GPS workout tracking for runs and bike rides are old hat, but swimming has been missing that metric.

Finis’ relatively new (released in February) Hydro Tracker GPS solves that by putting the tracker on the back of your head. Hooked into to your goggles’ strap, it gets a fairly clear line to the heavens, letting your see where and how your open water swim went. We’re thinking that analyzing your route and segment speed could help you see where your weak spots are (Do you swim straight? Do you fade half way through?) and correct for future events. And if you feel like throwing that data into Strava, it just creates one more way to compete amongst “friends.”

It’s out now for $130 and includes an arm band for carrying it with you onto the bike and run. Full PR after the break…

PRESS RELEASE: FINIS, the worldwide leader in technical swimming development and provider of select training equipment for the U.S. Olympic Swim Team, announces the FINIS Hydro Tracker GPS. The Hydro Tracker GPS is a tracking, mapping and performance reporting fitness accessory designed for open water swimmers. Hydro Tracker GPS, a multi-sport device captures the swimmer’s course and key performance data for an in-depth post-swim, statistical report. The free online FINIS Streamline Training Log allows swimmers to set goals and analyze stats including splits, speed, distance, accumulated time, and elevation. Swimmers can share their results with friends via CSV, KML Google Earth, Facebook and Twitter. The Hydro Tracker GPS is available now for $129.99 at www.FINISInc.com/hydrotracker and select retailers.

“We created the Hydro Tracker GPS to meet the needs of open water swimmers and fitness enthusiasts,” says John Mix, President of FINIS. “Our Hydro Tracker GPS and free Streamline Log allows swimmers to dig deeper into their key workout stats, providing them with invaluable ongoing feedback. This new GPS system will help maximize anyone’s results.”

The Hydro Tracker GPS easily and securely attaches to swim goggle straps on the back of the head or to the included neoprene armband and does not require GPS calibration. Full features and benefits include:

• Accurate GPS Tracking – Engineered to rest on the back of the head so swimmers receive a constant GPS signal
• Online Mapping – View your route on a Google Maps™ integrated satellite map complete with zoom function
• Performance Reporting – Set goals and analyze stats including splits, speed, distance, accumulated time and elevation
• Hydrodynamic Clips –Attaches the tracker securely to goggle straps for optimal signal detection
• Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery – Up to 16 hours of use
• Time-Lapse Animation -Watch the progress of your workout with a click of a button to see elevation variations
• 2 Button Operation – Simple and easy to use interface with LED indicators
• Neoprene Armband – Slip the tracker on your arm or bike for use in other outdoor activities
• Share Workouts – Export your data from the Streamline Log using CSV or Google Earth files, or share via Facebook and Twitter
• Multi-Sport Compatible – Can be used for swimming, running, walking, biking, skiing, hiking & more
• No Calibration Needed -Just put on the tracker and you’re ready to go
• Adjustable Sampling Rate – Configure how often you want to record GPS data so that you can control accuracy and battery life
• Waterproof – Built to withstand the roughest environments

For more information about the Hydro Tracker GPS and Streamline Log technology and the entire FINIS product line including gear used by the U.S. Olympic Swim team, visit www.FINISINC.com