Finding the proper running smartwatch can be challenging, especially with the numerous options available. We recently tested the Garmin Forerunner 255, and it has quickly become our go-to for fitness tracking. Its slim design and always-on display make it easy to use during runs, even in bright sunlight.
We were also impressed by the battery life: it lasts approximately 14 days in smartwatch mode and up to 30 hours with GPS enabled. This means we can train for long distances without constantly worrying about charging. The morning report summarizes our sleep and workout suggestions, providing valuable insights that enhance our training routines.
While we appreciate the advanced features, such as training tips and health metrics, the watch lacks a touchscreen, which may be a concern for some users. Nevertheless, the Forerunner 255 remains user-friendly, especially during swim workouts, when a smudge-free screen is essential.
Bottom Line
The Garmin Forerunner 255 is a strong contender for those seeking a reliable running smartwatch.
Its long battery life, comprehensive fitness insights, and durable design make it an excellent choice for athletes and casual runners.
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Garmin Forerunner 255 Overview
We recently spent some time with this smartwatch and appreciate its functionality and user-friendly design. The always-on display is bright and precise, making it easy to read even under direct sunlight. We also found the slim profile to be comfortable on the wrist, making it perfect for all-day wear.
The battery life stands out significantly, lasting up to 14 days in smartwatch mode. It delivers impressive performance in GPS mode, running for up to 30 hours—ideal for longer training sessions or races.
The morning report feature provides valuable insights into sleep patterns and heart rate variability, enabling us to make informed decisions about our health journey. The training tips and adaptive workout suggestions are practical and tailored to our recent running experiences. This device offers a well-rounded blend of coaching and tracking capabilities for runners at all levels.
Design and Comfort
When we first tried the Forerunner 255, its slim profile was immediately noticeable. It feels lightweight on the wrist, making it comfortable for long runs or daily wear. The always-on, full-color display is easy to read, even in bright sunlight, which is a big plus for outdoor activities.
While the design is sleek, we’ve noticed that the non-touchscreen feature may take some time, especially if we’re switching from touch-enabled devices. Overall, the build quality feels robust, and it withstands daily wear without showing signs of damage. The option between 46 mm and 41 mm sizes also allows us to find the perfect fit. We appreciate these design elements that prioritize both functionality and user comfort.
Battery Life and Performance
After using this smartwatch, we found its battery life impressive. With typical use, it easily lasts several days before needing a recharge. This extended longevity is a significant advantage for those who forget to charge devices regularly.
When actively tracking workouts, especially with GPS-enabled models, we noticed that the battery still held up well compared to other models. The watch handles long runs without issue, providing reliable performance throughout.
It’s worth mentioning that while the battery life is commendable, heavy users might still want to keep an eye on it during intense workout weeks. Overall, this watch strikes a nice balance between efficiency and functionality, making it a solid choice for fitness enthusiasts.
Advanced Training Features
We found the training capabilities of this smartwatch particularly impressive. The morning report feature provides a concise overview of our sleep and heart rate variability, along with a tailored workout suggestion, right at the start of the day, helping us better plan our training.
The adaptive workout recommendations change based on our performance, ensuring we don’t push too hard or slack off. With Garmin Coach, we can access free training plans for various race distances, making it easy to follow a structured program.
We gain insights into our running form and power output using advanced dynamics with additional sensors. This detailed feedback enables us to refine our technique and improve our training. The watch also summarizes our recovery needs after workouts, clearly showing our readiness for the next session.
Health and Wellness Tracking
This smartwatch has impressed us with its robust tracking capabilities as we engage with our health and fitness journey. Its ability to monitor various metrics, such as heart rate variability and sleep patterns, provides insightful data that can help us adjust our training approaches.
The morning report feature is handy, as it provides a concise summary of key health metrics at a glance. Daily suggested workouts adapt to our performance, adding a personal touch to our training routines. While we appreciate the depth of data, some might find the device overwhelming if they prefer simpler fitness tracking.
The battery life is commendable, enabling extended monitoring periods without the need for frequent recharging. Overall, it is a reliable tool for enhancing our health insights, whether training for a race or staying active.
Smartwatch Connectivity
Using this smartwatch, we appreciated how effortlessly it connected with our devices. The Bluetooth integration was seamless, allowing us to receive notifications, track our workout statistics, and manage music without needing to pull out our phones.
We did notice that the device sometimes had trouble maintaining a stable connection, especially when we were far from our phone. However, once paired, syncing data back to our devices was straightforward and quick.
Overall, this smartwatch provides decent connectivity options for those seeking to stay connected to their fitness goals while managing notifications. The user-friendly interface enhances the experience, making routine tasks more efficient, even when on the go.
Pros and Cons
Upon closer examination of this GPS-equipped smartwatch, several notable advantages and drawbacks become apparent.
Pros
- Lightweight Design: The slim design makes it comfortable for all-day wear. We appreciate that it doesn’t feel bulky on the wrist, even during extended workouts.
- Impressive Battery Life: The device boasts a battery life of up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and 30 hours in GPS mode, outshining many of its competitors. We rarely worry about charging it frequently.
- Comprehensive Tracking Features: The watch provides detailed insights into sleep, heart rate variability, and training metrics, helping users effectively track their health and performance.
- Personalized Workouts: We found that tailoring our fitness routines with suggested daily exercises and adaptive training plans to be beneficial.
- Durability: It withstands regular wear and tear well. It even survived a wash without any issues, which adds to its reliability.
Cons
- No Touchscreen: While some users prefer non-touchscreen interfaces for specific workouts, others may find them outdated, being accustomed to touch interfaces.
- Limited Music Features: This model doesn’t support music storage, which may be a downside for those seeking a comprehensive workout experience.
- Learning Curve: Navigating all the features can be overwhelming at first. It takes time to get accustomed to it and fully utilize its capabilities.
- Need for Additional Accessories: For advanced metrics, such as running dynamics, extra equipment is necessary, which increases the overall cost.
After weighing these factors, the Garmin Forerunner 255 delivers solid performance, excellent tracking, and durability, making it a strong contender for serious runners and fitness enthusiasts.
Customer Reviews
After using this watch, we found the feedback from other users to be quite enlightening. Many appreciate its durability and are impressed with the battery life, often mentioning that it lasts longer than expected. This device provides a wealth of running and swimming data, which users find valuable for their training purposes.
Some users appreciated the non-touchscreen design for workout situations, as it made it easy to use without smudging their screens. While transitioning from other brands, many noted how well this model fit into their multi-sport routines. A few wished for longer battery life compared to alternatives, but most felt it provided excellent value for the features offered.
Overall, this watch resonates with those who are serious about their fitness. It combined functionality with ease of use, receiving an impressive rating of 4.7 from over 400 reviews.
Conclusion
After using the Garmin Forerunner 255, we appreciate its blend of features that cater to both casual and serious athletes. The battery life stands out, lasting longer than expected during our training sessions, while the durability offers peace of mind for day-to-day wear.
We found the interface to be user-friendly, with customizable settings that enhance our running and swimming experiences. Although it’s not a touchscreen, this can be a benefit, especially during wet conditions.
It may not have the flair of other smartwatches, but many prioritize functionality over style. This smartwatch company is dedicated to fitness, helping enthusiasts reach their goals.