Fitbit - motivating or a toy?

I'm thinking of asking for a Fitbit as a Christmas gift.  I received one last year and liked it but got a bumpy rash so quit wearing it.  A few weeks later they did a recall of that style. 

If you have one, do you like it?  Is it motivating?

I had the fitbit, the original one. I loved it until I sent it through the washing machine AND dryer. it was toast. since fitbit no longer sells that model, I decided to go with a different brand, now I use Jawbone UP and I have no problems with it. I make it a game with myself trying to beat last weeks steps per week.

From having a Fitbit and Jawbone, which do you like better? 

I've been researching fitness trackers, and I think I am going to get a Misfit Shine. It's the only waterproof tracker on the market, and I do a lot of swimming. I think a Fitbit would be fine, as long as you use it. If you get one, I hope the rash issue has been taken care of!

It sounds as though the Misfit Shine will be a good one for you with your swimming. 

With the recall, I'd think they would have fixed those issues for any of their other products. 

Thanks for your reply!

I have a Misfit and I cannot recommend it.  The device doesn't actually secure into the wrist strap, it's just held due to friction and pressure against your wrist.  The app interface is also lacking.  

The Nike Fuelband is waterproof and a significantly better device than the Misfit.  

Thanks for the advice, Gwen.

I have had my jawbone for over a month now and no ra**** tracks my sleep pattern too. however, I do prefer my old fitbit because you can access from the computer if need be, no need for a smart phone like the jawbone. and the dashboard was easier to use with fitbit. However, it's like changing from directv to Comcast, channels are the same just on different #s. it just takes time to get used to

Thanks for the info on both Fitbit and Jawbone.  I'm leaning toward Fitbit.

I have a wearable fitness tracker because I like data.  It does nothing to motivate me, but I like to see the numbers and it's a good watch.