Helio Strap: The Wrist Heart Rate Monitor for Cycling — 2026 Review

The Helio Strap is one of the most innovative devices to have entered the cycling world in recent years. Unlike traditional heart rate monitors — chest straps or wristwatches — the Helio Strap is worn on the ankle, taking advantage of the fact that blood vessels are closer to the surface in that area and arm movement does not interfere with the reading. Is it worth it? We tell you everything.

What Is the Helio Strap?

The Helio Strap is an optical ankle heart rate monitor specifically designed for sports in which a chest strap is uncomfortable or a wristwatch loses accuracy. In cycling, where arm movement is minimal and the riding position can compress the wrist, the ankle offers a very interesting alternative.

📌 Technical Specifications

Position: ankle (inner side)
Technology: high-frequency optical PPG sensor
Connectivity: dual ANT+ and Bluetooth 5.0
Compatibility: Garmin, Wahoo, Polar, Zwift, Strava, and any ANT+/BLE device
Battery: up to 30 hours of continuous use
Water resistance: IPX7 (submersible up to 1 meter)
Weight: ~25 g
Price: ~€100–130

✅ Advantages of the Helio Strap for Cyclists

🛼 More comfortable than a chest strap: it doesn’t constrict the chest, making it ideal for cyclists who find chest straps uncomfortable in a tucked position (TT, triathletes)
💪 More accurate than a wristwatch: the ankle has less movement and better superficial blood flow than the wrist while pedaling
⚡ Dual ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity: compatible with any cycling computer or app on the market
🔋 30-hour battery: enough for the longest rides or several days of bike touring
💧 Water-resistant: no problem with rain, sweat, or long rides
📱 No cables or annoying straps: minimalist design that doesn't interfere with pedaling

⚠️ Helio Strap Limitations

⚠️ Optical sensor vs. electrode: although it is better than the wrist, an electrode chest strap is still more accurate during high-intensity efforts and sudden changes in pace
⚠️ Unusual position: some cyclists take time to get used to wearing it on the ankle
⚠️ Price: more expensive than a basic chest strap (Wahoo TICKR: ~€50 vs. Helio Strap: ~€120)
⚠️ Does not measure HRV with the same accuracy as the best chest electrodes for recovery analysis

🏆 Helio Strap vs. the Competition

Device	Position	Accuracy	Comfort	Price
Helio Strap	Ankle	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	~€120
Polar H10	Chest	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	~€90
Garmin HRM-Pro	Chest	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	~€80
Fitbit / Smartwatch	Wrist	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	€100–400
Wahoo TICKR X	Chest	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	~€60

🤔 Who Is the Helio Strap For?

✅ Triathletes and TT cyclists: a crouched position where chest straps feel tighter
✅ Cyclists who hate chest straps but want greater accuracy than a watch
✅ Long-distance touring cyclists: 30-hour battery and comfort during long rides
✅ Cyclists with sensitive skin who experience irritation from chest straps
❌ Not recommended if: you're looking for maximum accuracy during high-intensity intervals—in that case, a chest strap still wins

🚴 Try Cycling with CaranvaSports

If you're considering whether cycling is right for you before investing in accessories like the Helio Strap, remember that at CaranvaSports you can rent all types of bicycles in Spain's main destinations. Try one, ride, and make an informed decision.