Wearable technology: a buzz topic in the industry for a while. Smart fitness bands have gained popularity and smart watches are readily available but still seem to be reserved for those uber technology connected individuals. Considering myself to be “uber” technology connected could be debated, but I know I have a passion for innovative technology.

A week has passed since I set up my first smart watch. After a few days of sheer excitement, speculation and confirmation, here’s my product review broken into three topics: Functionality, Style and Health/Fitness.

Functionality:

While the operating system takes some getting used to, its logical simplicity allows you pick up the key navigation with ease. After a few days, the most apparent purpose for wearing a smart watch would be CONVENIENCE! I found myself checking my phone significantly less. It is nice to receive my notifications at a glance, allowing me to determine if my attention is needed before I start fumbling and reaching for my phone.

Style:

The fashionista in me follows one rule: If it’s going to be included in my daily dress up, it MUST look good and fit in with the rest of my style. There are many wearable technology devices that are visually pleasing, but I have yet to find one that I would include in my regular attire. I was pleased to find out that I didn’t have to sacrifice functionality for personal style – choosing the right display style and coordinating band was the equivalent of going into a shoe store and leaving hours later with one pair of shoes after trying on 25 pairs.

Health and Fitness:

The fitness and activity tracking features immediately make you aware of your body’s daily activity – from the most inactive person to the gym rat. It notifies you when you have been sitting too long, tracks your footsteps and compares them to your calories burned and even tracks your heart rate. It compares it to the basic national standards or your can challenge yourself to set your own workout goals.

After experiencing life with a smart watch all the buzz in the technology industry has been justified, but I can understand the hesitation for wearable devices in the mainstream market. I believe the roots have been planted for the smart watch market to grow and become as much a part of everyday life as the smart phone has now become.