Polar Flow app for analysis.

Verdict: Training benefits especially in the swim, but rather fiddly.

Score: 77%

Also consider… Wahoo Tickr Fit Heart Rate Monitor Armband

Connect to your smartphone, GPS watch or bike computer with the Wahoo Tickr to see your heart rate and calorie burn measurements in real time on compatible apps, including the likes of Wahoo, Strava, TrainerRoad, and Nike+.

This barely-there 45g armband monitor can be attached around the forearm or triceps for runs, rides or gym workouts. It also comes with two adjustable band sizes.

Designed to last weeks without being charged, the rechargeable battery life is said to last a huge 30 hours.

It’s not made for swimming like the Polar, but is waterproof up to five feet, with an IPX7 rating.

The Tickr fit can also be purchased in a bundle with speed and cadence sensor to really get a grasp on your training metrics.