For swimming and running, Garmin watches rule over the entire market. Their durability and robustness are extremely impressive, making them the best outdoor watches.
Garmin Watches comes with some remarkable capabilities that attract every athlete. Whether you love swimming, running, hiking, or any other outdoor activity, these smart wears are your best companion.
But in today’s article, I will share some of the best Garmin watches for swimming and running. So let’s get started!
Top Recommendations
7 Best Garmin Watch For Swimming and Running
1- Garmin Forerunner 45S
Specifications
| OS | NA |
| Compatibility | iOS, Android |
| Display | 1.04″ (26.3 mm) diameter |
| Internal Storage | No |
| IP rating: | 50 meters |
| Battery Life | 7 days |
| GPS | Yes |
First of all there comes Garmin Forerunner 45S, a multisport watch. This smartwatch is the most affordable in the Forerunner family. You will get pretty decent features, including GPS, Garmin Coach, calories tracker, 24/7 heart rate monitor, sleep tracking, and more.
Forerunner 45S comes in two variants, a 39MM, and 42MM. You can choose anyone according to your wrist size.
Because of its 32grams of weight, this is extremely lightweight wear. In addition, a 208 x 208 pixels high-resolution display enables you to read dial even under direct sunlight.
Like all other Garmin watches, Forerunner 45S also has a robust design and has 5ATM water resistance. So you can wear this watch while swimming without any fear of damage.
Premium Features In Garmin Forerunner 45S
Yes, you will see some of the premium features. Stress tracking and Body battery energy monitor are my favorite ones. Whenever you feel stress, the Watch recognizes it and suggests some mindfulness exercises.
Similarly, a Body energy monitor tracks your body’s energy levels, and hence you can improve it with your hard work. When your stamina level goes up, your body’s energy level increased.
Besides this, Forerunner 45 has a lot of built-in activity tracking modes. Most useful for us is swimming and running, you will get more accurate and precise data of your activities. With built-in GPS, the Watch also shows the distance cover, pace, speed, etc., during your running.
Garmin watches usually come with Treadmill mode, which is the perfect feature for indoor activities. Forerunner 45S also has this feature.
When it comes to battery life, you will get seven days of battery life which is not bad. I saw most of the Garmin watches offer an average of seven days of battery life. This is pretty excellent as compare to Wear OS watches.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Physical buttonsExcellent battery life
Accurate insights
Personalized training by Garmin
Lightweight
[/i2pros][i2cons]No music
Not compatible with Runkeeper[/i2cons][/i2pc]
2- Garmin Swim 2 (Best Garmin Swimming Watch)
Specifications
| Compatibility | iOS, Android |
| Display | 1.04″ (26.3 mm) diameter |
| Internal Storage | No |
| IP rating: | 50 meters |
| Battery Life | 7 days | GPS mode: Up to 13 hours |
| GPS | Yes |
Garmin Swim 2 is best Garmin watch for swimming, it has insane water-resistant capabilities. So if you are a swimmer, you should never miss this precious Garmin device.
With its beautiful five-button interface, you can quickly start tracking workouts, view different data, switch to swim mode, and log drills.
Due to its 36g of weight, Garmin Swim 2 is a highly light watch. As a result, you will never experience a bulky feel on your wrist.
Pool Swim Mode
This multisport GPS swimming watch monitors your heart rate underwater. You can also switch to pool mode; in this mode, it records distance, pace, stroke type, store count, and SWOLF.
Because of Drill logging, you can track distance and time for drills such as one-arm swimming, kicking, or sculling. Another exciting feature is, Garmin Swim 2 also tracks your anaerobic and aerobic health during swimming.
Just like Forerunner 45S, you will also get Stress tracking and a Body Battery energy monitor in this watch. So there are a lot of features to explore in Garmin Swim. But due to its premium swimming features, it’s is best Garmin watch for simmers.
Like all other Garmin watches, there is also a Smart notifications system, Multi-GNSS support, Garmin connect that allows you to create your course, Pacing alerts, and different activities tracking modes.
Lastly, Garmin Swim 2 offers seven days of battery life in normal mode and 13 hours in GPS mode.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Wrist-Based heart rate monitorMost advanced swimming features
Accurate and Efficient
Mid-range watch[/i2pros][i2cons]Battery life is not much longer as compare to prdecessor[/i2cons][/i2pc]
3- Garmin Vivoactive 4 (Best Garmin Watch For Running)
Specifications
| OS | NA |
| Compatibility | iOS, Android |
| Display | 1.3″ (33.0 mm) diameter |
| Internal Storage | 3.5 GB |
| IP rating: | 50 meters |
| Battery Life | 8 days |
| GPS | Yes |
Due to 20+ preloaded sports apps, Garmin Vivoactive 4 is considered to best the Garmin watch for Running. Now you can track your pace, speed, and distance more accurately.
While running, you can also enjoy your favorite tracks, as Vivoactive 4 comes with built-in storage. You can also download songs from Spotify and build a playlist.
The watch has a super bright 1.13″ AMOLED display. You can easily read its dial under direct sunlight. As compared to its predecessor, Vivoactive 4 has only 36g of weight which is extremely light.
Best For Runners
In the family of Garmin Vivoactive, this member is pretty cool as it offers the most premium features. But the question is, what features does it provide for Runners?
Well, this insane device comes with a Pulse OX sensor that tracks your blood oxygen saturation during running. In addition, respiration tracking tracks your aerobic/anaerobic activities, hydration tracking, body battery energy monitor, and stress tracking.
All these features are crucial for a professional runner. And must track all the aspects to achieve better pace and boost its performance.
You will see intelligent sleep tracking, stress tracking, and different mindfulness exercises to lower stress along with running features.
Vivoactive 4 is also an ideal watch for women, as it tracks their menstrual cycle. Suggest different nutritional plans, educational plans, log symptoms, and much. This means you can easily take care of yourself during pregnancy.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Best for runnersOn-screen animation workouts
Advanced GPS
VO2 Max indicator
Variety of premium features [/i2pros][i2cons]Not compatible with all the fitness app
One-button functionality is not ideal[/i2cons][/i2pc]
4- Garmin Fenix Pro 6
Specifications
| Compatibility | iOS, Android |
| Display | 1.3” (33.02 mm) diameter |
| Internal Storage | 32 GB |
| IP rating: | 10 ATM |
| Battery Life | 14 days |
| GPS | Yes |
If you have a solid budget, then you can invest in this Garmin Fenix 6 Pro which is best for both swimming and running. It has a 10 ATM water-resistant design and passed a 12-grade military test that makes it the most durable watch ever.
There are two different variants available; a simple one and a Solar. However, the solar edition is pretty expensive, so I recommend buying a simple variant with all premium features.
I love its display and detailed metrics. You can see analytics via graphs, percentages, and different visualizations. Unfortunately, because of the stainless steel body, this watch is bulky and has 5.4 ounces of weight. But it’s flexible, and soft Silicon bands never let you feel discomfort.
The most remarkable feature in Fenix pro 6 is Animated workouts that help perform every activity perfectly.
Does Fenix 6 Pro Worth It?
This rugged watch is a highly premium beast, and you will get tons of sports apps for running, hiking, biking, skiing, swimming, and beyond. Like other Garmin watches, you have a Body battery energy monitor and advanced sleep monitoring.
Along with GPS, you have ABC sensors that allow you to measures heights, altitudes, weather, sea distance, directions, and more. So, whenever you are hiking, running, or jogging, Fenix Pro 6 gives you in-depth route guidance and tracking.
So what are the major high-end features in this smartwatch that make it unique?
- ClimbPro
- Backcountry Ski
- MTB Dynamics
- Surf-Ready Features
- Hydration tracking
- PacePro Technology
- Golf Courses
- Power management
- Respiration Tracking
- Pulse OX sensor
- Acclimation
- Round-Trip routing
- Expedition mode
So yes! Fenix 6 Pro is worth it. I can’t see all these premium features in just one device; that’s why you will pay for value.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]More advanced and premium featuresMost durable Garmin watch
Excellent battery life
Very accurate and precise insights
Animated workouts
Shows deep stats[/i2pros][i2cons]Expensive
Garmin Connect IQ store still a bit clunky[/i2cons][/i2pc]
5- Garmin Venu Sq (Affordable Watch)
Specifications
| Compatibility | iOS, Android |
| Display | 1.3″ (33.1 mm) diagonal |
| Internal Storage | 3.4 GB |
| IP rating: | 5 ATM |
| Battery Life | 6 days |
| GPS | Yes |
Lastly, we put the most affordable Garmin watch on our list. Vene Sq is a multisport watch that comes in a square shape dial, which is unique. If you love to wear square dials, then probably this watch is the perfect option for you.
There is a 1.3″ AMOLED display that looks pretty beautiful, and you can easily read the dial under direct sunlight. Compared to Garmin Fenix 6 Pro, Venu Sq is a highly comfortable watch with only 1.60 ounces of weight.
What Features Does It Offer
Although Venu Sq is the best budget watch, it doesn’t mean it offers few features. Don’t judge any book by its cover. When you use this watch, you will get a premium feel.
Well, Garmin Venu Sq is best for all outdoor sports, like running, swimming, hiking, cycling, and more. A GPS is a big plus point in such an affordable watch.
Similarly, you will get Body battery energy monitoring, stress tracking, Pulse OX sensor, Hydration tracking, respiration tracking, mindfulness breath, advanced sleep monitoring, and more.
Most of the features are similar to Vivoactive 3, but their durability and design are the only difference. I do not recommend Garmin Venu Sq to Swimmers as its water-resistance capabilities are pretty less. But fur runners, this Garmin watch is a perfect device.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Long battery lifeBest budget Garmin watch
Lightweight
Accurate tracking[/i2pros][i2cons]No altimeter and Gyroscope
No mic and speaker
Minimal 3rd party app support[/i2cons][/i2pc]
6- Garmin Venu 2
Specifications
| Compatibility | iOS, Android |
| Display | 1.3″ (33.0 mm) diameter |
| Internal Storage | 8 GB |
| IP rating: | 50 meters |
| Battery Life | 11days | GPS mode: Up to 8 hours |
| GPS | Yes |
If you want to buy a good running watch, look no further than Garmin’s Venu 2. It is made of premium materials and has a fashionable look. The watch has a great fit and is light enough to be worn all day without getting uncomfortable.
It has a bright AMOLED display with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 to protect the device from accidental damage. Additionally, this watch comes in various colors to match your style.
How Is It Best For Runners and Swimmers?
This smartwatch provides you with high-accuracy statistics that will help you enhance your performance. Moreover, the watch’s advanced sensors can track your high-intensity movements, making it ideal for runners and swimmers, respectively.
Also, you can create your workout and sync it with your watch using Garmin Venu 2. The Venu 2 is an excellent choice for monitoring your movements. You can keep track of your speed, distance travelled, pace, and calories burned during outdoor activities.
It also has 25 preloaded GPS sports modes for tracking outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, badminton, HIIT, golf, and more.
Besides, it is water-resistant to 50 meters, so you can wear it while swimming and bathing without fear of damaging it.
Other Features
In addition to its fitness features, wearers of this wristwatch can receive notifications from their phone or email, as well as social media updates.
Unfortunately, the most significant flaw is its AMOLED display, which can be challenging to read in direct sunlight compared to other Garmin watches.
Overall, the Garmin Venu 2 is a great fitness watch for runners and swimmers looking for a simple device for personal use. It is without a doubt the most affordable option for those looking for a basic fitness tracker.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]AMOLED DisplayBuilt-in GPS
Water-resistant
Excellent battery life
Budget-friendly[/i2pros][i2cons]Expensive[/i2cons][/i2pc]
7- Garmin Forerunner 745
Specifications
| Compatibility | iOS, Android |
| Display | 1.2″ (30.4 mm) diameter |
| Internal Storage | 4 GB |
| IP rating: | 50 meters |
| Battery Life | 7 days | GPS mode: Up to 6 hours |
| GPS | Yes |
Garmin Forerunner 745 outperforms every other Forerunner member in terms of swimming and running. Besides the essential features, you will also get some of the most advanced ones.
The super AMOLED display gives your watch more vibrant colors and allows you to see the dial even in direct sunlight.
Even though it has a brighter AMOLED display, this watch still has a battery life of 7 days in smartwatch mode and 6 hours in GPS mode.
The GPS in the Forerunner 745 is incredible, and it includes a Multi-GNSS feature that allows you to track your routes even in the most challenging conditions. Thanks to its speed and accuracy, the GPS promises to provide the best possible experience for its users.
In addition to GPS, the watch has a barometer and altimeter to help you keep track of your run. Additionally, it includes the performance condition, training load, and training status. Using these metrics, you can progress to a higher level of fitness.
Also, the watch has an IP rating of 5 ATM, which means you can use it underwater without fear.
Other Features
The internal storage capacity of the Garmin Venu 2 is 4 GB, which is enough to store 500 audio files. In addition, you can use Garmin Connect to install various apps, such as Spotify, Deezer, and so on. However, 4 GB of storage is insufficient to accommodate additional apps.
Furthermore, you can use Garmin Coach to set goals for yourself, which will help you reach them. Using the Garmin phone app, you can look at all the details of a particular workout after it’s completed.
With this smartwatch, you can listen to your favorite music wherever you go. Additionally, Garmin Pay enables contactless payments, and smart notifications facilitate you to receive texts, emails, and alerts.
In the end, this watch provides excellent results and is regarded as the best watch for running and swimming 2022.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Comfortable to wearVivid Display
Accurate sensors
VO2 max indicator
Built-in GPS
Easy to use[/i2pros][i2cons]Pricey[/i2cons][/i2pc]
8- Garmin Forerunner 945
Specifications
| OS | Wear OS |
| Compatibility | Android and iOS |
| Display | 1.2 inches, Transflective (MIP) LCD |
| Internal Storage | 8 GB |
| IP Rating | 50m |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours(GPS mode) |
| Built-in GPS | Yes |
Are you a triathlete and want the perfect Garmin watch for swimming or running, then Forerunner 945 is made for you to chase your victory?
Garmin Forerunner 945 contains all the essential features that a serious runner needs. If you are very curious about running and want to do high-level training, then this watch is for you.
How Is It Best For Running?
As far as running is concerned, the Garmin Forerunner 945 is the top dog in the Forerunner line. The 945 is a total powerhouse, with every feature a runner could want.
The acclimation tracking feature of this watch provides acclimation notifications and correctness to your VO2 max. With this feature, you can track your altitude and heat acclimation.
Training load is also an important feature that a runner wants. So this masterpiece also has the training load using which you can measure your exercise volume from the last 7 days.
After each workout, the recovery time advisor tells you how long you should rest before trying again. Even all-day stress, sleep, and daily activity outside of workouts are considered.
With the Round-trip routing feature, you can get the suggested routes that will bring you back to your starting area and help you find the ideal local paths.
How Is It Best For Swimming?
Apart from running, Forerunner 945 also has useful swimming features that make swimming easier. Firstly, a 50m water-resistance feature is the perfect partner for you in swimming.
I also appreciate the advanced swim workouts and pacing alerts. Other than the optical-based HR sensor, the extracted data is as accurate for land-based activities.
As far as swimming laps are concerned, the watch works perfectly. If you forget to select rest while on the rest, the laps will keep incrementing, so be very careful.
Note: Surface swimming is the purpose of this device. Diving with the product may damage it and void its warranty.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]LightweightThin profile
Fully features
Effective for running and swimming
Very accurate[/i2pros][i2cons]Expensive[/i2cons][/i2pc]
9- Garmin Forerunner 55
Specifications
| OS | Wear OS |
| Compatibility | Android and iOS |
| Display | 1.04 inches, Transflective (MIP) LCD |
| Internal Storage | No onboard music storage |
| IP Rating | 50m |
| Battery Life | Up to 14 days |
| Built-in GPS | Yes |
The Forerunner 55 is thoughtfully designed for those just starting or moving up from a basic fitness tracker as an entry-level running watch.
People of all skill levels can easily track their stats and chase their fitness goals with this easy-to-use GPS smartwatch.
How Is It Best For Running?
The Garmin Forerunner 55 is specifically designed to meet the needs of competitive runners in a lower price range, and it contains all the premium features that a runner needs
The PacePro technology helps you to plan your race day strategy. This feature also provides GPS-based guidance for a selected distance or course in the Garmin Connect app
With the help of Virtual running, you can run the race at any location, or any pace, etc. Moreover, you can finish your race over a longer period that suits your schedule with this feature.
With the integrated GPS, you can track where you run and get precise statistics, such as distance, pace, and intervals
The finish time feature of this watch allows you to see the data screen, which shows your estimated finish time.
Use the built-in track run activity to measure your lap distances and see your distances in meters when you’re ready to hit the track for some speedwork.
Cadence alerts also tell you when you have gone outside the target cadence range.
How Is It Best For Swimming?
Garmin Forerunner 55 comes with the new and amazing feature of the Swim activity profile. By using its built-in accelerometer, you can track how much you’ve swum.
This works well for just doing laps in the pool. With this device, you’ll be able to track the number of laps you’ve completed, your pace, your strokes, your swolves, and your heart rate.
You may wear this watch not only while taking a shower but also while swimming since it is waterproof up to 5 ATMs.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Compact design and lightweightComprehensive for running and swimming
50m water-resistant
2 weeks long battery life
Durable[/i2pros][i2cons]Lacks speaker and microphone[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Best Garmin Watches for Running and Swimming – Buyer’s Guide
There are a few things to keep in mind when looking for the best Garmin watches for running and swimming:
- Design
- Connectivity
- GPS
- Music
- Health Features
- Water-Resistance
- Battery Life
1. Design
The design of any watch is crucial to consider. A stylish and high-quality smartwatch will enhance your appearance. As a result, choosing a smartwatch based on aesthetic appeal is highly recommended.
2. Connectivity
Most watches can connect to other watches, which is helpful if you need to store and share information. You can use that data to improve your running and swimming abilities. So, choose a watch that can connect to various apps, allowing you to share and discuss data with others.
3. GPS
Garmin is well-known for its GPS technology, which is why nearly all of its watches come equipped with it. Furthermore, a watch equipped with GLONASS is preferable for more accurate and rapid navigation.
4. Music
Some running watches come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity so that you can listen to music while you work out. This feature may be a must-have for those who enjoy listening to music on their wrist.
5. Health Features
In addition to activity and fitness tracking, a smartwatch should have other health-related features. These health features assist you in reaching your fitness objectives and maintaining them.
6. Water-Resistance
If a watch is not water-resistant, it cannot be worn while swimming. As a result, one of the essential characteristics of a swimming watch is that it has been certified as water-resistant.
That’s why we strongly recommend purchasing a water-resistant smartwatch that is safe to wear while swimming.
7. Battery Life
The battery life of a watch is critical to its utility. If you don’t want to recharge your watch every 2 to 3 hours, look for a model with longer battery life. It is recommended to consider the battery life and choose one with a minimum of 6-7 days of battery life.
Remember: A device’s battery life is affected by the time used.
Why Should You Buy A Best Garmin Watch For Swimming and Running?
Here comes the main question, Why are Garmin Watches best for Swimming and running?
The durability and robustness are the main themes behind Garmin watches. In addition, their solid and special stainless steel design makes them unique from the rest of the Watches.
Most of them built to military standards (MIL-STD-810). And hence easily sustain thermal shocks and harsh outdoor environments.
I used a Garmin Vivoactive 3 in the past, and believe me, it’s just like a beast, and I haven’t seen a single stain on it yet. Similarly, health and outdoor activity tracking capabilities are unforgettable.
Best For Swimming
Garmin rigorously tests its devices for water resistance by subjecting them to various water pressures. As a result, most of Garmin’s watches can withstand some water exposure.
But only watches with a water resistance rating of 5 ATM (50 meters) or higher are designed to withstand usage while surface swimming without damaging them.
So if you are love swimming, Garmin watches are the best option for you. However, few Garmin watches with 100-meter water resistance can also be used for diving, etc. Garmin Instinct is one of them, which has stunning water-resistance capabilities.
Best For Running
If you run to set new personal records, find your Zen or enjoy the outdoors, Garmin has the watch for you. Those include everything from simple GPS running watches to advanced smartwatches with extended battery life and music storage.
Also Check: Best Garmin Watches With Music
The best thing is Garmin Coach, which never leaves you alone during your running. It offers free step-by-step guidance and a free training plan. The workouts sync directly to your watch and adapt based on your performance during the plan.
Built-in heart rate and GPS module allow you to monitor your running and fitness progress. The device also tracks distance, calories, pace, distance traveled, and more.
Final Words
After going through the above article, I hope you can pick the best Garmin watch for your wrist. It varies from activity to activity. Garmin Swim 2 is the perfect option for swimmers, and for runners, Vivoactive 4 and Forerunner 45S is a great option.
We will appreciate it if you select any watch from our list, and it also helps us make some pocket money.
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