If you’ve opened a cycling magazine recently or registered for an event via Active.com, you’ve seen ads for Road ID . Often featuring Levi Leipheimer, the ads tout wearable ID bracelets displaying your name and emergency contact info. Most feature a wristband made from canvas, similar to a watchband with a medal plate with your personal details laser-engraved on for quick identification. Recently, Road ID introduced the Elite, a new model ID bracelet that is downright stylish.
I got mine a few weeks ago. With a matte black band and the stainless steel plate, it has a raw titanium look to it. You can even wear it to work if you wear cufflinks — it looks that good. And unlike the Sport model, which comes in three sizes, the Elite has an adjustable watch-style band as well as nine colors to choose from.
Initially, I was a little freaked out by the bracelet because it felt like a cross between toe tags and my insurance card. The steel plate features my first and last name, home town and state, and both a phone number and website where a First Responder could find my emergency info. To get that info, they need my serial number and pin, which is on the flipside of the bracelet.
On the site, First Responders — or anyone who has your serial number and pin number — can get access to the medical records you enter. I created my basic medical profile in about 15 or 20 minutes. The site is intuitive and easy to navigate. The cost? One year of info storage is included with the $29.99 Elite. Additional years cost between $8.49 and $9.99 depending on how many you buy.
Looking for choices? Road ID also offers a model that attaches to your running shoes, ankle bracelet, a dog tag-like model, and a shoe model with an attached pouch for keys or an emergency stash of cash.
Despite my initial hesitation, after inputting the info online, I’m feeling good about having the bracelet. After thinking it through, this is not anywhere near like a toe tag. It is more a dog tag mixed with my insurance card. Yes, that is how I can think of it!
Road ID is worth checking out for any athlete. It will probably give you peace of mind and will definitely do so for your loved ones. www.roadid.com
—Stephen Krcmar lives and plays in Mammoth Lakes, Calif.
