- Back to Home »
- The Latest Trends in Wearable Fitness Trackers
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Every year we see a gadget really gain in popularity, and eventually that popularity wanes, but for the third year in a row, fitness trackers are continuing to top the charts in wanted gifts. This year's update to the trend? Not looking like fitness trackers. People want more stylish options or discreet methods of monitoring their fitness goals, sleep patterns, and more. The other big trend? Involving the kiddos! Below we've compiled a list of the latest in fitness tracking technology to help you check off everyone's lists this year.
1. Leaf by Bellabeat - this wear-any-way-you-want tracker looks more like jewelry and comes in a lot of options and feels more natural than the other, more tech-y looks of trackers.
2. Activité Steel by Withings - this latest release in watches by Withings that look like a traditional upscale watch, uses a sleek and stylish analog tracker, but connects to your phone. Bonus: doesn't require any charging. Perfect for the suit and tie wearing health conscious crowd.
3. Polar Loop Crystal by Polar - not branching too far from their original Loop, this sporty wearable is now decked out with bling from Swarovski! A nice upgrade to the look with all of the same features as before, plus new smart notifications that let you know by vibration of calendar reminders, incoming messages or calls.
4. Misfit Shine by Misfit - Simple, affordable and customizable, this wear-any-way-you-want tracker can take on a sporty look or be popped into a necklace for a night on the town. One unit with a lot of options. You also never have to charge it. Sleek and versatile, you can even tuck this coin-sized device in your socks.
5. iFit Duo by iFit - this one isn't even out yet, but it's a doozy. The Duo looks like a traditional watch, but switches to a fitness tracker with a quick flip. A few styles to fit each person (man, woman, unisex), this is clearly geared towards those who care about style.
6. Sona Connected Bracelet by Caeden - now available for pre-order, an up and coming technology company that's making waves, Caeden, has developed a fitness wearable that looks like a leather bracelet, which is very "in" for 2016. Don't worry though, not just looks, the developers used to work with Jawbone and also have a line of wireless headphones so you'll still be connected and tracking your progress to your phone. What makes this one different? Guidance through meditation. Sona is targeting those who wish to improve both mind and body in a stylish way, and also have iPhones. That's right, they only have an app for the iOS platform.
7. Up4 by Jawbone - looks like a bracelet, but is a fitness tracker or payment method! That's right, the latest in Jawbone technology now allows Amex users to pay for their water or protein bars without ever reaching into a purse or pocket!
8. LeapBand by LeapFrog - this toy with purpose makes fitness fun for kids ages 4-7. Think: Tamagatchi Pets powered by movement. With challenges and games, the younger crowd doesn't have to feel like they're giving up screen time while staying active. And with LeapFrog's parent account, you can monitor their learning (and fitness) progress. We recommend reading the reviews on their site for more information (some kids didn't find it fun, while others can't live without it) and asking your child for input first.
9. Nabi Compete by Nabi - This wearable for kids ages 6 and up literally hit the shelves this week! It is designed to be purchased in pairs and used to compete against friends and family! I can't seem to find a place to purchase these online, but I can tell you they already fascinate us. The app allows wearers to compete against each other or work together to reach goals - you can walk the Brooklyn Bridge from anywhere in the world, earn points, and eventually buy and care for virtual pets. Changeable bands and face plates allow for every personality.
10. Fusion and Fusion Bio by Striiv - Bringing together the flexibility and affordability of a fitness tracker with the capabilities of a smart watch, Striiv seems to have found their stride. They were slammed for their kid-style pedometer (the Striiv Play), so they stepped it up and created a next-level wearable. With options that are great for kids as a clip or parents as a smart watch, they have found the happy medium, even if the look is still a bit 2015.
11. SmartCap Fitness Monitor by Spree - hold onto your hats with this one, folks! Shattering the clip and wrist-wearing trends is the new tracker from Spree that you wear on your head. It's a baseball cap (or headband) that tracks your heart rate, movement, calories burned, and even your temperature! We're not kidding: it has GPS tracking for mapping your route, monitoring your speed, and you can even pump in your favorite tunes via bluetooth. Syncs with an app you can download on nearly any device, this is probably the most innovative tracker we've seen yet!
12. Sleek Tracker Tie Clip for Fitbit Flex by Griffin Technology - okay, it's not actually a tracker, but rather a way to wear your tracker without anyone knowing AND sport a sleek tie clip. If you (or that special man in your life) already have a FitBit Flex, here's your next move.
13. Fenix3 Sapphire by Garmin - This is the tracker for the serious fitness enthusiast that does shark diving by day and whiskey tasting by night. It makes me want to climb mountains, write daring articles, and show up to the hottest events. Gorgeous design, water resistant for swimmers, beautiful screen display. The site urges you to "find your both" - there is no doubt you will with this uncompromising timepiece.