It's easy to get lost in the woods. At least that's been our experience. Trail maps rarely stay up to date with changes, whether those changes were caused by Mother Nature or by man. Many trails are poorly marked, too. Besides, it's easy to get lost in the moment , lost in the panoramic views, or overcome with fear that that noise you're hearing really is a bear. It's easy to get lost on the road, too. As such, there's nothing like the security and peace of mind of a global positioning system. Our research has found these "Best Of" picks that will keep you from wondering just where you are. As for finding your bear spray or car keys, you're on your own.
Suunto traces it roots back to 1939 when Tuomas Vohlonen invented the liquid-filled compass that was essential to Finnish troops during World War II. We chose their X9i GPS as a 'Best Of" because it's so darn cool. Unlike the other two picks in this category, this one is wrist-mounted, yet it's not some big hunk of plastic that makes you feel you have a geeky piece of Star Wars gear on your arm. To the contrary. They bill this as the world's smallest and lightest wrist-mounted GPS system. (And, yes, ... FULL REVIEW
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LUXE IT OR LEAVE IT
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MSRP $500
Magellan is widely recognized as a leader in handheld GPS systems. Their eXplorist XL GPS makes it clear why. This “Best of” is the big screen of handheld GPS units. Its display is 3.5 inchesand backlit to provide vibrant color. Yet at 12 ounces, it's also quite portable. It's user-friendly, too, with intuitive navigation. (We find little more ironic or frustrating than getting lost within your GPS system!) The eXplorist XL offers one-button shortcuts to key features as well as joystick control... FULL REVIEW
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LUXE IT OR LEAVE IT
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MSRP $450
Garmin International is part of a company that makes navigation equipment for the aviation and marine markets, as well as the consumer market. In fact, their first GPS handhelds supported Coalition forces in the Gulf War. So we think it's fair to say they know something about getting around. Whether you’re in plane, a boat or in hiking boots. Garmin's GPSmap 60CSx is mighty product in a small package. Weighing only 7.5 ounces with two AA batteries (not included), this “Best of” still packs an im... FULL REVIEW
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LUXE IT OR LEAVE IT
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MSRP $500
