10 Best Garmin Forerunners 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is an excellent choice for runners looking for a reliable and easy-to-use GPS running watch. Its built-in GPS tracks your runs accurately, providing detailed data on how far, how fast, and where you’ve run. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours in GPS mode, making it suitable for both daily use and longer running sessions.

The heart rate monitoring feature is convenient, though it’s important to note that it’s not a medical device and may not be as accurate as dedicated heart rate monitors. The watch offers various training and performance metrics, including race time predictions, finish time estimates, and PacePro, which helps plan your race day strategy. These features are great for anyone looking to improve their running performance.

The Forerunner 55’s smartwatch features, such as Bluetooth connectivity and customization options from the Connect IQ Store, add to its versatility. Additionally, it’s water-resistant and suitable for activities like pool swimming. However, the display quality, with a 1.04-inch screen, might feel small for some users, and the design is fairly basic compared to more premium models. In summary, the Garmin Forerunner 55 is a solid running watch packed with useful features for runners, though its simple design and small display might not appeal to everyone.

The Garmin Forerunner 265 Running Smartwatch stands out in the running smartwatch category, bringing a range of features that cater specifically to athletes and fitness enthusiasts. One of its key strengths is the brilliant AMOLED display, which provides clear visuals and is responsive to touch, making it easy to navigate through various functions. With up to 13 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and around 20 hours in GPS mode, this watch offers impressive longevity, allowing users to engage in extended training sessions without the constant worry of recharging.

The robust training metrics and recovery insights are also a highlight. Features like the training readiness score, which evaluates factors such as sleep and recovery, help users optimize their workouts and avoid overtraining. Additionally, the ability to receive personalized daily suggested workouts based on race input makes it an excellent choice for those preparing for upcoming events.

On the safety front, features like incident detection and assistance offer peace of mind for outdoor runners, ensuring that help can be summoned easily if needed. The multi-band GNSS with SatIQ technology enhances GPS accuracy, even in challenging environments, making it reliable for various terrains. The Garmin Forerunner 265 is a solid option for dedicated runners and fitness enthusiasts who appreciate advanced training metrics, safety features, and long battery life.

The Garmin Forerunner 255 Music is a well-rounded GPS running smartwatch that stands out with its impressive battery life, capable of lasting up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and 30 hours in GPS mode. This is ideal for long-distance runners and those who don't want to charge their device frequently. Its GPS accuracy ensures reliable tracking of your runs, making it a dependable companion for outdoor activities. The heart rate monitoring, including HRV status, provides valuable insights into your overall wellness and training performance, which is an added benefit for fitness enthusiasts aiming for detailed health metrics.

Advanced training and performance metrics, coupled with personalized workout suggestions and race preparation tips, make it a comprehensive tool for serious athletes. The ability to download and play music directly from the watch is convenient for those who prefer phone-free workouts, though it requires a subscription to services like Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer. The watch's display is easy to read in direct sunlight, and its lightweight, slim design makes it comfortable to wear. Water resistance adds versatility for various outdoor conditions and activities.

However, the need for additional accessories like the Running Dynamics Pod or HRM-Pro monitor to access certain advanced features could be a downside for some users. Additionally, the memory storage capacity of 4 GB may be limiting for those who wish to store a large amount of music or workout data. In conclusion, the Garmin Forerunner 255 Music is an excellent choice for runners and fitness enthusiasts looking for a feature-rich, reliable, and durable smartwatch with advanced health and training insights.