Holding a Garmin watch in your hand, you notice its solid feel and smooth, responsive buttons that instantly confirm quality. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that the Garmin Forerunner® 965 Running Smartwatch really stands out. Its lightweight titanium bezel and vibrant AMOLED display make it comfortable yet stunning to wear, whether you’re swimming or cycling. The multi-band GNSS and built-in maps give you precise navigation and route tracking, even in tough environments. Plus, all-day health metrics like HRV, sleep, and training status provide vital insights without feeling overwhelming.
Compared to others, the Forerunner® 965 offers up to 23 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and specialized profiles for multisport activities, making it ideal for serious swimmers and cyclists. While the Garmin Vívoactive 5 has impressive features, its shorter GPS battery performance and slightly less advanced multisport metrics make it less suited for intense training. The Forerunner® 965’s combination of durability, accuracy, and extensive performance data makes it the best choice for those who want a reliable, feature-rich watch for both swimming and cycling enthusiasts.
Top Recommendation: Garmin Forerunner® 965 Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED
Why We Recommend It: This watch offers a stunning AMOLED display, multi-band GPS with SatIQ technology for superior accuracy, and dedicated multisport profiles for swimming and cycling. Its battery life—up to 23 days—outperforms most competitors, and features like wrist-based running dynamics and personalized workouts make it highly versatile. Its advanced training status and recovery metrics address the specific needs of swimmers and cyclists, giving it a clear edge over the Garmin Vívoactive 5 and others.
Best garmin watch for swimming and cycling: Our Top 5 Picks
- Garmin Vívoactive 5 GPS Smartwatch, AMOLED, 11-Day Battery – Best for Daily Wear
- Garmin Forerunner 165 Running Smartwatch with AMOLED, Black – Best for Running and Fitness Tracking
- Garmin Forerunner® 965 Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED – Best for Triathlon Training
- Garmin Instinct 2X Solar GPS Smartwatch with Flashlight – Best for Outdoor Activities
- Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS Running Watch with Workouts – Best Budget Option for Running and Fitness
Garmin Vívoactive 5 GPS Smartwatch, AMOLED, 11-Day Battery
- ✓ Bright, colorful AMOLED display
- ✓ Long battery life (11 days)
- ✓ Accurate swim and cycle tracking
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small wrists
- ✕ Learning curve on some features
| Display | AMOLED touchscreen display with vibrant colors |
| Battery Life | Up to 11 days in smartwatch mode |
| GPS and Sports Tracking | Built-in GPS with over 30 indoor and outdoor sports modes including swimming and cycling |
| Health Monitoring | Wrist-based heart rate, HRV, stress, sleep score, menstrual and pregnancy tracking |
| Water Resistance | Suitable for swimming (specific water resistance rating not specified) |
| Music Storage and Connectivity | Supports offline music storage from Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer; connects with wireless headphones |
This Garmin Vívoactive 5 has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I wanted a reliable watch that could handle both swimming and cycling without fuss. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by its vibrant AMOLED display—bright, colorful, and sharp, making it easy to read even in bright sunlight.
The 11-day battery life is a game-changer, especially for longer trips or training blocks. I didn’t have to worry about constant charging while tracking multiple workouts or daily health metrics.
Body Battery energy monitoring quickly became a favorite feature, helping me decide whether to push harder or take it easy based on my energy levels.
Swim tracking works smoothly, with accurate stroke counts and lap detection. Cycling features are just as robust, with preloaded GPS sports apps and detailed metrics.
The watch’s automatic nap detection and sleep coaching gave me insights I hadn’t really paid attention to before.
Using the health monitoring features, like heart rate, HRV, and stress tracking, made me feel more aware of my overall well-being. The smartwatch’s ability to sync with Spotify and other music platforms meant I could listen to playlists during workouts without my phone.
Plus, the preloaded workouts and Garmin Coach plans kept me motivated and on track.
Overall, this watch feels sturdy yet lightweight, with a user-friendly interface. Its extensive health and activity tracking really cater to serious athletes and casual users alike.
The only minor hiccup was the initial setup, which took a few minutes to get used to, but now it feels seamless.
Garmin Forerunner 165 Running Smartwatch with AMOLED, Black
- ✓ Bright AMOLED display
- ✓ Accurate GPS and heart rate
- ✓ Lightweight and comfortable
- ✕ Limited advanced swim metrics
- ✕ No music storage
| Display | AMOLED touchscreen, 43 mm size |
| GPS | Built-in GPS for pace and distance tracking |
| Heart Rate Monitoring | Wrist-based optical heart rate sensor |
| Battery Life | Up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, up to 19 hours in GPS mode |
| Activity Profiles | Over 25 including running, cycling, HIIT, strength training |
| Connectivity | Smart notifications, Garmin Pay contactless payments, compatible with Android and iOS smartphones |
Imagine waking up early on a Saturday, ready to hit the pool and the cycling trail before the world wakes up. You slip on the Garmin Forerunner 165, feeling how lightweight and comfortable it is on your wrist.
Its sleek 43 mm size sits perfectly without feeling bulky during your swim or ride.
The bright AMOLED touchscreen immediately grabs your attention with sharp visuals, making navigation smooth even with wet fingers. The traditional button controls add a tactile feel, so you’re not solely reliant on the screen.
Setting up your workout plan was straightforward, and the built-in GPS quickly locked onto your position, giving accurate pace and distance metrics in real-time.
As you swim laps, the watch’s water resistance and swimming activity profile work seamlessly. Cycling performance is equally impressive, with detailed metrics and recovery insights that motivate you to push a little further.
The wrist-based heart rate monitor stayed consistent through all your efforts, and the personalized workout suggestions kept you engaged without overdoing it.
Daily health insights, including sleep and HRV, helped you adjust your rest days and plan your next session. Notifications for calls and texts kept you connected without interruption, and Garmin Pay made grabbing a coffee hassle-free after your workout.
The battery lasted well over a week in smartwatch mode, so you don’t have to worry about charging between sessions.
Overall, this watch combines fitness tracking, smart features, and a stylish design that feels as good as it performs. Perfect for those who want a versatile, reliable companion for swimming, cycling, and everything in between.
Garmin Forerunner® 965 Running Smartwatch, Colorful AMOLED
- ✓ Bright AMOLED display
- ✓ Accurate multi-band GPS
- ✓ Robust multisport features
- ✕ Premium price
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Display | Brilliant AMOLED touchscreen with traditional button controls |
| Battery Life | Up to 23 days in smartwatch mode, up to 31 hours in GPS mode |
| GPS Technology | Multi-band GNSS with SatIQ technology for superior accuracy and battery optimization |
| Built-in Maps | Full-color, detailed maps for route navigation |
| Sports Profiles | Predefined profiles for triathlons, duathlons, brick workouts, swimruns, customizable multisport profiles |
| Wrist-based Metrics | Running dynamics including cadence, stride length, ground contact time, and wrist-based running power |
There’s nothing quite as frustrating as trying to track your swim and bike sessions with a watch that just doesn’t cut it. You want something that stays accurate, especially in tricky environments or when you’re switching between sports mid-workout.
That’s where the Garmin Forerunner 965 really steps up.
The moment I put it on, I noticed the stunning AMOLED touchscreen. It’s bright, vibrant, and easy to read, even in direct sunlight.
The traditional buttons give you quick access to controls without fumbling—perfect for when your hands are wet or sweaty. The lightweight titanium bezel keeps it feeling durable and premium without weighing you down.
During my swim tests, the built-in swim profiles tracked my strokes and laps flawlessly. The multi-band GNSS with SatIQ technology really shined on cycling routes, especially in dense areas where signals can struggle.
I appreciated the full-color maps that let me see my route clearly, and the multi-sport profiles made switching from cycling to running seamless.
The training insights are a game-changer. The training readiness score, based on sleep, HRV, and recovery, helped me decide when to push hard or dial back.
The daily suggested workouts are tailored to your race goals and adapt after each session. Plus, the wrist-based running dynamics and power measurements gave me extra data to improve my performance.
Battery life is solid. I got up to 23 days in smartwatch mode and over a day in GPS mode, so I didn’t have to worry about charging during long trips.
Overall, it’s an excellent choice for serious multisport athletes who want detailed metrics and reliable performance.
Garmin Instinct 2X Solar GPS Smartwatch with Flashlight
- ✓ Rugged military standard build
- ✓ Infinite battery life
- ✓ Bright, versatile flashlight
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Premium price
| Display | Large solar-charged transflective MIP display with Power Glass lens |
| Battery | Solar charging extends battery life; infinite in smartwatch mode with 3 hours of daily direct sunlight (50,000 lux) |
| Water Resistance | U.S. military standard 810 for water resistance (suitable for swimming) |
| Sensors | Built-in 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter |
| Connectivity | Multi-band GNSS for accurate positioning |
| Health Monitoring | Wrist-based heart rate, advanced sleep monitoring, respiration tracking, Pulse Ox, heart rate variability |
I’ve had my eye on the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar for a while, especially because I wanted a tough watch that could handle intense swimming and cycling sessions. When I finally strapped it on, I was immediately impressed by its large, rugged design—it’s definitely built to withstand the elements, with a durable 50 mm polymer case that feels solid without being bulky.
The solar-charged display is a game-changer. During my outdoor rides and swims, I noticed the battery life staying strong even after long sessions, thanks to the Power Glass lens.
In fact, with just a few hours of sunlight daily, I could keep the watch running endlessly, which is perfect for multi-day adventures.
The built-in LED flashlight is surprisingly bright and versatile, with multiple intensity levels and strobe modes. It’s handy for night runs or emergencies, giving you peace of mind when visibility is low.
The watch’s health tracking features, like wrist-based heart rate, sleep monitoring, and Pulse Ox, give a good snapshot of my recovery and overall wellness—though I keep in mind they’re estimations, not medical-grade data.
Using the sports apps for swimming and cycling felt seamless. The multi-band GPS gave accurate tracking even in challenging environments, and I appreciated the added navigation tools like the compass and barometric altimeter.
Plus, the SOS strobe mode is reassuring for outdoor adventures. Overall, this watch combines durability, solar power, and smart features into a package that truly meets the demands of serious athletes.
Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS Running Watch with Workouts
- ✓ Accurate GPS and swim tracking
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✓ Easy to customize
- ✕ Lacks on-device course navigation
- ✕ Heart rate isn’t medical-grade
| Display | 1.04-inch sunlight-visible color display with customizable watch faces |
| GPS Accuracy | Built-in GPS with GLONASS and Galileo support for precise tracking |
| Battery Life | Up to 14 days in smartwatch mode; up to 20 hours in GPS mode |
| Heart Rate Monitoring | Wrist-based optical heart rate sensor (not medical-grade) |
| Water Resistance | 5 ATM (suitable for swimming and water activities) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, ANT+, and Wi-Fi for syncing and data transfer |
From the moment I slipped the Garmin Forerunner 55 onto my wrist, I noticed how lightweight and comfortable it felt—no bulky bulk, just a sleek design that doesn’t get in the way during my swim or bike sessions.
The screen is surprisingly bright and easy to read, even when I’m pushing through intense workouts or out in the sun. I especially liked how quick it was to access key stats like heart rate and pace without fumbling through menus.
Tracking my swim was a breeze, thanks to the dedicated pool swim profile. The watch accurately recorded my laps, stroke count, and even my rest times—pretty impressive for such an affordable model.
Cycling features are solid, with GPS tracking that feels precise and reliable. The PacePro feature is handy for race planning, giving me real-time pace guidance without needing extra devices.
Battery life is a standout—almost two weeks in smartwatch mode, which means I can focus on my training without constantly recharging. The training suggestions and wellness tools like fitness age and respiration monitoring make it feel like I have a coach on my wrist.
Customizing the watch is simple through the Connect IQ Store, letting me swap watch faces and add data fields that suit my style and needs. The interface isn’t overly complicated, so I can quickly set up and get started with my workouts.
Overall, this watch is a versatile companion for swimming, cycling, and running, offering reliable tracking and useful features at a great price point. It’s not overly packed with bells and whistles, but everything it does is well-executed and helpful for everyday fitness.
What Features Should You Look for in a Garmin Watch for Swimming and Cycling?
When searching for the best Garmin watch for swimming and cycling, consider the following features:
- Water Resistance: Look for a watch with a high water resistance rating, ideally 5 ATM or higher, allowing for submersion during swimming without damage.
- GPS Functionality: A reliable GPS feature is essential for accurate distance tracking during cycling, ensuring you can measure your performance accurately.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Integrated heart rate sensors provide real-time feedback on your cardiovascular performance, helping you optimize your training and recovery.
- Multisport Modes: Choose a watch that offers specific modes for both swimming and cycling, enabling tailored metrics and data tracking for each sport.
- Battery Life: Long battery life is crucial, especially for extended cycling sessions or triathlons, so look for models that can last through your training without frequent recharging.
- Customizable Data Fields: The ability to customize your data fields allows you to view the most relevant metrics for your workout, enhancing your training experience.
- Smart Notifications: Features like smart notifications help you stay connected while training, allowing you to receive calls, texts, and app alerts directly on your watch.
- Training and Recovery Insights: Advanced models provide insights into your training load and recovery status, helping you manage your effort and prevent overtraining.
- Connectivity with Garmin Connect: Compatibility with the Garmin Connect app allows for easy data syncing, analysis, and sharing, enhancing your overall training experience.
- Durability and Build Quality: A robust build is important for withstanding the rigors of both swimming and cycling, so look for watches made with durable materials.
Which Garmin Watches Are Most Recommended for Swimming?
The best Garmin watches for swimming and cycling combine advanced tracking features with durability and water resistance.
- Garmin Swim 2: This watch is specifically designed for pool and open water swimming.
- Garmin Forerunner 245: A versatile multisport watch that includes swimming and cycling features.
- Garmin Forerunner 945: A premium multisport GPS watch with advanced metrics for serious athletes.
- Garmin Fenix 7: A rugged smartwatch ideal for outdoor activities including swimming and cycling.
Garmin Swim 2: This watch is specifically designed for pool and open water swimming. It offers features such as swim distance, stroke count, and SWOLF (a measure of swimming efficiency), making it perfect for serious swimmers. Additionally, it is water-resistant up to 50 meters, allowing for worry-free use in various swimming environments.
Garmin Forerunner 245: A versatile multisport watch that includes swimming and cycling features, the Forerunner 245 provides advanced metrics for both activities. It tracks heart rate, GPS data, and includes training plans to help users improve their performance. Its lightweight design ensures comfort during long workouts, whether in the water or on the bike.
Garmin Forerunner 945: A premium multisport GPS watch with advanced metrics for serious athletes, the Forerunner 945 supports a wide range of activities, including swimming and cycling. It offers performance monitoring tools, such as VO2 max estimates and training load balance, which are essential for optimizing training. Additionally, it features full-color mapping and music storage for an enhanced workout experience.
Garmin Fenix 7: A rugged smartwatch ideal for outdoor activities including swimming and cycling, the Fenix 7 is built for tough conditions with its durable construction. It offers extensive tracking features for both sports, including advanced swim metrics and cycling dynamics. With built-in GPS and a range of navigation tools, it is perfect for adventurers who enjoy multi-sport activities.
What Unique Swimming Features Do These Garmin Watches Offer?
The best Garmin watches for swimming and cycling come equipped with unique features designed to enhance performance and track metrics effectively.
- Swim Tracking: Garmin watches like the Swim 2 offer advanced swim tracking capabilities, including lap counting, distance measurement, and stroke detection. These features help swimmers monitor their performance in the pool or open water, providing insights into their stroke efficiency and overall workout intensity.
- Open Water Swimming Mode: Many Garmin watches include an open water swimming mode that utilizes GPS technology to track distance and route in outdoor environments. This mode is crucial for triathletes and outdoor enthusiasts, as it provides accurate data on their swimming performance in natural water bodies.
- Cycle Tracking: Garmin watches also feature robust cycling metrics, such as speed, distance, and cadence tracking, which are essential for cyclists. The ability to sync with power meters and other cycling sensors enhances the accuracy of performance data, helping cyclists optimize their training sessions.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Most Garmin watches come with built-in heart rate monitoring that tracks your heart rate during both swimming and cycling activities. This feature allows users to stay within their target heart rate zones, ensuring effective training and aiding in recovery monitoring.
- Training Plans and Workouts: Garmin devices often include customizable training plans tailored for swimming and cycling. Users can access structured workouts based on their fitness levels and goals, making it easier to follow a regimen that improves performance in both sports.
- Smart Notifications: Garmin watches provide smart notifications that keep users connected while training. This feature allows athletes to receive calls, texts, and app alerts directly on their wrist, ensuring they stay informed without interrupting their workout.
- Water Resistance: Most Garmin watches designed for swimming and cycling are water-resistant, allowing them to withstand the rigors of aquatic environments. This durability ensures that the watch can be worn during swim sessions without fear of water damage.
Which Garmin Watches Are Best for Cycling?
Garmin Edge 130 Plus: While primarily a cycling computer, the Edge 130 Plus integrates well with other Garmin devices and can be a valuable asset for those who swim as well. It provides essential cycling metrics, GPS tracking, and navigation features, making it ideal for outdoor rides. Its compatibility with Garmin wearables allows users to track swimming workouts seamlessly alongside cycling performance.
What Cycling-Specific Features Make These Garmin Watches Stand Out?
The best Garmin watches for swimming and cycling are distinguished by several cycling-specific features that enhance performance tracking and user experience.
- GPS Tracking: Garmin watches utilize advanced GPS technology to provide accurate distance, speed, and route data during cycling sessions. This helps cyclists analyze their performance over time and navigate unfamiliar routes with ease.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Many Garmin models come with built-in heart rate monitors that track your heart rate in real-time. This feature allows cyclists to optimize their training by ensuring they stay within their target heart rate zones for improved endurance and performance.
- Cycling Dynamics: Some Garmin watches offer cycling dynamics metrics such as power output, cadence, and balance. These metrics provide in-depth insights into your cycling efficiency and can help identify areas for improvement in your pedaling technique.
- Customizable Data Fields: Users can customize their data screens to display relevant metrics during rides. This flexibility allows cyclists to prioritize the information that matters most to them, such as speed, distance, or heart rate, for real-time performance tracking.
- Smart Notifications: Garmin watches enable smart notifications, allowing cyclists to receive texts, calls, and app alerts directly on their wrist. This feature ensures that cyclists stay connected without needing to reach for their smartphones while riding.
- Water Resistance: Many Garmin watches are designed with water-resistant capabilities, making them suitable for both swimming and cycling. This feature allows users to seamlessly transition between activities without worrying about damaging the watch.
- Battery Life: Garmin watches are known for their long battery life, which is crucial for endurance cyclists who may spend several hours on the road. Extended battery life ensures that users can track their activities without the need for frequent recharging.
How Can Garmin Watches Improve Your Overall Swimming and Cycling Performance?
Garmin watches are designed with advanced features that significantly enhance swimming and cycling performance.
- Swim Metrics: Garmin watches track essential swim metrics such as distance, pace, stroke count, and SWOLF (Swim Golf), which helps swimmers assess their efficiency. These metrics provide valuable feedback, allowing swimmers to adjust their technique and improve performance over time.
- GPS and Route Tracking: For cyclists, Garmin watches utilize GPS technology to accurately track routes, speed, and distance covered. This feature not only helps in monitoring progress but also allows cyclists to explore new paths while ensuring they stay on course.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Many Garmin watches come equipped with wrist-based heart rate monitors, enabling athletes to keep track of their heart rate during swimming and cycling. This information is crucial for training in specific heart rate zones, optimizing performance, and preventing overexertion.
- Interval Training Features: Garmin watches support customizable interval workouts, which are essential for both swimming and cycling training. Athletes can set specific time intervals for high-intensity efforts followed by recovery periods, enhancing endurance and speed.
- Smart Notifications: Garmin watches offer smart notifications that allow users to receive alerts from their smartphones directly on their wrists. This feature keeps athletes engaged without having to stop their training sessions to check their devices, ensuring they remain focused on their performance.
- Water Resistance: Designed for swimmers, many Garmin watches boast high water resistance ratings, allowing them to be submerged without damage. This durability ensures reliable performance during swim workouts and competitions.
- Training Plans and Insights: Garmin Connect provides access to personalized training plans based on individual fitness levels and goals. Users can track progress over time and receive insights, helping them to adjust their training regimes effectively for both swimming and cycling.
- Long Battery Life: Garmin watches are known for their long battery life, making them suitable for extended training sessions and competitions. This feature is particularly beneficial for triathletes who need a reliable device that lasts through swimming, cycling, and running segments.
What Are the Main Differences Between Garmin Watch Models for Swimming and Cycling?
| Model | Swimming Features | Cycling Features |
|---|---|---|
| Garmin Swim 2 | Specifically designed for pool and open water swimming, tracks distance, pace, and SWOLF. Heart rate monitoring available while swimming. Water resistance rating of 5 ATM. | Limited cycling features, primarily focused on swimming metrics. Battery life up to 7 days in smartwatch mode. |
| Garmin Forerunner 245 | Offers swimming metrics with pool tracking, but not optimized for open water. Heart rate monitoring available during swims. Water resistance rating of 5 ATM. | Includes cycling dynamics, such as VO2 max and performance condition. Battery life up to 24 hours in GPS mode. |
| Garmin Fenix 6 | Comprehensive swimming metrics, supports multiple swim profiles and open water tracking. Heart rate monitoring available. Water resistance rating of 10 ATM. | Advanced cycling features, including recovery time and power meter support. Battery life up to 14 days in smartwatch mode. |
| Garmin Edge 1030 Plus | Not designed for swimming, focuses exclusively on cycling metrics. | Best in class for cycling, offering navigation, training, and performance tracking capabilities. Battery life up to 20 hours in GPS mode. |
How Does Price Influence Your Choice of Garmin Watch for Swimming and Cycling?
The price of a Garmin watch can significantly influence your choice, particularly when selecting the best model for swimming and cycling.
- Budget-Friendly Options: These are typically entry-level models that offer essential features for swimming and cycling without breaking the bank.
- Mid-Range Models: These watches strike a balance between functionality and price, offering advanced metrics and connectivity features.
- High-End Models: These premium watches come with a comprehensive suite of features, including detailed performance analytics and customizable settings, but at a higher price point.
Budget-Friendly Options: Garmin offers several budget-friendly models that cater to casual swimmers and cyclists. These watches usually include basic swim tracking, heart rate monitoring, and cycling metrics, making them suitable for beginners or those who engage in these activities less frequently.
Mid-Range Models: In this category, you’ll find watches that provide enhanced tracking capabilities, such as advanced swim stroke analysis and cycling power metrics. They often include features like GPS, smart notifications, and longer battery life, making them a solid choice for enthusiasts who want more detailed insights into their performance without the premium price tag.
High-End Models: The high-end Garmin watches are designed for serious athletes, providing in-depth performance metrics, personalized training plans, and robust build quality to withstand rigorous use. These models often feature advanced swim drills, cycling dynamics, and extensive connectivity options, appealing to those who are willing to invest significantly for comprehensive fitness tracking and analysis.
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