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10 Best Garmin Watch For Running And Cycling 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

Garmin vívoactive 5, Health and Fitness GPS Smartwatch, AMOLED Display, Up to 11 Days of Battery, Black

The Garmin vívoactive 5 is a solid choice for both runners and cyclists looking for a versatile GPS smartwatch. Its bright AMOLED display offers clear visibility, making it user-friendly while on the go. With a battery life of up to 11 days, it ensures that you can track your activities without frequent recharging, which is a significant advantage for long training sessions or multi-day events. The built-in GPS provides accurate tracking of distances and routes, essential for outdoor activities like running and cycling.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Battery Life
The battery life on the Garmin vívoactive 5 is impressive, lasting much longer than previous models like the Fitbit.
Heart Rate Monitoring
The health tracking features, including sleep tracking and heart rate monitoring, are excellent and provide detailed insights.
Training and Performance Metrics
There are numerous features available, including workout monitoring for various categories such as running, biking, and strength workouts.
Connectivity and Smart Features
The Garmin app enhances the experience by allowing users to enter competitions with other Garmin members, adding a social and competitive element.
Customizability and User Interface
The interface isn't overly integrated like some other smartwatches, which some users appreciate for its simplicity.
#2
9.6 score

Garmin Forerunner® 965 Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery Insights, Black and Powder Gray, 010-02809-00

The Garmin Forerunner 965 is an excellent choice for runners and cyclists, offering a range of features tailored to those who want to track their performance closely. One of its standout features is the brilliant AMOLED display, which makes it easy to read data even in bright conditions. The multi-band GPS ensures that you can confidently navigate even in challenging environments, while the battery life is impressive—lasting up to 23 days in smartwatch mode and 31 hours in GPS mode, which is especially beneficial for long-distance activities.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
GPS Accuracy
The accuracy of the GPS is excellent, making it worth the upgrade.
Battery Life
The battery life is awesome, lasting about 2 weeks between charging, unlike the Apple Watch that had to be charged every night.
Heart Rate Monitoring
This watch is awesome at tracking activities, sleep, heart rate, and a list of other items.
Connectivity and Smart Features
The watch turns on when you raise it toward your gaze, and at night the screen is dimmed and simplified, which works well.
Customizability and User Interface
The display is bright and easy to read, and the ability to change and customize the watch faces is highly appreciated.
#3
9.4 score

Garmin 010-02638-10 Forerunner® 955, GPS Running Smartwatch, Tailored to Triathletes, Long-Lasting Battery, Black

The Garmin Forerunner 955 is an impressive smartwatch designed especially for runners and cyclists, particularly those involved in triathlons. One of its standout features is the GPS accuracy, which is enhanced by multiple global navigation satellite systems, ensuring you get precise readings even in challenging environments. This is a significant advantage for serious athletes who need reliable data on their performance. The 15-day battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 42 hours in GPS mode means you won’t have to worry about frequent charging during long training sessions or races, which is a major plus.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
GPS Accuracy
GPS tracking, battery life, and overall software options make this watch worth the investment.
Battery Life
Battery life on this watch is next level, making it the ultimate selling point.
Training and Performance Metrics
The watch takes a few weeks to learn your habits, but the training suggestions are quite accurate.
Durability and Water Resistance
The touch screen works surprisingly well even underwater.
Connectivity and Smart Features
Spotify sync allows for phone-free music during runs.
Customizability and User Interface
The customizable watch face allows for easy access to weather updates, sunrise/sunset times, and important notifications.

Top 10 Best Garmin Watch For Running And Cycling 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

Garmin vívoactive 5, Health and Fitness GPS Smartwatch, AMOLED Display, Up to 11 Days of Battery, Black

GPS Accuracy: accurate distance and route tracking
Battery Life: up to 11 days
Heart Rate Monitoring: wrist-based heart rate tracking
Training and Performance Metrics: Body Battery, 30+ sports apps
Connectivity and Smart Features: music downloads, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB
Customizability and User Interface: intuitive user interface

Chosen by 1434 this week

Garmin Forerunner® 965 Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery Insights, Black and Powder Gray, 010-02809-00

GPS Accuracy: Multi-band GPS
Battery Life: 23 days smartwatch, 31 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: Wrist-Based Heart Rate
Training and Performance Metrics: Training readiness, daily workouts, recovery insights
Durability and Water Resistance: Titanium bezel, water resistance
Connectivity and Smart Features: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Customizability and User Interface: Customizable user interface

Garmin 010-02638-10 Forerunner® 955, GPS Running Smartwatch, Tailored to Triathletes, Long-Lasting Battery, Black

GPS Accuracy: multiple global navigation systems
Battery Life: 15-day smartwatch, 42 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: robust
Training and Performance Metrics: personalized workouts, race widget
Durability and Water Resistance: waterproof
Connectivity and Smart Features: Bluetooth, USB, Wi-Fi
Customizability and User Interface: customizable interface

Garmin Forerunner® 255 Music, GPS Running Smartwatch with Music, Advanced Insights, Long-Lasting Battery, Black - 010-02641-20

GPS Accuracy: Generally praised
Battery Life: 14 days smartwatch, 30 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: Heart rate variability tracking
Training and Performance Metrics: Personalized training, advanced health metrics
Durability and Water Resistance: Water-resistant
Connectivity and Smart Features: Bluetooth, USB, music, wireless headphones
Customizability and User Interface: Customizable UI, adaptive training plans

Garmin Forerunner 55, GPS Running Watch with Daily Suggested Workouts, Up to 2 weeks of Battery Life, Aqua

GPS Accuracy: excellent
Battery Life: up to two weeks, 20 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: Wrist-Based Heart Rate
Training and Performance Metrics: race time predictions, finish estimates
Durability and Water Resistance: commendable
Connectivity and Smart Features: Bluetooth support
Customizability and User Interface: personalize watch faces, access apps

Garmin 010-02540-34 fenix 7 Sapphire Solar, adventure smartwatch, Solar Charging Capabilities, rugged outdoor GPS watch, touchscreen, health and wellness features, Black DLC Titanium with Black Band

GPS Accuracy: Multi-band frequency, GNSS network support
Battery Life: Up to 22 days, 73 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: Wrist-based heart rate monitor
Training and Performance Metrics: Advanced metrics, Pulse Ox sensor
Durability and Water Resistance: Scratch-resistant, water-resistant
Connectivity and Smart Features: Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth
Customizability and User Interface: 30 sports apps, touchscreen, buttons

Garmin Forerunner 265S Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery Insights, Light Pink and Powder Gray

GPS Accuracy: multi-band GNSS, SatIQ technology
Battery Life: up to 15 days, 24 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: HRV status, training readiness, sleep tracking
Training and Performance Metrics: over 30 activity profiles, including running
Connectivity and Smart Features: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, notifications
Customizability and User Interface: personalized workout suggestions, race widget

Garmin 010-02120-20 Forerunner 245 Music, GPS Running Smartwatch with Music and Advanced Dynamics, Black

GPS Accuracy: accurate tracking
Battery Life: up to 7 days, 6 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: robust
Training and Performance Metrics: training status, adaptive plans
Durability and Water Resistance: Gorilla Glass, water resistance
Connectivity and Smart Features: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Spotify
Customizability and User Interface: user-friendly, customizable

Garmin Forerunner 165 Music, Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED Display, Training Metrics and Recovery Insights, Music on Your Wrist, Whitestone

GPS Accuracy: accurate tracking of pace, distance
Battery Life: up to 11 days, 19 hours GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: wrist-based heart rate monitoring
Training and Performance Metrics: personalized workout suggestions, Garmin Coach
Connectivity and Smart Features: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB
Customizability and User Interface: AMOLED touchscreen, button controls

Garmin Forerunner 945, Premium GPS Running/Triathlon Smartwatch with Music, Black - 010-02063-00

GPS Accuracy: accurate GPS
Battery Life: up to 2 weeks, 10 hours with GPS
Heart Rate Monitoring: wrist-based heart rate monitor
Training and Performance Metrics: VO2 Max, training load, recovery time
Durability and Water Resistance: suitable for various weather conditions
Connectivity and Smart Features: Bluetooth, GPS, Wi-Fi, music download
Customizability and User Interface: complex interface for beginners
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Buying Guide for the Best Garmin Watch For Running And Cycling

Choosing the right Garmin watch for running and cycling can significantly enhance your training and performance. The right watch will provide you with accurate data, help you track your progress, and offer features that can make your workouts more efficient and enjoyable. To make the best choice, consider the following key specifications and how they align with your personal needs and goals.
GPS AccuracyGPS accuracy is crucial for tracking your routes, distance, and pace accurately. This is especially important for runners and cyclists who rely on precise data to monitor their performance and progress. Garmin watches are known for their reliable GPS, but some models offer multi-band GPS or additional satellite systems (like GLONASS and Galileo) for enhanced accuracy. If you often train in challenging environments like dense forests or urban areas with tall buildings, opting for a watch with advanced GPS capabilities can be beneficial.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long your watch can function before needing a recharge. For long-distance runners and cyclists, a watch with extended battery life is essential to ensure it lasts through your entire workout or race. Garmin watches offer varying battery life, from models that last a few days to those that can go for weeks in smartwatch mode. If you frequently engage in long training sessions or multi-day events, choose a watch with a longer battery life to avoid interruptions.
Heart Rate MonitoringHeart rate monitoring helps you track your cardiovascular performance and ensure you're training within your target heart rate zones. This can improve your efficiency and prevent overtraining. Garmin watches come with built-in optical heart rate sensors, and some models also support external chest strap sensors for more accurate readings. If precise heart rate data is crucial for your training, consider a watch that supports both wrist-based and external heart rate monitoring.
Training and Performance MetricsTraining and performance metrics provide insights into your fitness level, training load, recovery time, and more. These metrics can help you optimize your training plan and avoid overtraining. Garmin watches offer a range of metrics, from basic ones like pace and distance to advanced ones like VO2 max, lactate threshold, and training effect. If you're serious about improving your performance, look for a watch that offers comprehensive training and performance metrics.
Durability and Water ResistanceDurability and water resistance are important for ensuring your watch can withstand the rigors of your training and various weather conditions. Garmin watches are designed to be robust, with many models offering water resistance up to 50 meters or more. If you often train in harsh environments or participate in activities like swimming, choose a watch with high durability and water resistance to ensure it can handle your lifestyle.
Connectivity and Smart FeaturesConnectivity and smart features enhance the functionality of your watch by allowing you to sync data with your smartphone, receive notifications, and use apps. Garmin watches offer various connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and ANT+. Some models also support music storage and playback, contactless payments, and smart notifications. If you value staying connected and having additional features at your fingertips, consider a watch with robust connectivity and smart features.
Customizability and ComfortCustomizability and comfort are important for ensuring your watch fits well and meets your personal preferences. Garmin watches come with various strap options, watch faces, and widgets that you can customize to suit your style and needs. Additionally, the comfort of the watch is crucial, especially for long training sessions. Look for a watch with a comfortable strap and a size that fits your wrist well to ensure it doesn't cause discomfort during your workouts.

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