I think I'm high

By Chris Colney Ranked #197 - Running Watches November 13, 2009

Okay, I got this altimeter because the price was right and for my job in Colorado, it was going to do me just fine. The timekeeping works well. Of course, it's kind of hard to screw that up but a lot of other things on this watch need work. My first weekend with the watch, I did 'the decalibron' near Alma, CO. This required me hitting +14K 5 times. According to this watch, which I calibrated at the trailhead, and then again on top of Mt. Democrat, the highest point I encountered was 14, 148 (altitude of Democrat). I was higher than that in the saddle of Mt. Lincoln.
After I came back down, the barometric pressure remained at the level I had started at, but at the trailhead standing at the same spot next to the sign, I was a full 250ft lower than I had been 6 hours previously. My elevation also changed from when I went to sleep at 11,500 and when I woke up 10,900. I don't know if I took a sleep hike, but I'm pretty sure it was the watch's mistake.
The thermometer works pretty well so long as it's not on your wrist. Sitting on your wrist, expect to be 10-15 degrees (F) warmer and it takes a while for the temp. to be updated.

Overall: If you're looking for a cheap approximation of an altimeter, this is the piece for you. If you want some form of accuracy, keep on lookin.

View Details: Highgear Alterra Altimeter Watch

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No