RFID Race Timing Shoe Tag

How the IDTS-LSTH3 race timing shoe tag records a runner

1. Fit. The tag is looped onto the runner's shoe lace, or clipped to the bib, before the start.
2. Lay the mats. Timing mats are placed across the course at the start, split points and finish.
3. Cross. As the runner steps over a mat, the tag is read and the crossing is time-stamped.
4. Publish. The timing software compiles the reads into a result for each participant.

Why a shoe-mounted chip

On a shoe, the tag passes just above a ground mat, which makes it a natural fit for courses timed entirely with mats. It weighs 3–5 g, so runners barely notice it, and its IPX5 rating covers monsoon rain and puddles on the route. Because it is disposable, there is no tag-collection queue at the finish.

Ordering for an event

Order one tag per registered participant, plus a margin for late entries and replacements. For the timing points, see the RFID UHF mat antenna; if you would rather have the chip inside the race number, compare the UHF RFID marathon bib. Our race timing guide covers mat placement and split planning.