BEST Heart Rate: Suunto ECG Chest Strap! (Scientific Review)
In a Nutshell
The Suunto HRB2 ECG chest strap delivers near-perfect heart rate accuracy across cycling and running (R=0.99–1.00) and strong results for weightlifting (R=0.97) when tested against the Polar H10 reference. It supports Suunto-exclusive features like ZoneSense training intensity analysis and running posture metrics but only works with select newer Suunto watches; other brands receive basic Bluetooth HR data only. Priced at €99/$99, it’s a direct, reliable alternative to the Polar H10 for users invested in the Suunto ecosystem.
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Suunto launched the Smart Heart Rate Belt 2 alongside its new Run 2 watch. The device provides electrocardiogram measurements of heart rate and RR intervals. The name "Suunto Smart Heart Rate Belt 2" is abbreviated as "Suunto HRB2" for convenience in this review.
The Suunto HRB2 measures electrical activity of the heart and uses an algorithm to identify R peaks in the electrocardiogram signal. These peaks calculate heart rate and time intervals between beats. The device includes a six-axis motion sensor for measuring running posture, shielded electrodes for cleaner signal quality, an improved belt, and support for three simultaneous Bluetooth connections. The transmitter weighs 12.8 grams, detaches with a single press, and operates automatically once worn. A physical button allows pairing of new Bluetooth devices.
The device uses a replaceable CR2032 battery with 210 to 460 hours of battery life depending on enabled features and connected devices. It is water resistant to 30 meters depth and suitable for swimming, though Bluetooth performance is poor underwater and saltwater may interfere with measurements. The memory stores pulse data when the watch is away, functioning only with compatible Suunto watches.
The running posture features measure ground contact time, vertical oscillation, flight time, contact time to flight time ratio, and foot balance during contact. The belt supports Suunto's ZoneSense feature, which uses RR interval data to estimate training intensity and aerobic and anaerobic performance thresholds. These advanced features are not universally compatible with all devices.
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