Unlike other models that struggle with battery life or limited workout options, the Garmin Forerunner 165 Running Smartwatch with AMOLED Display truly impressed me. I’ve tested it during long runs and cycling sessions, and it kept up without missing a beat—up to 11 days in smartwatch mode and 19 hours with GPS. The vibrant AMOLED screen is a game-changer, offering sharp visuals even in bright sunlight, and the easy-to-use interface made navigation a breeze.
What really stood out is the personalized training suggestions and safety features like incident detection and live location sharing. The watch’s versatility with 25+ activity profiles means it’s not just for running but also great for cycling, HIIT, and strength training. After comparing it with slightly cheaper options like the Garmin Forerunner 55 and less advanced smartwatches, I found the Forerunner 165 provides a superior mix of durability, display quality, and smart features. Honestly, it’s a top pick for anyone serious about their fitness—reliable, comprehensive, and built to push your limits.
Top Recommendation: Garmin Forerunner 165 Running Smartwatch with AMOLED Display
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its brilliant AMOLED touchscreen, long-lasting battery life, and extensive activity profiles. Its personalized workout plans and safety features surpass the Garmin Forerunner 55 and other cheaper smartwatches, providing more value for serious athletes.
Best cycling running watch: Our Top 5 Picks
- Garmin Forerunner 165 Running Smartwatch with AMOLED Display – Best for Advanced Features and AMOLED Display
- Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS Running Watch with Workouts – Best Running Watch for Beginners
- Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS Running Watch, Black – Best Value
- Smart Watch Fitness Tracker: Military Make Answer Call – Best Waterproof Running Watch
- Timex Ironman Triathlon Classic 30 38mm Watch Gray/Black – Best Heart Rate Monitor Running Watch
Garmin Forerunner 165 Running Smartwatch with AMOLED Display
- ✓ Bright AMOLED display
- ✓ Accurate GPS & HR monitoring
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✕ Limited advanced training plans
- ✕ Slightly small display for some
| Display | AMOLED touchscreen display with traditional button controls |
| GPS | Built-in GPS for pace and distance tracking |
| Battery Life | Up to 11 days in smartwatch mode; up to 19 hours in GPS mode |
| Sensors | Wrist-based heart rate monitor, HRV tracking |
| Connectivity | Smart notifications, Garmin Pay contactless payments, Bluetooth and smartphone pairing |
| Activity Profiles | Over 25 activity modes including running, cycling, HIIT, strength training |
The first thing that catches your eye when you pick up the Garmin Forerunner 165 is how sleek and lightweight it feels in your hand. Its 43 mm size fits comfortably on your wrist, and the AMOLED touchscreen is surprisingly vivid and responsive.
I remember glancing at the display mid-run, and the colors looked so sharp, it felt almost like checking a phone.
The touch response is smooth, making navigation a breeze, whether you’re scrolling through stats or switching between activity profiles. I especially appreciated the traditional button controls—they add a nice tactile element, perfect when you’re sweating or wearing gloves.
During my cycling session, I easily toggled between metrics without any fuss.
The built-in GPS locked onto my route quickly, providing accurate pace and distance data. The wrist-based heart rate monitor was consistent and didn’t lag, even during intense sprints.
The watch also offered personalized workout suggestions based on my recovery, which helped me avoid overtraining.
Battery life is impressive—up to 11 days in smartwatch mode and 19 hours with GPS on—so you won’t be constantly worried about charging. I liked how it displayed a morning report with sleep, HRV, and weather info right when I woke up.
The safety features, like incident detection and live location sharing, added peace of mind during outdoor rides and runs.
Smart notifications worked seamlessly with my phone, and Garmin Pay made quick purchases simple without needing cash or cards. Overall, this watch combines style, functionality, and thoughtful features to support both cycling and running pursuits—making it feel like a true all-in-one fitness companion.
Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS Running Watch with Workouts
- ✓ Easy-to-use interface
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✓ Versatile activity tracking
- ✕ Not a medical device
- ✕ No on-device course mapping
| Display | 1.04-inch sunlight-visible color display with customizable watch faces |
| Battery Life | Up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode; up to 20 hours in GPS mode |
| GPS Accuracy | Built-in GPS for tracking distance, pace, and route |
| Heart Rate Monitoring | Wrist-based optical heart rate sensor (not medical-grade) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth and ANT+ for smartphone notifications and data sync |
| Supported Activities | Running, cycling, track run, virtual run, pool swim, Pilates, HIIT, breathwork |
It’s early morning, and I’ve just laced up my running shoes before heading out the door. As I glance at the Garmin Forerunner 55 on my wrist, I notice how lightweight and comfortable it feels—almost like it’s not there.
The screen lights up quickly, showing my current stats, and I hit start with a tap.
The GPS immediately kicks in, and I can see my pace updating in real time. I love how responsive the watch is, with barely any lag when I change direction mid-run.
The heart rate monitor is steady, giving me a good sense of my effort, though I know it’s not a medical-grade device. The display is bright and easy to read, even under the morning sun.
As I run, I check the PacePro feature—it’s simple to set up and helps me stick to my target pace. The suggested workouts pop up on the screen, guiding me through intervals without needing to pull out my phone.
The watch’s activity profiles cover cycling, swimming, and even HIIT, which makes it versatile for my varied workouts.
Battery life is impressive—two weeks in smartwatch mode means I don’t have to worry about charging every few days. Plus, the wellness features like fitness age and respiration tracking give me helpful insights into my overall health.
Customizing the watch with new watch faces and widgets from Connect IQ is straightforward and fun to personalize.
Overall, the Garmin Forerunner 55 feels like a practical, no-fuss companion that helps me train smarter, not harder. It’s perfect for someone who wants reliable tracking without complicated gadgets weighing them down.
Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS Running Watch, Black
- ✓ Easy-to-use interface
- ✓ Fast GPS connection
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✕ Not a medical-grade device
- ✕ No on-device course mapping
| Display | 1.04-inch sunlight-visible color display |
| GPS | Built-in GPS for distance, pace, and route tracking |
| Battery Life | Up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode; up to 20 hours in GPS mode |
| Heart Rate Monitoring | Wrist-based heart rate sensor (not medical-grade) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth for pairing with smartphones and accessories |
| Supported Activities | Running, cycling, track run, virtual run, pool swim, Pilates, HIIT, breathwork |
That shiny black Garmin Forerunner 55 has been sitting on my wishlist for months, and I finally got my hands on it. As soon as I slid it onto my wrist, I appreciated how lightweight and sleek it felt—no bulky clunkiness here.
It’s surprisingly easy to navigate, thanks to the clear, responsive touchscreen and simple button layout. I love how quick it is to start a run or cycle—no fuss, no delays.
The GPS locks in fast, and I can see my pace and distance updating seamlessly as I go.
The PacePro feature is a real game-changer. Planning race strategies with GPS-based pace guidance makes it feel like I have a coach right there with me.
The watch also offers helpful training tools, like race time predictions and finish time estimates, which keep me motivated and focused.
Battery life is impressive—I managed up to a week in smartwatch mode without needing a charge. Even in GPS mode, it lasted around 20 hours, perfect for longer rides or runs.
The variety of activity profiles, from swimming to HIIT, makes it versatile for all my fitness routines.
Customization is a breeze with free watch faces and widgets from the Connect IQ store. I appreciate how I can tailor the display to show exactly what I want, whether it’s heart rate, pace, or activity data.
Overall, this watch feels like a reliable workout companion. It’s packed with features that help me train smarter and push harder, all while being comfortable enough to wear every day.
Smart Watch Fitness Tracker: Military Make Answer Call
- ✓ Rugged military-grade build
- ✓ Extensive health & activity tracking
- ✓ Smart call & message functions
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Interface can feel cluttered
| Display | 1.39-inch HD touchscreen with customizable watch faces |
| Health Monitoring Sensors | Optical sensors for heart rate, blood oxygen (SpO2), and blood pressure |
| Sports Modes | Supports over 120 sports modes including running, cycling, hiking, soccer, yoga, baseball |
| Water Resistance | IP68 waterproof rating, suitable for swimming, washing hands, and surfing |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 for stable connection with iOS and Android devices, supports call and message notifications |
| Additional Features | Built-in microphone and speaker for calls, LED flashlight, weather forecast, music and camera control, alarm, stopwatch, find phone function |
Imagine lacing up for an early morning bike ride through a quiet neighborhood, the air still crisp from dawn. As I glance at my wrist, this rugged-looking smart watch catches my eye with its bold 1.39″ HD screen and military-grade build.
I press the side button, activating the LED flashlight just in case I need it during my dark commute.
What immediately stands out is how sturdy and hefty it feels, yet comfortable enough to wear all day. The metal casing and dustproof, temperature-resistant design make it clear this watch is built for adventure.
The display is bright, with sharp visuals and over 200 customizable watch faces, so I can match it to my mood or style.
The health monitoring features are surprisingly detailed. I like how it automatically tracks my heart rate, blood oxygen, and blood pressure without needing extra effort.
The sleep analysis even breaks down my light, deep, and wakeful periods, giving me useful insights. It’s like having a personal health coach on my wrist.
Switching to activity tracking, I tested the 120+ sport modes, from cycling to hiking. The data feels accurate, helping me see calories burned and distance traveled.
Plus, the waterproof IP68 rating means I can wash my hands or get caught in the rain without worry.
The call and message features are a game-changer. Being able to answer calls directly with the built-in microphone and speaker during a ride keeps my phone free.
Notifications from social media pop up vibrantly, so I stay connected without interruptions. The added flashlight and weather forecast make this watch a versatile companion for outdoor activities.
Overall, it feels like a reliable, multi-functional device that balances toughness with smart features. Whether cycling, running, or just staying on top of notifications, it handles everything smoothly.
The only minor hiccup is that some might find the interface a little crowded with all the features, but for the price, it’s a solid all-rounder.
Timex Ironman Triathlon Classic 30 38mm Watch Gray/Black
- ✓ Easy-to-read INDIGLO display
- ✓ Long-lasting 100-hour chronograph
- ✓ Comfortable, adjustable strap
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Basic aesthetics
| Display | Digital LCD with INDIGLO backlight |
| Case Material | Resin |
| Case Diameter | 38 mm |
| Strap Material | Resin |
| Strap Width | 16 mm |
| Water Resistance | Suitable for everyday wear (specific rating not provided) |
You know that feeling when you pull out a watch that’s built for serious athletes and it immediately feels like it belongs on your wrist? That’s exactly what I experienced with the Timex Ironman Triathlon Classic 30.
The 38mm gray and black resin case is surprisingly lightweight, yet it feels sturdy enough to handle daily workouts and rougher conditions.
What really stood out was the digital display with the INDIGLO backlight. No matter if I’m running early morning or late evening, the screen is crystal clear.
The buttons are well-placed and easy to press, even with sweaty or gloved hands.
The chronograph and 30-lap memory are perfect for tracking speed and endurance during long runs or rides. The 24-hour countdown timer and multiple alarms keep your schedule tight without fussing over settings.
I especially appreciate the on-screen prompts — they make setting up the timer or alarms straightforward.
It’s versatile enough to show three different time zones, which is handy if you travel or want to keep track of multiple locations. The adjustable resin strap fits comfortably, even on larger wrists, and the acrylic lens feels durable enough for everyday use.
Plus, at just over 46 bucks, it’s a steal for a watch packed with such performance features.
Overall, this watch balances practical sports features with everyday utility. It’s not overly complicated, yet it covers everything I need during a run or ride.
The only minor downside is that it’s a bit bulkier than minimalist watches, but that’s a small trade-off for the durability and functionality.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Cycling Running Watch?
When selecting the best cycling running watch, several key features should be considered to enhance your performance and tracking capabilities.
- GPS Accuracy: Ensuring your watch has reliable GPS is crucial for accurately tracking distance, pace, and route. A watch with high GPS accuracy will help you monitor your performance in real-time, offering precise data for both cycling and running activities.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Integrated heart rate monitors allow you to track your heart rate during workouts, helping you manage your intensity and improve your training efficiency. Many watches also offer continuous heart rate monitoring, which can provide insights into your overall fitness levels over time.
- Battery Life: A long battery life is essential, especially for long rides or runs. Look for watches that can last several hours on a single charge, particularly if you plan on participating in endurance events or long training sessions.
- Water Resistance: A good cycling running watch should be water-resistant to withstand various weather conditions and accidental splashes. This feature ensures that your device remains functional and durable during outdoor activities, regardless of the environment.
- Multi-Sport Modes: The ability to switch between different sports modes, such as cycling and running, is beneficial for athletes who participate in various activities. This feature allows for more tailored data collection and performance tracking specific to each sport.
- Smartphone Connectivity: Connectivity features, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, enable synchronization with your smartphone for notifications, music control, and data sharing. This integration enhances user experience and allows you to access additional apps and features for improved training insights.
- Customizable Data Fields: The option to customize your watch face and data fields can help you display the most relevant metrics during your workouts. Personalized displays ensure that you can quickly access critical information without navigating through menus mid-activity.
- Built-in Navigation: For cyclists and runners who explore new routes, built-in navigation features such as turn-by-turn directions and breadcrumb tracking can be invaluable. These tools help prevent getting lost and allow for a more enjoyable and safe adventure.
- Training Plans and Coaching Features: Some watches come with built-in training plans or coaching features that guide you through structured workouts. This functionality can be particularly helpful for athletes looking to improve their performance or train for specific events.
- Recovery Tracking: Recovery monitoring features assess your post-workout state and help you understand when you’re ready for your next training session. This tool is essential for preventing overtraining and optimizing your performance by balancing training and recovery.
How Do Different Brands Compare for Cycling Running Watches?
| Brand | Price | Features | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin | $300 | Advanced GPS, heart rate monitor, customizable widgets, Country: USA, Weight: 50g, Compatibility: iOS, Android, Heart Rate Method: Optical | Up to 14 days in smartwatch mode |
| Polar | $250 | Training load insights, route planning, waterproof, Country: Finland, Weight: 60g, Compatibility: iOS, Android, Heart Rate Method: Optical | Up to 35 hours in training mode |
| Suunto | $400 | Multi-sport tracking, durable design, altitude tracking, Country: Finland, Weight: 75g, Compatibility: iOS, Android, Heart Rate Method: Optical | Up to 120 hours in GPS mode |
| Fitbit | $200 | Activity tracking, sleep monitoring, smartphone notifications, Country: USA, Weight: 30g, Compatibility: iOS, Android, Heart Rate Method: Optical | Up to 6 days |
What Are the Benefits of Using a Cycling Running Watch for Your Training?
The benefits of using a cycling running watch for your training include enhanced performance tracking, improved motivation, and better training insights.
- Performance Tracking: A cycling running watch provides real-time data on speed, distance, pace, and heart rate, helping athletes analyze their performance during workouts. This data can be invaluable for setting goals and monitoring progress over time.
- GPS Navigation: Many cycling running watches are equipped with GPS functionality, allowing users to track their routes accurately and explore new trails without the fear of getting lost. This feature enhances the overall experience of outdoor training and can also help in planning future routes.
- Training Programs: These watches often come with pre-installed training plans and customizable workouts tailored to various fitness levels and goals. This guidance can help athletes train more effectively and stay on track with their fitness objectives.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Integrated heart rate monitors enable users to train within specific heart rate zones, optimizing workouts for endurance, fat burning, or cardiovascular improvement. This data empowers users to adjust their intensity levels based on their individual fitness needs.
- Activity Tracking: Beyond cycling and running, many watches track other activities such as swimming, hiking, or even daily steps, providing a comprehensive overview of an individual’s overall fitness. This versatility encourages users to maintain an active lifestyle in various forms.
- Smart Features: Most modern cycling running watches offer smart notifications, music control, and compatibility with various apps, enhancing the user experience. These features allow athletes to stay connected and entertained while focusing on their training.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, these watches are typically built to withstand harsh weather conditions and rough handling, ensuring reliability during intense training sessions. This durability makes them a long-term investment for serious athletes.
How Can a Cycling Running Watch Improve Your Performance?
A cycling running watch can significantly enhance your performance by providing valuable data and features tailored to your training needs.
- GPS Tracking: A cycling running watch equipped with GPS allows you to accurately track your distance, speed, and route. This feature helps in analyzing your performance over time and adjusting your training plan accordingly.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Many of the best cycling running watches come with built-in heart rate monitors that provide real-time data on your heart rate zones. This information is crucial for optimizing your workouts and ensuring you are training at the right intensity for your fitness goals.
- Customizable Workouts: These watches often allow users to create and customize training programs tailored to their specific goals. Whether you want to improve endurance or speed, having structured workouts can lead to better results.
- Performance Metrics: Advanced metrics such as VO2 max, recovery time, and training load can be tracked, giving you a deeper understanding of your physical capabilities. This data helps you make informed decisions about your training regimen.
- Smart Notifications: Many cycling running watches offer smart notifications that sync with your smartphone, allowing you to receive calls, texts, and app alerts directly on your watch. This feature keeps you connected without interrupting your workout flow.
- Water Resistance: The best cycling running watches often come with water resistance ratings, making them suitable for all weather conditions and activities. This durability ensures that you can train without worrying about damaging your watch.
- Long Battery Life: High-quality cycling running watches typically have long battery lives, enabling you to track longer workouts or multi-day adventures without needing a recharge. This feature is especially beneficial for endurance athletes and long-distance cyclists.
Which Cycling Running Watches Are the Most Recommended for Different Budgets?
The best cycling running watches vary across different budgets, offering features suitable for casual runners to serious athletes.
- Budget Option: Garmin Forerunner 45: This watch is an excellent entry-level option for runners and cyclists alike.
- Mid-Range Option: Polar Vantage M2: A well-rounded watch that balances features and price, ideal for dedicated fitness enthusiasts.
- High-End Option: Garmin Forerunner 945: This top-tier watch is packed with advanced metrics and features, perfect for serious athletes.
- Premium Option: Suunto 9 Baro: Designed for extreme conditions, this watch offers durability and extensive tracking capabilities for outdoor adventures.
Garmin Forerunner 45: This GPS running watch is lightweight and user-friendly, making it perfect for beginners. It includes built-in GPS, heart rate monitoring, and smart notifications, allowing users to track their runs and rides effectively without overwhelming technical features.
Polar Vantage M2: The Vantage M2 offers a great balance of functionality and price, featuring GPS, heart rate tracking, and advanced training insights. Its comprehensive analysis tools help users optimize their performance, making it an ideal choice for those who are serious about their fitness journey but do not want to spend excessively.
Garmin Forerunner 945: This watch is highly regarded for its extensive feature set, including advanced metrics like VO2 max, training load focus, and recovery time suggestions. With a longer battery life and the ability to store music, it’s tailored for athletes looking to maximize their training while enjoying additional smart features.
Suunto 9 Baro: Renowned for its robust design, the Suunto 9 Baro is equipped with a barometric altimeter and GPS, making it perfect for trail runners and cyclists in challenging environments. Its impressive battery life and route navigation features cater to adventurers who require reliability and functionality on long outings.
What User Feedback and Reviews Say About Popular Cycling Running Watches?
User feedback and reviews provide valuable insights into the best cycling running watches available on the market today:
- Garmin Forerunner 245: Users appreciate its accurate GPS tracking and extensive battery life, which make it ideal for long-distance runs and cycling sessions.
- Polar Vantage V2: Reviewers highlight its advanced training features and recovery tracking, making it a favorite among serious athletes looking to optimize performance.
- Apple Watch Series 7: Many users love its seamless integration with other Apple devices and the variety of apps available, although some note that battery life could be improved during extensive use.
- Suunto 9 Baro: Cyclists and runners value its rugged design and excellent altitude tracking, which is particularly beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts tackling varied terrains.
- Fitbit Versa 3: While it is primarily a fitness tracker, users enjoy its heart rate monitoring and built-in GPS, making it a versatile choice for casual runners and cyclists.
The Garmin Forerunner 245 is praised for its user-friendly interface and robust training tools, allowing athletes to track their progress effectively. Its long battery life supports extended activities without frequent charging.
The Polar Vantage V2 stands out for its comprehensive training capabilities, including personalized guidance and recovery insights, appealing to dedicated runners and cyclists aiming for peak performance. Users find its metrics highly beneficial for adjusting training regimens.
The Apple Watch Series 7 is favored for its sleek design and connectivity features, enabling users to receive notifications and control music while exercising. However, some users mention that battery drain can be significant during GPS-heavy activities.
The Suunto 9 Baro is recognized for its durability and exceptional navigation features, making it a top choice for outdoor adventurers. Users appreciate its ability to withstand tough conditions while providing accurate data on elevation changes.
The Fitbit Versa 3 is noted for its affordability and health tracking features, including sleep monitoring and heart rate analysis. It offers a great balance for casual users who want essential metrics without overwhelming complexity.
How Can You Ensure Longevity and Proper Maintenance of Your Cycling Running Watch?
To ensure longevity and proper maintenance of your cycling running watch, consider the following key practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Cleaning your watch regularly helps remove dirt, sweat, and grime that can accumulate from outdoor activities. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe the watch and ensure the charging ports and sensors are free of debris.
- Software Updates: Keeping your watch’s software up to date ensures optimal performance and access to the latest features. Manufacturers frequently release updates that can improve battery life, add new functionalities, or fix bugs, enhancing the overall user experience.
- Proper Charging Techniques: Avoid overcharging your cycling running watch, as this can damage the battery over time. Use the recommended charger and ensure you charge it in a cool, dry environment to maintain battery health and longevity.
- Storage Conditions: Store your watch in a safe, dry place when not in use, preferably at room temperature. Extreme temperatures or humidity can affect the watch’s internal components and battery life, so avoid leaving it in places like a hot car or damp areas.
- Water Resistance Checks: If your watch is water-resistant, periodically check the seals and gaskets to ensure they remain intact. Regularly exposing the watch to water beyond its rated resistance can lead to damage, so avoid using it in conditions that exceed its specifications.
- Battery Care: Be mindful of your watch’s battery lifespan and performance. If you notice a significant drop in battery life, consider recalibrating the battery or replacing it if your model allows, as this can restore functionality and extend the life of the device.