10 Best Garmin Waterproof Watch 2025 in the United States

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.

The Garmin Approach S12 is tailored for avid golfers, boasting a robust set of features that cater to the specific needs of the sport. With its water resistance up to 164 feet, it can withstand the elements, making it a suitable companion for all-weather play. Highlighted by its GPS functionality, this watch offers access to over 42,000 preloaded golf courses, providing precise yardages to the green, hazards, and doglegs, which is invaluable for strategizing on the course.

The battery life is commendable, offering up to 30 hours in GPS mode. This ensures it can last through multiple rounds without needing a recharge, a key strength for those long days on the course. The high-resolution, sunlight-readable display is a practical feature, allowing golfers to easily view information even under direct sunlight, although the 0.9-inch screen might be considered small by some users.

Heart rate monitoring isn't featured, which could be a limitation for those looking to track their fitness metrics. The build quality is durable, designed to withstand the rigors of golfing. While it includes smart features like score tracking and Bluetooth connectivity to the Garmin Golf app, it is worth noting that it lacks some advanced smart features found in other smartwatches.

The Garmin Approach S12 excels in providing essential golfing features and durability, ideal for golfers prioritizing golf-specific capabilities over general smartwatch features. Its simplicity and focused functionality make it a great fit for those who prioritize golfing tools integrated into their wristwatch.

The Garmin Venu 3S is a versatile smartwatch that stands out for its impressive health monitoring capabilities and smart features. With a bright 1.2-inch AMOLED display, it not only looks good but also offers clear visibility in various lighting conditions. The watch boasts a solid water resistance rating, making it suitable for swimming and other water-related activities. Users can enjoy up to 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, which is quite generous for a device packed with features.

A key highlight is the Body Battery energy monitoring, allowing you to track your energy levels and recover effectively. It also provides personalized insights into your sleep and stress levels, which can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. With built-in GPS functionality, fitness enthusiasts can track outdoor activities accurately without needing a phone.

The smartwatch also includes a variety of smart features, such as the ability to make and receive calls, respond to messages via voice, and stream music from popular services. For wheelchair users, it has a dedicated mode to track pushes, making it inclusive for a broader audience. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The watch may be a bit bulky for those with smaller wrists, and while it offers a wide range of health metrics, some users may find the data presented to be just estimates rather than precise measurements. Additionally, syncing with certain apps might require a premium subscription, which could deter some potential buyers. In terms of usability, while the touch screen is convenient, navigating through numerous features may feel overwhelming for less tech-savvy users. Nonetheless, its user-friendly interface generally mitigates this concern.