When I first received my Mudbandz I was very excited to try the product. It is basically a neoprene arm band that is designed to wrap around and cover Fitbit devices to protect them from mud and water during races. Originally, and this is my own fault for not really reading the description, I wanted to use it to cover my Suunto GPS watch in the desert at World’s Toughest Mudder. This did not work as Mudbandz are currently designed to only fit Fitbit devices.
Mudbandz Features
100% device coverage including strap – If you properly wrap the Mudbandz on your Fitbit it will be completely covered. It’s basically a Fitbit burrito that has a complete impact, mud, and moisture barrier.
Spongy 1.5mm “scuba grade” neoprene – Mudbanz are 100% waterproof and mud-proof. This will stop mud from getting in the cracks and crevices of your device. This will basically eliminate the need to clean your device post race. Additionally, the band is four-way stretch and lined with a nylon blend with spandex edging. This makes for a comfortable wear. It is also easy to put on and take off.
Washable – Whether you rinse it off in the sink or throw it in the wash, it is quite small and easy to clean.
Mudbandz Usage
I busted out my trusty old Fitbit (which was retired for having one of the buttons fall off) and hit the trails of Burke Lake Park so I could submerge it in water while being athletic. I wrapped the Mudbandz around the device, folded it over twice and stuck it in the water for about 45 seconds. The device only had a few small spots of moisture present and had I stuck it in a puddle of mud nothing would have made it inside. That being said, while the material is 100% waterproof water can get inside since the edges are not sealed. You should always refer to your devices waterproof rating before you submerge it for longer than a few seconds.
After dunking my arm in the water I proceeded to run the 4.5 mile loop around Burke Lake. I did not experience any discomfort or reaction to running with the neoprene on my wrist with a watch fastened inside of it. The only downside is since the device is fully covered I couldn’t easily check the Fitbit for any information.
Mudbandz Pros and Cons
Pros
- Protects Fitbit devices from Mud and quick water submersions
- Comfortable
- Easy to clean
- Inexpensive ($8)
Cons
- Can only be worn with Fitbit devices
- Covering your device makes it inconvenient to check your progress while wearing it
- Can’t monitor heart rate
Mudbandz Conclusion
If you currently run with a Fitbit and are concerned with protecting it during a Tough Mudder, Spartan Race, Savage Race or other mud runs then for $8 you really can’t go wrong. The only real downsides to this product are that it only works with Fitbits and can be a hassle to open and close of you want to check your device during an event. I have been advised that they are in the process of designing Mudbandz for other watch models as well as releasing more colors. If they ever come out with one that is sized to work with a Suunto Ambit3 I would definitely grab a Mudbandz.
Keith Allen
Latest posts by Keith Allen (see all)
- Spartan Race does Long Island- 19th Century Style - December 10, 2018
- Rugged Maniac Long Island 2018 - July 31, 2018
- Altra King MT 1.5 Shoe Review - May 24, 2018
Be the first to leave a review.
