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 Forerunner® 255 is a GPS running smartwatch that stands out in several key areas. It offers an impressive water resistance rating, making it suitable for activities like swimming. The built-in GPS functionality is robust, providing accurate tracking for running and other outdoor activities. One of its strongest features is the battery life, which can last up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and up to 30 hours in GPS mode, ensuring it won't need frequent recharging even with continuous use.

The watch also excels in heart rate monitoring, with HRV status tracking your heart rate variability during sleep for insights into wellness and recovery. Its slim design and always-on, full-color display are easy to read, even in direct sunlight, and the durable build quality means it can withstand daily wear and tear. Smart features like personalized workout suggestions, recovery time assessments, and adaptive training plans from Garmin Coach make it a great companion for serious runners and athletes.

On the downside, advanced running dynamics and power metrics require additional accessories, which could mean extra costs. The watch also has a relatively modest memory storage capacity of 4 GB. Nevertheless, this watch is best suited for fitness enthusiasts and runners looking for a comprehensive tool to enhance their training and health monitoring.

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.