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The Best Running Watch of 2024: features and comfort
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Time to read 8 min
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Time to read 8 min
Running watches not only provide fundamental information such as time and distance, but are also crucial for advanced training techniques and progression analysis. We have thoroughly tested several models to discover which are the most accurate, user-friendly and effective for different types of runners.
A running watch is much more than just a stopwatch. For the dedicated runner, it acts as a coach, a motivator, and a tool for self-reflection. The right running watch not only helps you track your speed and distance, but also provides insight into your heart rate, calories burned, cadence, and even your sleep patterns. This data is invaluable for optimizing training, preventing overtraining, and improving overall performance. See below which running watches performed best in the test.
Did you even run if you didn't measure it? Nowadays everyone wants to measure their times and distances while running. Thanks to a running watch you can easily keep track of all your times, determine distances, measure heart rate and listen to music. The best sports watches are multifunctional and reliable. The Garmin watch is all of this, view the specific features below!
Lightweight
One of the most notable features of the Garmin Forerunner 255 Music is its lightweight design. During our workouts we barely noticed we were wearing the watch, which is a big plus for long runs or intense workouts. The watch feels comfortable on the wrist, even during extended use, thanks to the ergonomic strap and slim profile.
Pre-installed sports apps
The Garmin Forerunner 255 Music comes with a wide range of pre-installed sports apps. These apps are designed to support a variety of activities, from running and cycling to swimming and more. During our testing, we tried several of these apps and were impressed with the depth of features and customization options. This applies to all Garmin sports watches.
Includes Garmin Coach
Another great feature of the Garmin Sports Watch is the integration of Garmin Coach. This program offers personalized training plans tailored to your fitness level and racing goals. We used this feature to prepare for an upcoming half marathon and found the guided workouts and customization options extremely helpful. The coach provides feedback based on your performance and adapts as your training plan progresses.
We recently extensively tested the Polar Pacer GPS, specially designed for running enthusiasts. Aimed at improving the running experience, this watch combines style with functionality, offering advanced features for any runner who takes their performance seriously. Here we share our personal experiences after several weeks of intensive use.
Charges quickly and lasts a long time
The watch charges remarkably quickly, which is particularly useful for runners who often forget to charge their equipment in advance. After a full charge, we were able to use the watch for several days without charging in between, even with the GPS turned on continuously. The long battery life makes this a suitable sports watch.
Specially designed for running
The Polar Pacer GPS is clearly designed with the runner in mind. The watch features a lightweight design, which makes it comfortable to wear for long periods. The interface is optimized for ease of use while running, with large, readable numbers and easily accessible functions. These features make it easier to stay focused on your performance and not your equipment.
Accurate GPS
The GPS functionality of the Polar Pacer GPS is extremely accurate. This watch provides fast and accurate location determinations, which is essential for measuring your walking distance and speed. The accuracy of the GPS has a direct impact on the reliability of the data the watch collects, and this model did not disappoint. During our runs, even in areas with lots of trees or buildings, the built-in GPS remained strong and consistent, giving us accurate feedback on our workouts.
When it comes to technology, Apple is a big player, including when it comes to running watches. The latest Apple Watch Series 9 is a good running watch with excellent battery life, accurate heart rate monitoring and waterproof capabilities. The best sports watch from Apple is a multi-sport watch, read below what you can use the running watch for.
Environmentally friendly
One of the impressive aspects of the Apple Watch Series 9 is Apple's emphasis on environmental friendliness. This model is made with a large number of recycled materials, including recycled aluminum for the cabinet. During our testing, it was clear that this commitment to durability did not compromise the quality or appearance of the watch. It feels solid and premium, proving that luxury and environmental consciousness can go hand in hand.
Safety features
The Apple Watch Series 9 is equipped with advanced safety features that we particularly liked during testing. With the new crash detection, the watch can recognize serious accidents and automatically activate emergency assistance if the user does not respond. In addition, it offers the well-known heart rate monitoring and now also has improved health notifications, including a new temperature sensor that detects subtle changes in body temperature.
Waterproof
The water resistance of the Apple Watch Series 9 has been thoroughly tested by us. The watch is rated as water resistant up to 50 meters, making it ideal for all kinds of activities such as swimming or even snorkeling. We used the watch during various water sports activities, and it performed without any hiccups.
After thorough evaluation, we can say that the Garmin Forerunner 245 is an excellent choice for both amateur and serious runners. It combines advanced tracking technologies, practical comparison functions and personal coaching in one robust and easy-to-use device. Whether you're running your first 5k or training for a marathon, Forerunner 245 provides the tools and insights you need to optimize your performance and reach your running goals.
Measure your heart rate
The Garmin Forerunner 245 offers continuous heart rate monitoring directly from your wrist, without the need for a separate chest strap. During our testing, we found this feature particularly useful as it allowed us to monitor our heart rate in real time, both while running and at rest.
Can compare training sessions
Another useful feature of the Garmin Forerunner 245 is its ability to compare performance across different training sessions. The watch stores previous training data and allows us to analyze our progress over time. You can also set intervals so that you can work on your goals according to a separate training schedule.
Personal assistance
The Garmin watches go further than just measuring data; it also offers personalized guidance through Garmin Coach. These adaptive training plans are tailored to our specific fitness levels and goals. This personal touch has helped us to train in a more structured and effective way, with clear goals in mind. This also applies to the Garmin Forerunner 55, Garmin Pay and Garmin Fenix.
After extensively testing the Govza Smartwatch K22, we are convinced of its value as a reliable and multifunctional sports watch. Whether you're looking for accurate activity and sleep tracking, or just a stylish accessory that can help you stay connected, the Govza K22 offers an excellent combination of features, ease of use and affordability. This watch is an ideal choice for anyone who wants to manage their health and daily activities efficiently.
Built-in Pedometer
One of the most practical features of the Govza Smartwatch K22 is the built-in pedometer. During our testing period, we used this feature extensively to monitor our daily steps. The pedometer's accuracy was impressive; it helped us get a good insight into our physical activity during the day. This is especially useful for users who want to increase their overall activity levels or have specific fitness goals, such as increasing their daily step count.
Measure your Sleep Habits
Another notable feature of the Govza K22 is its sleep tracking feature. This watch provides comprehensive insights into your sleep patterns, including the duration of light and deep sleep phases. During our tests, we noticed that this data is very valuable to understand and improve our sleep quality. By seeing a detailed record of our sleep every morning, we were able to better understand what factors influence our rest and make adjustments as necessary.
User-friendly Interface and Connectivity
The Govza Smartwatch K22 also excels in its ease of use thanks to its intuitive interface and hassle-free connectivity with both Apple and Android devices. Pairing the smartwatch with our smartphones was a breeze, and we were able to receive notifications from our phones right on our wrist. In addition, the interface allowed us to quickly switch between different functions, which made the user experience very pleasant.
What is the best running watch for marathon runners? Certain smartwatches are particularly suitable for marathon runners due to their specific functions such as long battery life, extensive tracking options and durability. Garmin Forerunner 945 and Polar Vantage V2 are excellent choices. Both watches offer advanced features such as detailed training analytics, personalized recovery information and even race performance predictions that can be particularly useful for marathon training and race days. Create an advantage with a smartwatch that charges with solar energy.
Yes, the Apple Watch is an excellent sports watch for many users. It offers a range of health and fitness tracking features, including heart rate monitoring, GPS tracking, and is water resistant, making it suitable for a variety of sporting activities including running, swimming, and cycling. Additionally, it offers integrations with various fitness apps and the ability to stream music, making it even more functional for exercisers. For example, an Apple Watch gives you more information than an activity tracker.
Yes, you can run with an Apple Watch without taking your iPhone with you. The newer models of the Apple Watch, such as the Series 6 and later, have built-in GPS that can track your route, distance and speed without the need for a phone to be connected. Furthermore, models with cellular connectivity can even receive and send phone calls and messages without an iPhone nearby.
The advantages of an in-mold construction include:
Lightweight: The helmet is generally lighter because the structure is more efficient in the use of materials.
Stronger and Safer: Due to the fusion of the shell with the EPS foam, the helmet offers better shock absorption and is therefore often safer. In the event of an impact, the force is distributed evenly across the helmet, which reduces the risk of injury.
Better Ventilation: In-mold helmets can be more easily designed with effective ventilation channels because the manufacturing process allows more flexibility in design.
More Compact Design: These helmets can be designed to be sleeker and more streamlined, making them more aesthetically pleasing and sometimes offering aerodynamic benefits.
Durability: The integrated structure is often more durable and better able to withstand everyday use and wear and tear.
In-mold construction is a popular choice in many modern helmets, especially for activities such as cycling, skiing and snowboarding, because of the combination of lightweight, safety and comfort it offers.
Yes, Garmin devices are compatible with Apple devices. You can sync your Garmin sports watch with an iPhone via the Garmin Connect app. This app allows you to view your activity data, plan and share workouts, and manage your device settings from your iPhone. Garmin also offers integration with other Apple services and apps, such as HealthKit, making it easy to sync data between your Garmin device and your iPhone.
