Garmin hasn’t touched its mid-level Forerunner 200 Series GPS watches since 2019, but is poised to catch up with a major update, as well as another for the more demanding athletes. The company has introduced the Forerunner 255, a 245 tracker that adds full triathlon support, as well as more accurate multiband GPS, Garmin Pay and race preparation tools that include a multifunction widget and a “morning report” with sleep data and training suggestions. You can also expect tracking heart rate variability and power statistics from Garmin HRM-Pro or Running Dynamics Pod add-ons.
Battery life is also healthy. You can expect up to 14 days of use in full smartwatch mode and 30 hours in GPS mode.
The Forerunner 255 line is available now, with prices dictated by media support rather than box size. The series starts at $ 350 for the 41mm Forerunner 255S and also for the larger 46mm 465. If you want music on your Amazon, Deezer, or Spotify device, you’ll have to spend $ 400 for 255S Music or 255 Music. They’re not casual shopping yet, but now they’re easier to justify if you’re committed to improving your races.
Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar running watch
However, you now have a better incentive to spend more. Garmin is also launching the Forerunner 955 Solar (pictured in the middle), its first dedicated solar-powered watch. The glass panel gives you up to 20 days of smart watch use and 49 hours of active GPS, useful for long-distance runners or anyone who just hates to connect. You’ll also get a touch screen for easier navigation with all five buttons. the controls do not work. You can also expect the 255’s multiband GPS, heart rate variability, and software enhancements, while “extras” like music and Garmin Pay are built-in.
The 955 Solar is now available for $ 600, while a more conventional Forerunner 955 sells for $ 500. As with previous 900 models, you’ll probably already know if you want one. They are aimed directly at professional athletes and serious enthusiasts determined to improve their pace.