Never been that interested in this particular sort of technology personally but....
1) I'd like to get the best there is for the fast approaching crossing of the Torres Strait. 
.
2) Then keep it for general use once Im hooked (as Im sure I will be)
3) Also suss out the options for stocking it in the shop for others.
Really appreciate some feedback from those who know field to help choose whats worthy & what may not be.
All the stuff Ive seen on posts here would be of interest.
- obviously track logging - Im guessing they all do that but some may do it better?
- time & speed recording - as detailed as possible rather than just averages?
- anything new on the height of jumps would be awesome?
- compatibility with software for dragging out specific stats ?
etc etc.
All info appreciated including brands & sources.
Post or PM - all good
Taa in advance.
I've got a garmin gps hrm watch that I use from time to time for novelty.
The interesting things are instantaneous and average speed, distance traveled in a session a nd plotting on google maps to see the squiggles of we're youve been. Nice for novelty or if u do a lot of up or downwinders.
Not your equipment of choice for crossing the tazman
I just use a Garmin dakota (wouldnt really mater which model, just get one that can connect to a PC).
As most of these GPS are only water proof to 1m, I also put it in a waterproof pouch just incase a bad crash puts extra pressure on the seals and hang around my neck under wetty or rashy
For your crossing you will want long battery life and large storage
I would also recommend using it before you go and tray out the different settings of the track record, nothing worse than a last minute purchase and you aint got a glue how to use it and it didnt work! (just use in your car for a couple of days)
I am not into the speed so much, those guys use a gt31
As I come from 4wding I use a program called Oziexplorer to download off the gps.
I can upload waypoint, tracks and routes to and from the gps.
Save a track in google earth format to easily share with others.
Forget the height thing it will never work with a normal GPS to be accurate any better than +- 5 or 10m.
An alternative from the Garmin is the Timex Iron Man which is alot more cost effective if you have a budget, I think they are around $130 mark with the heart rate strap.
The guys I know don't have any problems with it.
Just an option
Rich
You can do all of this with Apps on iphones and android phones now. One App that does it is called Endomondo, it even has a kiteboarding setting! There is a free version too. So no need to buy a dedicated gadget!
Just make sure the phone is tucked away in a good waterproof zip-lock bag... or 2!
Might be good to have the phone for an emergency too.
We found the following two types most popular with our clients over the last few years -
Locosys BGT31 - www.locosystech.com/en/category/index.html
Velocitek Speedpuck - www.velocitek.com/
