We love our running gadgets here at TechSmart, so Nike and TomTom’s recent collaboration has got us quite excited. The new Nike+ SportWatch GPS Powered by TomTom has been unveiled at the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

During running, the new Nike+ SportWatch GPS captures location information while showing runners their time, distance, pace, and calories burned on an easy-to-read screen featuring a customisable layout. 

Throughout the run, the GPS receiver works in tandem with the shoe-based Nike+ Sensor to deliver highly accurate pace and distance data. The Nike+ SportWatch GPS is designed to be simple and intuitive with only three buttons and a Tap Screen for navigation.

After workout, the Nike+ SportWatch GPS can be plugged into any USB port on a Mac or PC, which immediately launches the Nike+ Connect interface which automatically transfers information to www.nikeplus.com.

Nikeplus.com presents runners with the GPS mapping, total miles, pace and elevation data for their most recent run in a rich and engaging way that will be familiar to users of the popular Nike+ GPS iPhone application. Data from each run is automatically applied to all current Nike+ Challenges, Nike+ Goals, and Nike+ Coach programs in which the runner is participating.

 “The Nike+ SportWatch GPS is a game-changing product that furthers our commitment to provide all athletes with unparalleled motivation and the tools to get better,” said Stefan Olander, VP of Nike Digital Sport.

On-watch features include:

• Tap Screen for setting laps and activating backlight
• Run History with data from past runs
• Personal Records including those imported from Nikeplus.com 
• Quick Start with optional shoe-based Nike+ Sensor
• Heart Rate Monitor compatibility

Some of the unique motivating factors the Nike+ SportWatch GPS offer runners on-screen include:

• Recognition (or “Attaboys”) for personal records
• Run Reminders that appear after five days if a run has not been logged
• Post-run acknowledgement and encouragement

Additional Features at Nikeplus.com

Athletes who want to get the most out of their run and from the Nike+ SportWatch GPS will have access to a huge catalogue of run routes logged by Nike and published by other runners on streets and trails around the world.

Each run will be graphically mapped with the help of TomTom technology, and include route notes, elevation and length. Runners will also be able to find the perfect route by searching the catalogue by location, length, difficulty, and even landmarks.

Since the 2006 launch of Nike+ in partnership with Apple, a variety of Nike+ enabled devices have been introduced to help runners reach their full potential including the Nike+ iPod Sport Kit for iPod nano and iPod touch, the Nike+ SportBand, and the new Nike+ GPS App for use with the iPhone.

The Nike+ SportWatch GPS is scheduled to be at retail stores and online in the U.S. and the U.K. beginning April 1. Broader distribution is scheduled for July 1. The Nike+ SportWatch GPS will be previewed for consumers at Nikerunning.com and TomTom.com beginning today.

No local release date or pricing has been revealed yet.