10 Best Garmin Waterproof Watch 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Instinct 2 is a rugged outdoor smartwatch designed for adventurers and fitness enthusiasts. It excels in durability, featuring a fiber-reinforced polymer case and scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass, and is rated water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it suitable for swimming and various outdoor activities. The watch supports multiple global navigation satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo), ensuring accurate tracking of your location and routes, which is beneficial for hiking, biking, and other outdoor pursuits.

Additionally, the built-in 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter enhance its navigation capabilities. With a battery life of up to 28 days in smartwatch mode and up to 30 hours in GPS mode, it offers excellent longevity for prolonged use without frequent recharging. The Instinct 2 also includes comprehensive health and fitness monitoring features, such as heart rate tracking, sleep monitoring, Pulse Ox, and respiration tracking, which can help users better understand their physical condition. However, it's important to note that the Pulse Ox feature is not available in all countries and is not intended as a medical device.

The smartwatch offers smart notifications and is compatible with Connect IQ, allowing users to customize their experience with additional apps and widgets when paired with a compatible smartphone. The display is 1.12 inches, which might be considered small by some users, but it is functional and suitable for quick glances. The Instinct 2's buttons provide a reliable interface, especially in harsh conditions where touchscreens might falter. While the watch does not have advanced smartwatch features like contactless payments or music storage, it focuses on core outdoor and fitness functionalities, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize durability and comprehensive tracking over smart features.

The Garmin Forerunner 955 is an excellent choice for triathletes and fitness enthusiasts who need a reliable GPS smartwatch with robust features. Its waterproof build ensures durability during swimming and outdoor activities, making it suitable for various sports. One of the standout points is its impressive battery life, lasting up to 15 days in smartwatch mode and 42 hours in GPS mode, which is perfect for long training sessions or races. The always-on, vibrant display enhances usability, even in bright sunlight, allowing for easy navigation through its functions.

This watch shines with its GPS functionality, offering multi-GNSS support for accurate tracking. Users can rely on its built-in mapping feature, ensuring you stay on the right course while running or cycling. Moreover, the heart rate monitoring capabilities, including features like HRV status and training readiness scores, enable athletes to keep track of their health and performance effectively.

On the downside, the Forerunner 955 can be considered a bit overwhelming for casual users due to its extensive features and settings. Some might find it challenging to navigate through various functions initially, especially if they are less tech-savvy. The price point may also be a concern for those on a budget, as it is on the higher end compared to simpler models. Additionally, while the watch is packed with smart features, some users might not fully utilize them, leading to a perception of underuse.

The Garmin Forerunner 165 is a solid choice for runners and fitness enthusiasts looking for a reliable smartwatch. It stands out with its built-in GPS functionality, which accurately tracks pace and distance, making it a great companion for outdoor activities. The AMOLED display is bright and colorful, ensuring visibility even in bright sunlight, while the lightweight design adds to its comfort during extended wear.

Battery life is impressive, offering up to 11 days in smartwatch mode and 19 hours in GPS mode, which means you can go on long runs or multi-day adventures without worrying about charging. The watch is designed with various training metrics and recovery insights, helping users understand their fitness levels and plan workouts effectively. Safety features, such as incident detection and assistance, enhance peace of mind during outdoor activities. The watch also supports smart notifications and Garmin Pay, allowing you to stay connected and make purchases without carrying extra items.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the Forerunner 165 is packed with features, it may feel overwhelming for someone who is not tech-savvy. The need for a paired smartphone for certain functionalities, like incident detection and smart notifications, might limit its usability for those who prefer standalone devices. Additionally, while it offers a variety of built-in activity profiles, it may not cater to niche sports as effectively as some specialized devices. The Garmin Forerunner 165 is best suited for serious runners and those invested in tracking their fitness journeys, thanks to its robust GPS, health monitoring features, and smart functionalities. However, casual users or those seeking a simpler watch may find it a bit complex.