Use hDrop with Garmin

Learn how to connect your hDrop to a Garmin Datafield for real-time sweat hydration monitoring.

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hDrop Garmin Tutorial (GEN 2)

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Garmin Integration Key Information for Watches and Bike Computers

  • Real-Time Monitoring: The integration provides immediate feedback on hydration status, aiding in performance optimization and preventing issues like dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.
  • Data Field: The hDrop Connect IQ data field displays real-time metrics such as sweat loss, sodium loss, and the hDrop Score. Note the baseline data is only generated after three active workouts on the hDrop App.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Garmin watches supporting Connect IQ, including models like the Forerunner, Fenix, and Epix series. 
  • Functionality: Garmin users can view hydration data during activities without needing to carry a smartphone. 

Note: We provide a video guide that works for both Garmin Watches and Bike Computers: https://youtu.be/QRHFTv39GJE

Setup Instructions for Watches and Bike Computers

  1. Install the Data Field
  1. Configure the Data Field Settings
  • Open the Connect IQ app on your phone and navigate to your installed data fields.
  • Find hDrop Scores, tap it, and select Settings.
  • In Settings, you can:
    • Enter your baseline value (Visit hDrop App > My Activities > ‘View’ > Scroll Down to ‘Baseline,’ right above the Sweat Zones). If you are a new hDrop customer, you will need to complete three Activities with the hDrop device first. 
    • IMPORTANT: Leave the ‘Device Name’ field as it is unless you have more than 1 hDrop. If you have more than 1 hDrop, then input your device serial number (Visit hDrop App > Top left menu > My Device. The serial number is in the format of ‘HDROP-XXXXXXXX’).                             
    • Important note: If you experience any connection issues on your Garmin device, leave this field as ‘HDROP-’.
 
  • Choose which metrics to display: Sweat Loss, Sodium Loss, hDrop Score
  • Select your preferred units: metric or imperial
  • Tap Save when done.
  1. Sync with Your Garmin Watch
  • Sync your Garmin device through the Connect IQ app to apply the updated settings.
  1. Add hDrop to Your Workout Data Screen
  • On your Garmin watch:
    • Open the workout activity (e.g., Run, Bike)
    • Go to Activity Settings > Data Screens
    • Choose a screen and tap to edit a data field
    • Select Connect IQ > hDrop Scores and assign it to the field
  1. Start Your Workout
  • Open the hDrop App on your phone
  • Tap Start Activity, go to the Settings icon (top right), and select “Connect with Garmin”. This disconnects the hDrop sensor from the phone and connects it to your Garmin
  • Keep your hDrop and Garmin device on during the workout, but you can leave the phone behind. 
  1. Finish and Sync Your Workout
  • When you’re done, end the activity on your Garmin first
  • Reconnect to the hDrop App to sync and submit the session for full hydration insights

The following video will walk you through the connection between hDrop and Garmin devices.

hDrop Garmin Tutorial (Gen 1)

The following video will walk you through the connection between hDrop and Garmin devices.

Interpreting your results

LEARN ABOUT HDROP METRICS

FAQs

Not having good contact with your skin at all times can make the sensor give bad readings. Make sure the hDrop does not have contact with water or other fluid but sweat. 

It can happen. If this happens, add a little bit of water to the tip of your finger (just a tiny drop!), and you will get a reading. You should not do this often, but it will solve it short term. Also, consider warming your hands a little bit, sometimes really cold hands are hard to read for the sensor.

You can use alcohol prep pads. It is recommended to clean the sensor often. Gently clean the blue/black sensor using an alcohol prep pad, then let it dry for a few seconds. To clean the straps, a manual wash with water and soap will be the best. Then them dry on their own.

The device and the algorithms developed by the hDrop Team are designed to be worn on specific locations. For the quick finger test, it requires to use your thumb. The algorithm that determines your sweat rate depends on a local to whole body ratio, which is unique to your upper arm, chest, or thumb depening on the type of activity you are doing. If you put the device anywhere but right location (upper arm for light or intense activities, and thumb for quick finger readings),  your results will not be valid. Even if you get readings from the device, your test results will not be correct or scientifically valid.

  • For Gen 2 devices: The first thing we recommend doing is turning your phone’s bluetooth off and on. This usually resolves all connection issues. If that does not solve it, make sure that the device has enough battery, try charging it for at least 15 minutes.  If you are still having problems, reach us out at [email protected] and we will have someone from our team to help you troubleshoot!
  • For Gen 1  devices: The first thing we recommend doing is taking the battery of the device, waiting 5 seconds, and plugging it back in. This does a reset on the device and usually works all the times. If that does not solve it, try with a new battery. It is possible that your battery is dead. If you are still having problems, reach us out at [email protected] and we will have someone from our team to help you troubleshoot!

NO! hDrop is not a medical device. hDrop is a fitness tracker and you should not use your hDrop to make or take any medical decisions that could affect your health and wellness. Please consult with your physician.