Staying connected, informed and safe — regardless of geographical location — has become an essential and expected part of our lives. So, what makes inReach satellite communicators stand out? Below are some of the top reasons why it’s advantageous to have an inReach handheld available¹.

Connection to the only satellite network with global coverage

The Iridium^® satellite network, one of the world’s largest commercial satellite constellations, is the system that allows inReach handhelds to work globally. Unlike Garmin smartwatches with built-in inReach capabilities, the Iridium network system in handhelds uses low-orbit satellites that enable inReach satellite communicators to relay messages, provide weather forecasts, navigate, and trigger SOS alerts — even when you and your handheld are well out of range of cellular coverage. Plus, the multidirectional, purpose-built antennas in inReach handhelds are designed to establish a reliable connection, which can be especially important in an emergency.

Interactive SOS

With an inReach handheld and an active subscription, you can trigger an SOS message and connect directly to the Garmin Response^SM team. When an SOS alert is received, team members pinpoint the incident location. Then, via two-way messaging, team members gather information from the user, coordinate the rescue response and connect with emergency contacts.

Internal emergency response coordination

A unique part of the inReach experience is that SOS activations are managed by the Garmin in-house incident response coordination center, Garmin Response. Operating since 2007, the center is staffed by trained professionals who use proprietary emergency handling software to manage each SOS alert and work with a private global database of local first responders.

Optional search and rescue insurance

The last things anyone wants to consider while recreating are the “what ifs.” To help alleviate those worries, Garmin offers its own search and rescue (SAR) insurance plans for select regions. With an inReach handheld and active subscription plan, you can choose from one of three SAR plans that provide financial reimbursement for qualified search and rescue-related expenses incurred during a rescue.

Three messaging types to stay connected to friends and family

inReach handhelds are often thought of for navigation or SOS use. However, they are also satellite texting devices that offer flexible messaging options to help you stay connected to loved ones, even if it’s a simple “I’m OK” update. Using the global coverage of the Iridium satellite network, inReach handhelds can send messages to cellphone numbers, email addresses or other inReach handhelds.

Send photos and voice messages with inReach Plus technology

When used with the Garmin Messenger app, handhelds with inReach Plus technology, like GPSMAP® H1i Plus and inReach® Mini 3 Plus, have a built-in speaker and microphone for exchanging voice messages and can send and receive photos² — no cell coverage needed.

Other valuable inReach handheld functions

Battery life: With the battery life of select inReach models lasting up to 30 days, you can stay on adventures longer. Check the specs section on each inReach handheld’s product page for detailed battery life information.

Rugged construction: inReach handhelds are tough, durable, and impact-resistant, with select models water-rated to IPX7. The manual SOS button is designed to work in wet and cold conditions, as proven by this SOS rescue.

inReach to compatible device pairing: Certain inReach handhelds (inReach^® Mini and newer) can be paired with compatible Garmin devices (watches, cycling computers, chartplotters, etc.) to control inReach functionalities, including SOS, from the paired device.

LiveTrack: Give peace of mind to loved ones by using the tracking feature to share your location at specified intervals, either on your personal tracking page or embedded into messages (active inReach plan required).

Weather forecasts: An active subscription and connection to the Iridium satellite network allow you to get detailed weather forecasts for your current location or other destinations on your route from your inReach handheld, helping you to make better decisions about your adventure. This feature has helped users make informed decisions in many extreme weather situations.

inReach handhelds deliver a lot of powerful features and functionalities. Find out which device is right for you based on your favorite activities.

¹_{Active plan required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit satellite communication devices; it is the user’s responsibility to know and follow all applicable laws.}

²_{Photo and voice messaging requires use of the Garmin Messenger app on your paired smartphone}

The post What’s different about inReach handhelds? appeared first on Garmin Stories.

As a pro golfer or golf enthusiast who swings a full 18, having the right equipment is important. Improving on and off the course starts with the latest and greatest smartwatch, and that smartwatch just so happens to be Approach® S72.

Before making the leap from your current golf watch to Approach S72, you’re probably curious what new golf, health and fitness features you’ll be able to take advantage of.

If that’s you, let’s break down how Approach S72 compares to Approach® S70.  

1. Advanced golf features

With Approach S70 on your wrist, you’ve probably hit the fairway on many of the 43,000 preloaded golf courses. You’ve also enjoyed premium golf features like PlaysLike Distance and virtual caddie to better understand the fairway and pick the right club.

If you enjoyed those features, Approach S72 welcomes those along with a host of new premium golf features including swing metrics, golf biometric data¹, green reading² on select courses and more.

Swing metrics

Seeing swing metrics on your watch is like watching film, but in real time. Review your swing in the middle of a round or range session to see details like hand speed, backswing length, wrist rotation and more from your wrist. To get a more detailed look into your swing, you can find your metrics saved in the Garmin Golf app.

Here’s how you can use a few of these metrics to learn more about your swing:

• Understanding your hand speed helps you improve your downswing. Use this feature to see how fast you’re moving before making contact with the ball.
• As you go for each shot, your backswing length is measured by the movement of your wrist from the moment you’re in address position to the moment you swing your club to the top. This is especially helpful when you’re dialing in half swings and wedge shots. Use this feature to build the consistency needed to control distance as well as your confidence around the green.
• To aim for a consistent swing, take a look at your wrist rotation metrics. Wrist rotation is measured and can give you an idea if you might be pulling or pushing the ball. Too much rotation can cause you to pull the ball while too little can cause you to push.

Golf biometric data

Preshot jitters are real. Use your Garmin smartwatch to monitor how your heart rate fluctuates as you step up to the tee to the moment you complete a swing¹. To view your current heart rate, average heart rate per hole and number of shots in each heart rate zone, simply take a look at your Approach S72 smartwatch.  

Postround, you can see a heart rate graph for the entire round and draw conclusions about how heart rate may have impacted your game. Dive deeper and see what your heart rate was at each hole.

Green reading

If you’ve been using green contour data to improve your putting game, you’ll appreciate the green reading feature on Approach S72.

When you have a Garmin Golf membership, use the green reading feature to better understand green contour data on select courses. Walk to the pin and mark the flag on your smartwatch. When you get back to your ball, use Approach S72 to see what direction your putt might break and what the average slope percentage is. Determining your aim point has never been easier.

2. Design and functionality 

Approach S70 has an AMOLED display making it easy to see in bright sunlight. Its lightweight build and ceramic bezel have also made it a practical addition to your everyday style.

Approach S72 adds to the AMOLED display with a watch that is more comfortable, stylish and durable. This Approach smartwatch comes with a ComfortFit band in various styles and sizes, fit for every wrist. Featuring a titanium bezel and sapphire lens, Approach S72 can endure long days spent on the course and tough adventures off the course. Speaking of long days, count on the battery life to last up to 20 hours on the course or up to 16 days in smartwatch mode on the 47 mm size. Get up to 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 15 hours in golf activity mode on the 43 mm size.

New additions, like the built-in flashlight and speaker and microphone, come in handy for late-night scrambles, communicating with friends and family from your wrist with a connected smartphone, and controlling watch functions through voice commands.

3. Health and fitness features

There’s more than meets the eye with this golf watch. Not only can you use it on the green, but off the green you’ll get health and fitness features to help you reach peak performance.  

Approach S72 comes with a suite of activities that can be tracked from the wrist. Approach S70 let you track over 40 activities, but when you upgrade to Approach S72, track over 100 activities. Golfers can work on improving their swing by leveraging fitness features focused on building strength and mobility.

Plus, Approach S72 users can monitor various health and wellness metrics including sleep alignment, health status, smart wake alarm and breathing variations³. For more heart-related data, the ECG app is also available⁴.

Get insights on and off the green with Approach S72. Upgrade today and browse our full collection of golf electronics.

¹_{See Garmin.com/ataccuracy}

²_{Requires an active Garmin Golf membership}

³_{This is not a medical device and is not intended for diagnosing or monitoring any medical condition; see Garmin.com/ataccuracy. Pulse Ox is required and not available in all countries.}

⁴_{The ECG app is only available on select Garmin smartwatches with the latest version of the Garmin Connect smartphone app and watch software. The ECG app is not available in all regions; see Garmin.com/ecg for availability. The ECG app is only intended for adults aged 22 years and over. The ECG app is capable of recording an ECG similar to a Lead I ECG and detecting the presence of atrial fibrillation or normal sinus rhythm.}

The post The difference between Approach S72 and S70 golf watches appeared first on Garmin Stories.

If you’re reading this, maybe you’ve been asking yourself for a while: Which Garmin watch should I get?

The answer depends on how you’re planning on using it. But luckily for you, whether you’re looking for a smartwatch with essential wellness tracking features, advanced running metrics, rich mapping details for your outdoor adventures, premium golf features or even a smartwatch with SOS messaging¹, you’ll find what you need with Garmin.

That said, we know we have a lot of options. If you can’t decide which Garmin watch is best for you, look no further. We’re going to explain each of our watch options.

Perfect for essential wellness tracking

Lily^® 2 Active: This small and stylish smartwatch has a metal case with a hidden display (just tap it to reveal the bright display) and essential wellness features — including heart rate, Body Battery energy monitoring, sleep tracking and women’s health features — to give you a more complete picture of your health².

• Battery life: Up to 9 days in smartwatch mode
• Case size: 38 mm
• Display type: Liquid crystal hidden behind a patterned lens that blends in with the watch colors

Perfect for wellness tracking and hitting the gym

vívoactive^® 6: This smartwatch offers a bright AMOLED display and a variety of health and fitness features — so you can monitor your health in and out of the gym. vívoactive 6 includes more than 80 preloaded sports apps so you can stay on top of your fitness. You can also use Garmin Coach running and strength training plans — some of which adapt based on performance, recovery and health metrics.

• Battery life: Up to 11 days in smartwatch mode
• Case size: 42 mm
• Display type: AMOLED

Perfect for tracking your wellness, workouts and fitness metrics

Venu^® 4: With detailed health and fitness insights, the ECG app³, a bright AMOLED display, a built-in speaker and microphone (to make and take calls from the watch when paired with a smartphone and connected to the phone’s voice assistant), Garmin Coach and dozens of sports apps, Venu 4 is ready to help you serve looks — or serve on the pickleball court. Plus, light your way with the built-in LED flashlight. The advanced health and fitness features — including skin temperature tracking² for more accurate period predictions and past ovulation estimates⁴ — can help you better understand your body and make healthier decisions. It also offers a sophisticated metal design and two size options.

• Battery life: Up to 12 days on the 45 mm size in smartwatch mode
• Case size: 41 mm or 45 mm
• Display type: AMOLED

Perfect for wellness-minded runners, multisport athletes and gym rats

Venu X1: This premium GPS smartwatch features an easy-to-read 2” AMOLED display with a scratch-resistant sapphire lens — and our thinnest watch case. Venu X1 offers detailed health and fitness insights as well as advanced running features and mapping. It includes a built-in LED flashlight as well as a built-in speaker and microphone. Whether you’re training with Garmin Coach, recovering on off days or navigating a new running route, you can trust Venu X1.

• Battery life: Up to 8 days in smartwatch mode
• Case size: 41 x 46 mm
• Display type: AMOLED

Perfect for new runners

Forerunner 70/Forerunner 170 Music: When you’re getting started as a runner, you need a watch with essential training features to cross the finish line. That’s where the Forerunner 70 and Forerunner 170 Music come into play. Along with built-in GPS for time, distance and pace, long battery life, sleep monitoring and wrist-based heart rate², these Forerunners curate daily suggested workouts that match performance and recovery after every run. Plus, take advantage of beginner-friendly Garmin Coach training plans with run-walk workouts in the Garmin Connect app. If you want to quickly set up a running workout based on your available training time and desired intensity level, the quick workout feature will create a workout for you.

When you have the Forerunner 170 music, download your favorite songs, podcasts and more to listen with your wireless headphones from your watch (subscription may be required). If you need to refuel, stop for a mid-run snack, water or gel, and use Garmin Pay contactless payments to pay from your wrist⁵.

It’s time to sign up for that 5K when you have a Foreunner 70 or 170 Music on your wrist.

• Battery life: Forerunner 70 up to 13 days and Forerunner 170 Music up to 10 days in smartwatch mode
• Case size: 43 mm
• Display type: AMOLED

Perfect for advanced runners

Forerunner 570: Let’s up your running game. You need training status, training readiness, multi-band GPS support and adaptive training plans from Garmin Run Coach. Forerunner 570 includes a built-in speaker and microphone, an aluminum bezel and advanced running features.

• Battery life: Up to 11 days on the 47 mm size
• Case size: 42 mm or 47 mm
• Display type: AMOLED

Perfect for runners and multisport athletes who want a premium watch

Forerunner 970: With a sapphire crystal lens, titanium bezel and longer battery life for intense training, Forerunner 970 is ready for your next long run or bike ride. Train for your next race — whether that’s a marathon, half-marathon or even triathlon — or improve your fitness with adaptive training plans from Garmin Coach. It also adds a wealth of advanced running features, such as running tolerance, which can recommend weekly maximum mileage. When you also train with your heart rate monitor such as HRM 600, the running economy feature will show your overall energy efficiency while running. This feature also includes data such as step speed loss, which shows how much you slow down when your foot hits the ground. There is a built-in LED flashlight, speaker and microphone, and more upgrades to help you take your sport to the next level. (You can compare all of our running smartwatches here).

• Battery life: Up to 15 days in smartwatch mode
• Case size: 47 mm
• Display type: AMOLED

Perfect for multisport athletes who love outdoor adventures

fēnix 9: This is our premium GPS multisport smartwatch. The purpose-built design includes a dive-rated build with leakproof metal buttons, a metal sensor guard, a titanium bezel, a built-in LED flashlight, and speaker and microphone. You’ll get all the health and wellness monitoring features you already love as well as premium training, planning and analysis features for athletes and extreme adventurers. Plus, multiday activities can be tracked as a single experience using Garmin Epic. The fēnix 9 Series also offers an extra bright AMOLED display.

• Battery life: Up to 29 days in smartwatch mode on the 51 mm size
• Case size: 43 mm, 47 mm and 51 mm
• Display type: AMOLED

Perfect for athletes and explorers who want to stay connected on the go

fēnix 9 Pro: This smartwatch with a sleek, lightweight and durable design features a titanium bezel and case. Pro users can also choose between the extremely bright AMOLED display or solar charging MIP display. When in areas with limited to no cell service, fenix 9 Pro users with SOS receive inReach® connectivity for satellite and cellular coverage¹ in all 3 case sizes. That way, you can communicate with those back home or trigger an SOS message to Garmin Response℠, our 24/7-staffed international emergency coordination center, to get connected with help if you need it. Elite athletes and outdoor enthusiasts will also have access to advanced fitness features, training stats and more from the wrist and in Garmin Connect. Learn more about fēnix 9 series smartwatches.

• Battery life: Up to 31 days in smartwatch mode on the AMOLED 51 mm size or up to 57 days with solar charging on the 51 mm size
• Case size: 43 mm, 47 mm and 51 mm
• Display type: AMOLED or solar charging with a sunlight-readability, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display

Perfect for runners who want the ultimate endurance watch

Enduro 4: Built for ultramarathoners, endurance athletes and trail runners, Enduro 4 is the high-performing GPS smartwatch you’ve been looking for. Enduro 4 includes an LED flashlight and routable maps with up to 30% faster panning than the previous version so you can quickly load trail data. Track over 100 activities and start an Epic to combine multiple days of activity into a single experience. As you conquer various terrains, grade-adjusted features help you manage your effort and provide pace overviews. To build upon your training efforts, use stamina metrics and advanced rowing and rucking features.

• Battery life: Up to 320 hours in activity mode⁷ with solar charging or up to 90 days in smartwatch mode⁶
• Case size: 51 mm
• Display type: Sunlight-readability, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display

Perfect for outdoor adventurers who want a rugged watch

Instinct^® 3: With a metal-reinforced bezel, fiber-reinforced polymer case and a scratch-resistant display for extreme durability, Instinct 3 is purpose-built for adventurers who love enjoying the great outdoors. It also features a built-in LED flashlight, multiple sizes and a solar option that can bring you up to unlimited battery life⁶. Plus, you can get this watch packed with tactical features, including night vision capability, rucking activity, stealth mode (which collects distances and biometrics without recording location data), projected waypoints and many more.

• Battery life: Up to 24 days in smartwatch mode on the 50 mm size or up to unlimited battery life with solar charging⁶
• Case size: 45 mm and 50 mm
• Display type: AMOLED or a solar charging, monochrome, sunlight- readability and transflective MIP display

Perfect for those who need a tactical watch built for the mission

tactix® 8: This next-gen tactical smartwatch offers leakproof buttons, a sensor guard, a titanium bezel and a scratch-resistant sapphire lens for extreme durability. tactix 8 features a built-in LED flashlight with a white (disabled in night vision mode) or green beam (which becomes dimmable in night vision mode). It also includes tactical features such as rucking, jumpmaster activity, waypoint project, dual-position GPS format, stealth mode, kill switch, Applied Ballistics^® solver, compatibility with night vision goggles, a dedicated tactical activity and more.

• Battery life: Up to 29 days in smartwatch mode on the 51 mm size or up to 48 days with solar charging⁶
• Case size: 47 mm or 51 mm
• Display type: AMOLED or solar charging with a sunlight-readable, transflective MIP display

Perfect for golfers looking for essentials

Approach S44: You’ll get all the golfing essentials — and then some — with the Approach S44 GPS golf smartwatch, including the green view feature to see each green’s shape from anywhere on the course and AutoShot game tracking to automatically track where your shots land⁹. Plus, with a Garmin Golf membership, you can get premium features such as Premium CourseView maps, touch targeting and green contour data.

• Battery life: Up to 15 hours in GPS mode
• Case size: 43 mm
• Display type: AMOLED

Perfect for on and off the golf course

Approach S50: This advanced GPS smartwatch helps you easily see key yardages to the green, hazards and layups on more than 43,000 courses. Thanks to the PlaysLike Distance feature, you can see how far each shot is playing with yardage adjusted for elevation changes. (Don’t forget to add on a Garmin Golf membership for access to even more features). You’ll also get essential health and wellness features as well as preloaded activities to help you improve your strength and mobility.

• Battery life: Up to 10 days in smartwatch mode
• Case size: 43 mm
• Display type: AMOLED

Perfect for golfers who want premium features

Approach S72: This premium GPS golf smartwatch comes in two sizes and ComfortFit fabric band that won’t interfere with your swing. It also includes a built-in LED flashlight and speaker and microphone. Golfers will have everything they need to improve on and off the course thanks to advanced swing metrics, the virtual caddie feature (which includes a dispersion chart that displays hazards in play, depending on club choice), enhanced PlaysLike Distance (which accounts for changes in elevation and environmental conditions), club suggestions based on performance and wind⁹, and preloaded fitness apps for strength, running and more. Beyond the fairways, use this golf smartwatch to track over 100 other activities and view various health and wellness metrics. (Need to dive deeper on our golf watches? Learn more about your golf smartwatch options).

• Battery life: Up to 20 hours on the course and up to 16 days with GPS turned off on the 47 mm size
• Case size: 43 mm or 47 mm
• Display type: AMOLED

Now that you’ve got a better idea of our options, it’s time to choose which Garmin watch is best for your needs. You can browse our full selection of smartwatches.

¹ _{Active plan required; LTE network coverage is not available in all regions. Satellite connection and SOS functionality on this device have important limitations compared to other inReach devices that could affect the performance of connected features, making them unavailable in certain situations. Check Garmin.com/fenix9profeaturerequirements for requirements and limitations and to see which services are accessible in your area — or in areas to where you may be traveling to ensure the performance, coverage and service levels of this device are suitable for your intended use..}

²_{See Garmin.com/ataccuracy}

³_{The ECG app is only available on select Garmin smartwatches with the latest version of the Garmin Connect smartphone app and watch software. The ECG app is not available in all regions; see Garmin.com/ecg for availability. The ECG app is only intended for adults aged 22 years and over. The ECG app is capable of recording an ECG similar to a Lead I ECG and detecting the presence of atrial fibrillation or normal sinus rhythm.}

⁴_{The menstrual cycle tracking feature should not be used in support of conception, contraception or birth control. This is not a medical device and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or monitoring of any medical condition.}

⁵_{View current supported country, payment network and issuing bank information}

⁶_{Assumes all-day wear with 3 hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions}

⁷_{Assumes continuous use for entire period in 50,000 lux conditions}

⁸_{Lie and ball contact may affect shot tracking. Putts are not tracked. Some shots, particularly chip shots around the green, may not be tracked.}

⁹_{When paired with your smartphone}

The post Which Garmin smartwatch is right for me? appeared first on Garmin Stories.

From hiking alpine trails to paddling remote rivers, one thing remains essential to recreators: staying connected when it counts. Since 2011, Garmin devices with inReach® connectivity have been trusted tools for those who venture beyond cell service¹.

Once you have your inReach device, you must choose a service plan to utilize features like SOS, two-way messaging, live tracking and more. To make this choice easier, we’ve put together a short guide to help you select the best option for your needs.

Garmin inReach plans

Garmin’s service plans for inReach devices allow you to connect with friends and family beyond the limits of cellular networks. inReach plans enable features like two-way messaging, weather forecasts and live tracking with LTE and satellite connectivity (features vary by device). In an emergency, you can trigger an interactive SOS message with your GPS coordinates to Garmin Response^SM, our 24/7-staffed international response coordination center.

All plans include emergency SOS messaging. You can move between plans as your needs change or suspend service at no cost.

Which plan is right for me?

Below are summaries of each plan option (features vary by device). For an overview of features and costs, see inReach consumer plans.

Premium: Ideal for users who want to be as connected as possible outside of cellular coverage, our top-tier plan includes SOS and unlimited text messages, check-in messages/reactions, weather requests and live tracking/location requests. Fifty photo/voice messages (available only on compatible devices paired with the Garmin Messenger app) are included. 

Standard: For users who need more freedom with their text messaging and who depend on tracking, our second highest plan includes SOS messaging and 150 text messages and weather requests. Check-ins, reactions and tracking features are unlimited. The plan comes with 50 photo/voice messages (available only on compatible devices paired with the Garmin Messenger app) included. 

Essential: Our middle-tier plan is ideal for users who plan to use text messaging when necessary but don’t expect a lot of back-and-forth communication. It includes SOS messaging and 50 text messages and weather requests. Check-ins and reactions are unlimited, and tracking features are pay-as-you-go. 25 photo/voice messages (available only on compatible devices paired with the Garmin Messenger app) are included. 

Enabled: This plan is best for users who want basic features and peace of mind. This plan keeps your device active at a low monthly cost and provides a great value, especially for smartwatch customers that prioritize LTE connectivity. It includes SOS messaging and is pay-as-you-go for all other messaging, weather requests and tracking features. 

Suspend: The suspend option allows you to pause your inReach plan at no cost for up to 12 months at a time. You can move back into an active plan at any time with no reactivation fee. To maintain SOS capabilities with a suspended plan, pair and connect your compatible device with the latest software in the Garmin Messenger app.

What’s the difference between suspend and cancel?

If you don’t need your inReach device for periods of time, the Suspend option puts your device into a “paused” state with no monthly fees. You can easily switch back to an active plan at no cost anytime. If you cancel and choose to reactivate, you will have to go through the activation process again and will be charged the activation fee.

_{¹Active plan required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices; it is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws.}

The post Overview: inReach subscription plans appeared first on Garmin Stories.

Your MARQ® (Gen 2) watch has been a statement piece designed for your passions. Whether you’re an athlete, golfer, pilot, sea lover or adventurer, it’s been a premium tool built to support you while looking great on your wrist.

Now you’re wondering if it’s time to upgrade to MARQ (Gen 3). With a larger display, built-in speaker and microphone, integrated LED flashlight, worldwide mapping, address search and new inReach® connectivity, the latest MARQ collection adds capabilities that can make a real difference both on and off the grid.

Keep reading as we break down the biggest differences between MARQ (Gen 2) and MARQ (Gen 3).

Refined design and new hardware

For adventurers in pursuit of excellence, the Garmin MARQ collection sets the standard for purpose-built luxury smartwatches forged from premium materials. MARQ (Gen 3) builds on that foundation with a refined design that’s slimmer, more durable and more comfortable to wear every day. Crafted to withstand the most rugged conditions with materials like titanium, ceramic, and sapphire, it looks just as good at dinner as it does on your next adventure.

Each MARQ model still includes details inspired by its intended pursuit, helping it feel unique while staying true to the collection’s high-end look and feel.

MARQ (Gen 3) also introduces several upgrades you’ll notice right away. A larger 1.4-inch AMOLED display makes information easier to read at a glance, while a built-in speaker and microphone add convenience throughout the day. There’s also an integrated LED flashlight with microlensing, giving you quick access to improved visibility when you need it most.

Stay connected beyond cell coverage

For those who spend time exploring beyond the reach of traditional networks, MARQ (Gen 3) adds an extra layer of confidence and peace of mind with the addition of built-in inReach connectivity¹.

With LTE connectivity enabled, users can stay connected while on the go by sending and receiving messages, making calls and sharing their location with friends and family through LiveTrack. When adventures extend beyond cellular coverage, built-in inReach technology provides access to two-way satellite messaging, location sharing and SOS services through Garmin Response, our 24/7-staffed emergency coordination center.

Smarter navigation

MARQ (Gen 3) brings point-to-point navigation to your wrist with a new address search feature and worldwide preloaded maps.

Simply enter an address directly on the watch and receive guidance to your destination. It’s a simple addition, but one that can make a big difference when traveling somewhere new or navigating an unfamiliar area.

Introducing MARQ Diver

MARQ (Gen 3) also introduces a new addition to the collection: MARQ Diver. Designed for those who spend time on or around the water, it combines a refined marine-inspired design with specialized boating and diving features.

Its arrival also marks an important milestone for the MARQ family. For the first time, every MARQ (Gen 3) model features leakproof buttons and is rated for dives up to 40 meters, bringing added protection and peace of mind wherever the day leads.

Is it time to upgrade?

If you’ve enjoyed the craftsmanship and performance of MARQ (Gen 2), MARQ (Gen 3) delivers meaningful upgrades across the board.

Whether you’re upgrading for the added connectivity, improved navigation or enhanced everyday convenience, MARQ (Gen 3) is designed to help you get even more from your watch. Explore our newest additions to the MARQ family and discover the luxury watch designed for your passion.

¹_{Active plan required; LTE network coverage is not available in all regions. Satellite connection and SOS functionality on this device have important limitations compared to other inReach devices that could affect the performance of connected features, making them unavailable in certain situations. Check Garmin.com/marqfeaturerequirements for requirements and limitations and to see which services are accessible in your area — or in areas to where you may be traveling to ensure the performance, coverage, and service levels of this device are suitable for your intended use.}

The post What’s new with MARQ (Gen 3)? appeared first on Garmin Stories.

Gifts for the go-getter

Forerunner® 70/170: GPS running smartwatches

With personalized beginner-friendly training plans and advanced training metrics, these GPS running smartwatches can help them reach their goals. They feature bright, colorful displays, 80+ built-in sports apps and optional music right on their wrist.

Forerunner 970: Premium GPS running and triathlon smartwatch

Purpose-built for performance-driven athletes, this GPS running smartwatch features a bright, colorful display, plus advanced training and recovery features — as well as a built-in flashlight and enhanced navigation.

HRM 600: Heart rate monitor

This premium heart rate monitor provides accurate heart rate and expanded running dynamics¹ — plus stand-alone activity recording.

Varia RearVue 820: Advanced rearview radar and tail light

It’s our most powerful and precise radar yet, with a wider field of view for more reliable alerts. This tail light offers up to 2 kilometer of visibility and has a brake light that shows when the rider is slowing or stopping.

Varia Vue: Cycling headlight and 4K camera

Upgrade their ride with this headlight camera² that records 4K video (requires memory card; not included) and shows them the way with up to 600 lumens of light intensity.

Edge® 550 | 850: Cycling computers

These compact GPS cycling computers feature vivid color displays, performance insights, training guidance, smart fueling alerts³ and more. Edge 550 features rugged buttons, while Edge 850 includes buttons and a touchscreen display.

Rally 110 | 210: Power meter pedals

Let them track their performance with these single- and dual-sensing power meter pedals that provide accurate power data and can be easily swapped between our road and off-road pedal bodies.

TrainingPeaks Virtual: Indoor cycling app

Train together in an immersive indoor cycling platform built to deliver real results. They’ll get structured workouts, realistic racing and the freedom to ride any course, anytime. Plus, seamlessly sync with TrainingPeaks and the Garmin Connect app to turn every indoor ride into measurable, real-world fitness gains.

Gifts for the mindful mover

Venu® 4: Premium health and fitness GPS smartwatch

They’ve got goals and want an on-wrist coach to guide them toward a healthier lifestyle. This advanced smartwatch with an AMOLED display, metal design and built-in flashlight is it.

CIRQA Smart Band: Screenless health and fitness tracker

Track all day. Look later. This discreet, screenless smart band provides advanced 24/7 health monitoring⁴ as well as fitness features with no subscription required. It’s available with a variety of comfortable and stylish fabric bands.

vívoactive® 6: Health and fitness GPS smartwatch

Featuring a bright, colorful display and purpose-built health and fitness features, this smartwatch gives them the tools and insights they need to know their body better.

Lily® 2 Active: Small fashion smartwatch

This small, stylish smartwatch has built-in GPS and essential health, fitness and smartwatch features to help them feel good — inside and out.

Index Sleep Monitor: Smart sleep band

Give them a more comprehensive view of their sleep and recovery with this lightweight smart band that tracks their sleep⁴ while maximizing comfort.

Gifts for the outdoor enthusiast

fēnix® 9 | 9 Pro: Premium multisport GPS smartwatch

Built for serious athletes and adventurers, these premium multisport GPS smartwatches thrive on turning effort into achievement. They feature advanced training and performance features, rugged designs and optional inReach® technology⁵.

tactix® 8: Premium tactical GPS smartwatch

They’re built for the mission. They need a smartwatch that is too. Give them the ultimate tactical smartwatch with an AMOLED display or solar charging lens.

Instinct® 3: Rugged GPS smartwatch

Help them take on their next adventure with this rugged GPS smartwatch featuring a super tough design, solar charging lens or AMOLED display and a bold look all its own.

Descent Mk3 | Mk3i: Premium watch-style dive computers

These advanced dive computers and smartwatches help them make the most of their diving experience with optional SubWave sonar-based communication and air integration⁶. Plus, get multisport training and smart features for their life out of the water.

Descent X30: Rugged dive computer

This dive computer features a vibrant 2.4″ display and a housing and bezel made with recycled ocean-bound plastics. With 4 large metal buttons, long battery life and support for multiple dive profiles, it’s perfect for their next dive.

Approach® G82: Launch monitor and premium GPS golf handheld

This portable launch monitor and premium GPS golf handheld features a built-in radar to track club head speed, ball speed, smash factor, swing tempo, estimated distance and putting stroke tempo. It also has 43,000+ preloaded courses with our full suite of golf features.

Approach S72: Premium GPS golf smartwatch

Our most advanced golf smartwatch features a lightweight titanium bezel, ComfortFit fabric band and 43,000+ preloaded courses with the data they need to help lower their score. Plus, they can look back after the round to analyze all their metrics.

inReach® Mini 3 Plus: SOS satellite communicator

Stay connected with this rugged SOS satellite communicator⁵ featuring a color touchscreen display and built-in speaker and microphone, plus the ability to send texts, photos and voice messages⁷ with an active plan.

GPSMAP® H1i Plus: Premium GPS handheld

Journey out with added peace of mind, thanks to built-in inReach® technology⁵on this rugged GPS handheld navigator, which provides phone-free text, photo and voice messaging. Plus, enjoy preloaded maps and incredible battery life.

Gifts for the road runner

Garmin Dash Cam X Series: Premium dash cameras

For drivers who want an eyewitness on the road, these voice-controlled dash cameras record up to 4K ultra HD video⁸ and include a Garmin Clarity polarizer lens, so they’ll see all the important video details.

Tread® 2: Powersport navigator

This rugged, glove-friendly 6″ off-road navigator helps them find a path through dirt, snow, rain and more with turn-by-turn navigation⁹ for unpaved roads and trails.

Garmin Drive Series: GPS navigators

From road trips to daily commutes, these sleek, modern GPS navigators can get them to their destination with ease via high-resolution, ultrawide displays.

zūmo® XT3: Motorcycle navigator

From the road to the track, this motorcycle navigator enhances every corner, chicane and straightaway. It’s built to withstand extreme weather and handlebar vibration, and features detailed maps, route planning, group tracking and more.

Gifts for the aquatic adventurer

quatix® 8 Pro: Premium marine GPS smartwatch

This high-performance nautical smartwatch features a stunning AMOLED display, titanium bezel and built-in LED flashlight — alongside helpful tools for life on and off the water, including inReach® technology¹⁰ for satellite and LTE connectivity.

Garmin OnBoard System: Engine cutoff system

Built so they can move freely and boat confidently, the Garmin OnBoard system uses wireless tags instead of traditional tethered cords to kill the engine during an overboard emergency.

ECHOMAP Ultra 2 16″: Chartplotter

Designed with the serious angler in mind, this 16″ chartplotter with a full HD resolution display brings the ultimate in big-picture clarity, brightness and readability to their navigation mapping and sonar returns.

Spy Pole: Motorized sonar control

Let them take full command of their sonar with this revolutionary motorized control for LiveScope and GT360UHD transducers. Spy Pole can initiate a 360-degree scan of the water and give them full control of their LiveScope with smart control modes.

LiveScope 2 HD: Live sonar transducer

They’ve never seen live-scanning sonar of this clarity. This transducer offers increased resolution, integrated image stabilization and improved stitching, so they’ll clearly see fish and lures.

JL Audio® A60 Stereo: Marine head unit

Enjoy high-quality audio on the open water with this sleek marine head unit featuring a 2.95″ high-resolution color display. It includes built-in Digital Signal Processing technology that optimizes their listening experience to reduce noise, distortion and interference.

JL Audio® M200: Marine speakers and subwoofers

These speakers and subwoofers are designed to enhance their experience on the water with clean and powerful sound. They’re available in a variety of sizes and feature optional RGB LED lighting to add extra atmosphere to every note.

Gifts for the sky seeker

D2 Mach 2 | 2 Pro: Premium aviator smartwatches

Designed for life in the world of flight, these aviator smartwatches combine classic styling with bright AMOLED touchscreen displays, advanced flight mapping, voice commands, a built-in LED flashlight and optional inReach® technology¹¹ for LTE and satellite connectivity.

D2 Air X15: Premium aviator smartwatch

This aviator smartwatch helps them fly through the day with GPS Direct-to navigation, aviation weather information¹², a built-in LED flashlight, voice commands and multiple health and fitness features.

Gifts for the curious kid

Bounce 2: Kids smartwatch

Delay a smartphone purchase with this kids smartwatch that helps their child stay active while also allowing for calling, texting and location tracking¹³.

Approach® J1: Kids golf watch

This GPS golf watch is made to help junior golfers learn and improve. It features a slim, lightweight design and simplified interface that focuses on the most important information, based on how they play.

Gifts for the hardcore hobbyist

Blaze: Equine wellness system

This easy-to-use tail wrap and sensor gives them insights into their horse’s health and fitness so they can make more informed decisions around well-being and training. They can even see real-time stats on their smartphone or Garmin smartwatch with the Blaze app.

Approach® R50: Premium golf launch monitor and simulator

Give them a tee time anytime with this premium golf launch monitor and simulator, featuring a 10″ built-in color touchscreen and precision metrics captured by 3 high-speed cameras.

Xero® L60i: Laser rangefinder

This revolutionary rangefinder lets them see their target with a full-color, high-resolution graphic display overlay and razor-sharp optics featuring 7X magnification. It includes navigation features, onboard ballistics and ranging of animals out to 1,500 yards.

Alpha® LTE: Dog tracker

This LTE-enabled dog tracker attaches to a dog’s collar and allows their movements to be tracked on a compatible smartphone (active plan required).

Give a Garmin this season and browse our complete collection of offerings.

¹_{When paired with your Garmin smartwatch}

²_{Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit use of the camera function of this device. It is your responsibility to know and comply with applicable laws and rights to privacy in jurisdictions where you plan to use the camera function of this device.}

³_{When paired with compatible power meter and heart rate monitor}

⁴_{See Garmin.com/ataccuracy}

⁵_{Active plan required; LTE network coverage is not available in all regions. Satellite connection and SOS functionality on this device have important limitations compared to other inReach devices that could affect the performance of connected features, making them unavailable in certain situations. Check Garmin.com/fenix9profeaturerequirements for requirements and limitations and to see which services are accessible in your area — or in areas to where you may be traveling to ensure the performance, coverage and service levels of this device are suitable for your intended use.}

⁶_{Additional equipment (sold separately) and device pairing required}

⁷_{Photo and voice messaging requires use of the Garmin Messenger app on your compatible smartphone}

⁸_{Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit use of the camera function of this device. It is your responsibility to know and comply with applicable laws and rights to privacy in jurisdictions where you plan to use the camera function of this device.}

⁹_{Limitations may exist in map data for some road and trail route suggestions. Always defer to all posted road signs and conditions during vehicle operation. Garmin products using OpenStreetMap data are intended to be used only as supplementary travel aids.}

¹⁰_{Active plan required; LTE network coverage is not available in all regions, e.g., satellite coverage up to 50 miles offshore. Satellite connection and SOS functionality on this device have important limitations compared to other inReach devices that could affect the performance of connected features, making them unavailable in certain situations. Check Garmin.com/quatix8profeaturerequirements for requirements and limitations and to see which services are accessible in your area — or in areas to where you may be traveling to ensure the performance, coverage and service levels of this device are suitable for your intended use.}

¹¹_{Active plan required; LTE network coverage is not available in all regions. Not for use in-flight. Satellite connection and SOS functionality on this device have important limitations compared to other inReach devices that could affect the performance of connected features, making them unavailable in certain situations. Check Garmin.com/d2mach2profeaturerequirements for requirements and limitations and to see which services are accessible in your area — or in areas to where you may be traveling to ensure the performance, coverage and service levels of this device are suitable for your intended use}

¹²_{When paired with your smartphone, with a data connection, and in range of Bluetooth® technology}

¹³_{To use LTE features on each device, an active plan and LTE connectivity are required; see LTE coverage area at Garmin.com/bounce2ltecoverage}

_{OpenStreetMap is a trademark of the OpenStreetMap Foundation and is used with their permission. This product is not endorsed by or affiliated with the OpenStreetMap Foundation.}

_{The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Garmin is under license.}

The post Garmin holiday gift guide appeared first on Garmin Stories.

We all keep a close eye on our smartphone notifications to stay connected to family, friends and whoever else might need to get ahold of us. But you don’t always need to be glued to your phone to stay connected. With a Garmin smartwatch, you can keep an eye on your notifications without your phone ever leaving your pocket.

Staying connected

Compatible with either your Apple^® or Android smartphone, you can get a lot when you pair with a Garmin smartwatch. In addition to next-level battery life, activity profiles for just about any sport and advanced physiological data tracking, your Garmin smartwatch makes it easy to stay connected to what matters with a flick of the wrist.

Receive notifications

Any notification you allow, such as texts, calls, calendar reminders and emails, will go from your phone straight to your watch. If you have an Android, you can even respond directly to messages from select watches using our predetermined response options. And select smartwatches, like Venu^® 4, come with a built-in speaker and mic so you can take and make calls from your watch or use your paired smartphone’s voice assistant to send text messages, ask questions and more.

Find your phone

Skip the panicked feeling you get when you realize your phone isn’t on you. Instead, use your connected Garmin smartwatch to sound an alarm from your phone with the Find My Phone feature. Follow the sound and quickly track your device down.

Added peace of mind

Garmin smartwatch users can use LiveTrack, fall detection¹ (only on Venu 4), incident detection¹ and the assistance feature to help provide peace of mind for family and friends.

LiveTrack keeps a real-time view of your location during a GPS activity so your preselected contacts can see where you are when you venture out for your next jog. If you choose to share the information with them, they’ll be able to see your current location, the duration of the activity, the distance you’ve traveled, your heart rate and more. Learn more about LiveTrack on our support page.

For all-day or activity-specific monitoring, Venu 4 users can enable fall detection¹. If your Venu 4 smartwatch detects a fall, it can send a message¹ with your live location (if available) to designated assistance contacts. 

With incident detection, an automated message including your name and GPS location (if available) will be sent to designated assistance contacts if your watch detects an incident. To utilize this feature, pair the Garmin Connect app with your smartphone.

Those in need of help can manually activate the assistance feature. Whether you’re in the middle of an activity or not, you can manually notify your designated assistance contacts with a message that includes your name, LiveTrack link and GPS location (if available).

Garmin smartwatches that include inReach^® connectivity for LTE and satellite coverage allow users to communicate with loved ones back home². Once connected to the LTE network, send up to 30-second voice messages as well as make or answer phone calls from your smartwatch to users with a compatible smartwatch or those who are Garmin Messenger app users. For support from Garmin Response℠, a 24/7 international emergency coordination center², activate an SOS alert on your smartwatch or Garmin Messenger app.

Tracking your health and fitness

Garmin Connect also includes your health and fitness data in one place so you can easily view the metrics your watch is tracking and access additional features such as Garmin Coach plans and workouts. Plus, help meet your nutrition goals through tracking and logging with a Garmin Connect+ plan.

Ready to stay connected without staring at your phone screen all day? Explore Garmin smartwatch offerings to find the wearable that’s meant for you.

¹_{When paired with your smartphone; see Garmin.com/ble. For safety and tracking feature requirements and limitations, see Garmin.com/safety.}

²_{Active plan required; LTE network coverage is not available in all regions. Satellite connection and SOS functionality on this device have important limitations compared to other inReach devices that could affect the performance of connected features, making them unavailable in certain situations. Check Garmin.com/fenix9profeaturerequirements for requirements and limitations and to see which services are accessible in your area — or in areas to where you may be traveling to ensure the performance, coverage and service levels of this device are suitable for your intended use.}

_{Apple is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Android is a trademark of Google LLC.}

The post Yes, Garmin smartwatches work with your phone appeared first on Garmin Stories.

Tired of guessing which golf club to use because you can’t tell where the pin is on the green? What if you could account for wind and uphill or downhill shots? What if you could understand where the hazards are with a quick glance at a screen?

With Garmin, you can.

Now you’ll know if you should or shouldn’t hit a driver. You’ll know how to avoid different hazards.

It’s time to upgrade your golf game with a rangefinder. We’re here to help.

Why should you buy a golf rangefinder?

Rangefinders tell you how far away the pin is, helping you choose your golf club and plan your path to the hole.

Garmin rangefinders — such as Approach^® Z10, Approach Z30 or Approach Z82 — use a laser to calculate the distance, ensuring greater accuracy. For example, while a golf watch can give you the distance to the front, middle and back of the green, a rangefinder gives you the precise distance to the pin (and several other features designed to bring out the best in your game, but we’ll get to those below).

What’s the best Garmin golf rangefinder for you?

Garmin offers a full lineup of laser rangefinders: Approach Z10, Approach Z30 and Approach Z82. All include an adjustable eyepiece that allows you to focus the screen, PlaysLike Distance and 6X magnification. They come with a carrying case and a carabiner so you can clip them to your bag. Approach Z10 and Z30 also have a magnetic cart mount, so you can snap your rangefinder to your golf cart.

If you lose your rangefinder on the fairway (or anywhere, let’s be honest), you can use Find My Garmin through the Garmin Golf app to locate it.

Plus, the PlaysLike Distance feature will adjust your yardage based on whether your target is uphill or downhill.

Tournament mode, which disables the PinPointer and PlaysLike Distance features, is shown by an external indicator light and can be turned on and off. This means you can still take your rangefinder to tournaments.

Here’s how a few of the different rangefinders’ features break down.

Laser range arc: The Approach Z10 and Z30 rangefinders offer the Range Relay feature, which sends distances to your compatible Garmin device or the Garmin Golf app. On Approach Z82, your arc will appear through your viewfinder. The laser range arc shows everything in play at the laser-ranged distance — even hazards.

Viewfinder built-ins: Approach Z82 has built-in GPS with more than 43,000 full-color, preloaded courses, the green view feature with distance to the front, middle and back of the green, hazard view, and PinPointer — all in the viewfinder. When paired to your compatible phone, Approach Z82 also displays wind speed and direction in the viewfinder.

Battery life: Approach Z10 and Z30 have a replaceable CR2 battery that can last up to a year. The Approach Z82 battery is rechargeable with up to 15 hours of battery life in GPS mode.

Accuracy: The laser range to the flag on Approach Z10 is 350 yards, while Approach Z30 ranges 400 yards. Both have accuracy within 1 yard. Approach Z82 can measure distances from up to 450 yards and will give you a reading within 10″ of the flag.

Water-resistant: Approach Z10 is IPX4-rated, meaning it’s built to withstand splashing and light rain. Your Approach Z30 or Z82 rangefinder has been tested to withstand submersion in up to a meter of water.

To get the distance to the pin from up to 350 yards away, consider Approach Z10. For slightly longer ranging and a higher water rating, go for Approach Z30. Both are the perfect companions to your Garmin golf smartwatch or handheld. If you want the most accurate reading within 10″ of the flag, plus built-in GPS with more than 43,000 preloaded, full-color course maps right from your viewfinder, go for Approach Z82.

Ready to take your best shot and improve your golf game? No more misjudging the distance and launching your golf ball into a water hazard or bunker. Browse our collection of launch monitors, rangefinders and smartwatches.

The post What’s the best Garmin golf laser rangefinder for you? appeared first on Garmin Stories.

You’re serious about the adventure, and we’re serious about the equipment you’ll need along the way

Because every excursion deserves equipment you can count on, your trusted Garmin fēnix® 8 smartwatch has been your rugged outdoor smartwatch of choice.

It’s helped you train for upcoming races and served as your trusted trail companion, thanks to its durable design and long battery life. Plus, it’s tracked your health and fitness data¹, calculated routes with enhanced mapping, prepared you for your next race with Garmin Coach plans and more.

Now you’re curious if it’s worth upgrading to a Garmin fēnix 9 or fēnix 9 Pro smartwatch. Luckily, you’ve come to the right place.

If you’re interested in making a fēnix 9 smartwatch your new adventure companion, keep reading as we break down the differences between fēnix 8 and 9.

1. Model sizes

Built to withstand the toughest adventures, fēnix 8 Pro features a sleek titanium bezel and rear case that’s military tested for thermal, shock, water (IPX7) and vibration.

A first for Garmin, fēnix 9 Pro features a titanium bezel and case design. While engineered for maximum durability, this design stays authentic to the premium look and feel fēnix users love.

The adventurer who prefers a lightweight, slimmer watch will appreciate that in some cases, fenix 9 Pro offers a slimmer overall profile. For example, the fēnix 9 Pro 47 mm model is 16% slimmer than the fēnix 8 Pro 47 mm model.

2. Hardware

With an advanced model comes advanced hardware. The fēnix 9 smartwatch was purpose-built to run smoother with twice the amount of RAM and an updated map engine that makes panning 30% faster. Plus, store twice as many maps and up to 7,000 of your favorite songs from your Spotify, Deezer or Amazon Music accounts for phone-free listening (subscription may be required) with double the amount of memory (64 GB).

That’s not all. fēnix 9 Pro comes equipped with an additional green flashlight option, providing the contrast and clarity you need for night hunting, map reading and tactical missions.

3. Display brightness

Whether you’re exploring during low visibility or peak sunlight hours, fēnix 9 has AMOLED displays that are twice as bright as fēnix 8 displays. The fēnix 9 Pro smartwatch display reaches up to 3,000 nits of brightness so the data on your wrist will always be easy to see.

Prefer a screen that’s bigger? The fēnix 9 Pro AMOLED smartwatch features a 51 mm case with a display that’s 1.5% bigger than previous generations.

4. inReach® connectivity

fēnix 8 Pro helped set the standard for multisport GPS smartwatches with built-in connectivity. Thanks to satellite connectivity, both fēnix 8 Pro and fēnix 9 Pro users can receive and exchange text messages with family and friends directly from their watch or smartphone with the Garmin Messenger app. If in need of help, users can also trigger an SOS message to connect with Garmin Response, our 24/7-staffed emergency coordination center.

With LTE connectivity, fēnix 8 and fēnix 9 Pro users can initiate and receive phone calls with other Garmin Messenger app users straight from the wrist. Plus, LTE connectivity allows fēnix 9 Pro users to enable LiveTrack location sharing². Through Garmin Messenger, share your LiveTrack location with your contacts so they can follow or reach you during your excursion. Plus, family and friends who are curious about your whereabouts can use Garmin Locate to see your current or last known location.

In preparation for the journey ahead, explorers with a fēnix 9 Pro smartwatch and Garmin Messenger can stay up to date on current weather conditions and forecasts through satellite and LTE.

Unlike previous generations, fēnix 9 Pro brings inReach connectivity to all 3 case sizes and fēnix 9 Pro Solar models, so you can access LTE and satellite features in a smaller watch without sacrificing the features you rely on.

5. Features and enhancements

fēnix 9 includes feature enhancements to help athletes and adventurers better understand their performance during training, racing and exploring.

For a more complete view of any extended adventure, users can combine multiple days of activities into a single experience with Garmin Epic in the Garmin Connect app. Whether you’re embarking on a weeklong backpacking trip or you’re at a training camp preparing for an upcoming triathlon, Garmin Epic can analyze summary stats and show you how you’ve progressed. Once you’ve started an Epic, you can track health summary stats, performance summary and trends, individual sports performance metrics, and acclimation and evaluation metrics.

Plus, fēnix 9 enhances stamina features so athletes can better understand the connection between endurance and performance. Stamina Curves helps users set their pace and hit PRs by seeing how their stamina is impacted over varying distances and how it changes as they progress in their training. Stamina Zones helps runners and cyclists manage exertion throughout a race through metrics such as managed stamina versus potential stamina.

Users can also check out rowing and rucking enhancements. Rowers will enjoy metrics like rowing VO2 max, curve power, functional threshold power and lactic threshold to help them manage their intensity and see how their training is impacting their fitness and performance. Military personnel or those wearing weighted vests on everyday walks can use rucking enhancements to create custom workouts around their target metric, such as calories burned, while inputting weight data for better tracking.

Before you head out on your next outdoor expedition or training run, be sure to bring along your fēnix 9 premium GPS smartwatch.

_{¹See Garmin.com/ataccuracy}

_{²Active plan required; LTE network coverage is not available in all regions. Satellite connection and SOS functionality on this device have important limitations compared to other inReach devices that could affect the performance of connected features, making them unavailable in certain situations. Check Garmin.com/fenix9profeaturerequirements for requirements and limitations and to see which services are accessible in your area — or in areas to where you may be traveling to ensure the performance, coverage and service levels of this device are suitable for your intended use.}

The post The difference between fēnix 8 and 9 appeared first on Garmin Stories.

Take your golf game to the next level with a Garmin golf watch with GPS.

Who’s ready to hit the links? Whether you golf for a living or just play for fun with friends, you’ll want to consider getting a leg up on the competition with a Garmin GPS golf watch before you aim for the fairway.

From the innovative Approach^® lineup to the MARQ^® Golfer premium tool watch, Garmin has a variety of award-winning golf watch options. But don’t worry — we’re here to help you decide which feature-packed watch makes the most sense for you and your golf game.

For golfers looking to cover the basics with their golf watch:

Approach S12: This GPS golf watch provides the golfing essentials. It is value-packed with up to 30 hours of battery life, allowing your game to outlast the day’s sunlight. With more than 43,000 preloaded golf courses, it comes with a high-resolution monochrome display for easy readability even on those extra-sunny days. Curious about how far you are from the hole? You can quickly reference the front, middle and back of the green to give you an edge. If you’re the competitive type, ditch the scorecard and keep score directly on the Garmin Golf app¹.

For those who want upgraded essentials:

Approach S44: Enjoy the same features that come with S12 but take it to the next level with S44, which provides a stunning colorful 1.2″ AMOLED touchscreen display. You can automatically track where your shots land with AutoShot game tracking². With the green view feature, you can see each green’s shape from anywhere on the course. Plus, with a Garmin Golf membership, you can get premium features such as Premium CourseView maps, touch targeting and green contour data.

For on and off the course:

Approach S50: This advanced GPS smartwatch gives you the features you need to help you on the course and a stylish design that looks good off the course. On the course, the ComfortFit nylon strap won’t interfere with your swing. With the 1.2″ AMOLED touchscreen display, you can easily see key yardages to the green, hazards and layups on more than 43,000 courses. The PlaysLike Distance feature tells you how far each shot is playing with yardage adjusted for elevation changes. In addition to preloaded activities to help you improve your strength and mobility, it offers health and wellness features, including wrist-based heart rate, stress tracking, Body Battery energy monitoring, advanced sleep monitoring and more³. Add on a Garmin Golf membership, and you’ll gain access to even more — including Premium CourseView maps, touch targeting and green contour data.

For golfers who want premium features:

Approach S70: This one is the brightest of the Approach bunch. A premium GPS golf smartwatch with a 1.2″ or 1.4″ AMOLED touchscreen display, the S70 comes in two sizes and can help you improve your game on and off the course. It boasts a virtual caddie feature (shout-out to the dispersion chart that displays hazards in play, depending on club choice) and enhanced PlaysLike Distance, which accounts for changes in elevation and environmental conditions. Plus, understanding slopes on the green has never been easier with green contour data, available with an active Garmin Golf membership. Combine it all with preloaded fitness apps for strength, HIIT, running and more, and just like that, you have a complete golf smartwatch that can help you improve your game on and off the course.

For those who love luxury and all the features:

MARQ Golfer (Gen 2) Titanium and Carbon Editions: If you demand the finest and most modern golf watch, the MARQ Golfer Titanium and Carbon editions are right up your alley … or fairway, shall we say? MARQ Golfer – Titanium Edition is built of Grade-5 titanium, and it features a tritone green jacquard-weave nylon strap; MARQ Golfer – Carbon Edition is made from fused carbon fiber material and has a perforated FKM leather hybrid strap.

Both MARQ watches feature a domed sapphire lens that provides a crystal-clear view of the stunning AMOLED display. Get up to 16 days of battery life in smartwatch mode so you never have to worry about losing a charge. You can hit your peak golf performance with the virtual caddie feature, green contour data⁴ and more. Plus, track your sleep and heart rate and hit the gym with countless health and wellness features. Quite frankly, these golf watches are loaded with features to help you conquer the course, round after round.

For golfers looking to maximize data:

OK, this isn’t a watch. But hear us out: The Approach^® CT10 club tracking sensors or Approach CT1 club tracking tags for shot-tracking capabilities will give you a clearer picture of your game. Both record club type, shot locations and distance when paired with your Garmin golf watch. You can also pair each one with the Garmin Golf app for strokes gained analysis, to participate in leaderboards and tournaments, and to gain more data about your game.

With CT10 sensors, you’ll get automatic club tracking round after round. After securing these sensors to your clubs and pairing to your compatible golf device, you’re all set. You don’t have to do anything else before you take a shot.

When golfing with the lightweight CT1 tracking tags, you’ll need to tap to pair CT1 with your compatible golf watch before every shot.

Both CT1 and CT10 are compatible with a variety of devices, including Approach S44, Approach S50 and Approach S70. For the latest list of compatible devices, visit the CT10 and CT1 product pages.

For your junior golfers:

Approach J1: The first GPS golf watch specifically designed for junior golfers, Approach J1 is built to help them learn the game and track performance. The slim, lightweight design and ComfortFit fabric band fit smaller wrists without getting in the way of a swing. Tee-off guidance gives real-time, on-screen direction on where to tee off on every hole, using forward tee locations across more than 43,000 preloaded courses. Personal par sets scoring goals based on a junior’s current ability, adjusting as their game improves and adding celebratory animations for making par or better. A pace-of-play timer rounds things out, with a simple visual cue that helps young golfers understand if they’re keeping pace on a hole. It’s a simplified interface built entirely around learning and improving.

Have a better idea now of which Garmin golf watch is right for you? Shop here.

_{¹Requires app on your compatible smartphone paired to the Approach S12}

_{²Lie and ball contact may affect shot tracking. Putts are not tracked. Some shots, particularly chip shots around the green, may not be tracked.}

_{³See Garmin.com/ataccuracy}

_{⁴With a Garmin Golf membership}

The post What’s the best Garmin golf watch for me? appeared first on Garmin Stories.

Lifelong diver Justin Packshaw shares insights on diving with Garmin

Below the surface, in the nutrient-dense waters of the Galápagos Islands, Justin Packshaw watches as a whale shark nearly the length of a bowling lane swims slowly against the current. If Packshaw reaches out, he could touch it.

Above him, the Garmin Descent S1 buoy keeps Packshaw feeling secure and connected to the surface team.

Packshaw, with decades of diving experience ranging from recreational dives to polar expeditions, recently visited the Galápagos Islands as part of a team researching the migration patterns of hammerhead sharks.

He used the Descent S1 Buoy, along with the Descent Mk3i dive computer, Descent T2 transceiver and inReach® Mini 2 with a dive case, every step of the way.

“All of it is super useful,” Packshaw said. “It’s very, very smart, it’s easy to use and I think it’s very beneficial.”

Communicate with your dive team through SubWave sonar technology

Dealing with the high-current environment and even diving at night, awareness was key for Packshaw and his team.

Through SubWave sonar technology, divers can stay connected to those around them. Here’s how it works: You transmit data from your Garmin dive computer (Descent Mk3i or Descent X50i) to the Descent S1 buoy, when paired to a Descent T2 transceiver. That then transfers your data to the Garmin Dive app for the topside crew¹.

Our SubWave technology on Descent S1 helps the topside crew track diver tank pressure, depth and their approximate locations. Plus, divers can stay connected with crew through preset messages on Garmin dive computers. Those preset messages mean the topside crew can alert divers if there’s a situation they need to know about. And when divers use a connected Descent dive computer, they can tell the surface team where they are, where they’re going, if they need to surface early and their remaining decompression time².

The Descent S1 buoy also extends the range of diver-to-diver messaging¹ up to 100 meters away, compared to 30 meters when divers use only a Descent dive computer and T2 transceiver.

This added awareness helped Packshaw monitor his team, especially when dealing with limited visibility during night dives.

“From a safety perspective, it’s a game changer,” Packshaw said. “Ultimately, it just gives you a feeling of safety knowing that you can be in touch with people.”

Learn from each dive with heatmaps and post-dive data

After dives, Packshaw would review heatmaps of where he explored and examine his dive data.

“The information is extrapolated and goes straight into your Garmin Dive app which then regurgitates that information into something which is palatable for you to understand. That is fantastic,” Packshaw said. “It’s very interesting to dissect and look at what those features are and how they affect your heart rate and your air consumption.”

Navigate with confidence

SubWave technology’s capability of providing the approximate locations of divers helped provide peace of mind to Packshaw, the lead diver. The topside crew could track the approximate range to each diver in the SubWave sonar network, up to 100 meters away from the Descent S1 buoy. Networked divers could also see the distances and directions back to the Descent S1 buoy, providing clear return-to-base references and increased situational awareness¹.

Even if Packshaw was dealing with low visibility during a night dive, he could still see where his team was.

“It’s a sort of safety thing and it’s reassuring from a leadership perspective, but it’s also reassuring for everyone else upwards,” Packshaw said.

On the surface, the Descent S1 buoy uses multiple satellite systems to aid signal reception in challenging environments.

In the case that he would need to trigger an SOS and contact 24/7 Garmin Response℠, the inReach® Mini 2 and dive case provided additional peace of mind on the surface.

Garmin devices were key for Packshaw not only on his Galápagos mission, but for the many expeditions he’s taken over the years. He’ll have Garmin at his side during the next one, too.

¹_{Conditions such as surface, waves, chop, objects and diver position can obstruct the signal and reduce range; for more details, visit Garmin.com/subwave}

²_{Some compatible dive computers can receive, but not send, messages. Conditions such as surface, waves, chop, objects and diver position can obstruct the signal and reduce range; for more details, visit Garmin.com/subwave.}

The post Why you should dive with the Garmin Descent S1 buoy appeared first on Garmin Stories.

What’s included in an Outdoor Maps+ plan?

Outdoor Maps+ layers premium content on top of high-detail topographic maps already preloaded on compatible fēnix® smartwatches and rugged handhelds such as the GPSMAP® 67i or Montana® handhelds. When you activate a plan on the Garmin Explore app, you unlock:

• Enhanced topographic maps with high-quality elevation mapping with premium contours and maximum detail
• High-definition relief shading that helps display elevations changes and terrain features
• High-resolution satellite imagery
• Garmin Trails, a curated and filterable collection of detailed trails with ratings, reviews and photos
• TrailMaps and detailed raster maps
• Content for winter and snow-related activities, including SkiView maps and SnowView maps
• Night Lights helps identify the best stargazing locations
• Points of interest, including campgrounds, shelters, scenic spots and more
• Hunting and fish features for multiuse adventurers, including land boundaries and public access data

Content updates regularly and delivers directly to your compatible Garmin device via Wi-Fi® connectivity. You can access these premium maps through the Garmin Explore app too, useful for planning before you ever leave your kitchen table. It can also be accessed through the Alpha® or Tread® apps.

What hikers actually use Outdoor Maps+ for

Planning a route is one thing. Using your maps in the field is another.

Alessandro Morolla¹, a full-time outdoor filmmaker and content creator, uses Outdoor Maps+ with his fēnix® 8 Pro and GPSMAP® 67i handheld across remote mountain terrain worldwide. For him, the value shows up before the hike even starts.

“The maps are detailed, reliable, and made route planning in the mountains much more precise,” Morolla said. “Knowing in advance what kind of terrain and challenges you’ll face makes any outdoor adventure, especially in the mountains, feel a little bit safer and more under control.”

That preparation paid off during a hiking trip in the Dolomites in northeastern Italy. When an unexpected thunderstorm rolled in, Morolla used Outdoor Maps+ to locate nearby shelter quickly.

“Having access to that kind of detailed map information in real time made a real difference in terms of safety and peace of mind,” said Morollo, who also enjoys the satellite imagery and trail overlays to scout filming locations, topographic lines to assess elevation gain and the best stargazing spots thanks to the Night Lights layer.

For Caziah Rashad Franklin, an adventurer and storyteller, Outdoor Maps+ came through during an expedition up Mt. Kilimanjaro.

“Although we had required guides along the route, Outdoor Maps+ provided additional information that helped us determine how to regulate our pace, diet, hydration and rest in correlation with elevation gain,” Franklin said.

His go-to layer? Enhanced topo maps, which provides high-detail elevation with premium contours and land boundaries.

“It provides a lot of key details that I really appreciate, especially elevation data,” said Franklin, who has plans to use Outdoor Maps+ on expeditions where detailed information adds a meaningful layer of confidence. “It’s extremely helpful for finding campsites and ensuring the land is public and available for resting.”

How to get started

Outdoor Maps+ works with compatible Garmin smartwatches, handhelds and navigators, and integrates with the Garmin Explore, Alpha and Tread apps. Once you activate a plan, map content automatically carries over to your compatible Garmin device, content syncs automatically so your maps are ready when you are.

If you’re serious about hiking, try it free today.

_{¹The individuals featured in this post are Garmin ambassadors and may receive compensation from Garmin through product and/or fees.}

The post What is Outdoor Maps+? And why you should use it for hiking appeared first on Garmin Stories.