Do you want a trail with waterfalls? Or one that’s dog friendly? No matter what type of hike you’re looking for, Garmin Trails can help you find the right one.

What is Garmin Trails?

Garmin Trails, a curated collection of trails accessible in the Garmin Connect and the Garmin Explore apps, helps you find and view routes for your next hike, backpacking trip or trail run. Coverage is available in select areas.

Choose from thousands of trails based on difficulty, distance and more. Before you head out, view trail ratings and reviews. After your hike, leave your own rating and review.

How do you use Garmin Trails?

In Garmin Connect, you’ll open the training and planning section to find Garmin Trails. The trails will then appear on the map. When you swipe across the map to see where the trails are, you’ll see a list at the bottom of the screen. Open that window to see more information on each of the trails in the area.

In the Garmin Explore app, select Map Details to access Garmin Trails. While the trails still appear on the map, you can also search for nearby trails or by name. Nearby trails can also appear in a list.

In both Garmin Connect and Garmin Explore, you’ll be able to filter by the length, ascent, rating, difficulty (easy, moderate and hard) and trail type (loop, out and back, or point to point).

Filter your search by specific features, including the following:

• Dog friendly
• Waterfalls
• Lakes
• Mountaineering
• Steep sections
• Flowers
• Kid friendly
• Permit required

Select a trail to see the full trail details, including difficulty, distance, total ascent, total descent, estimated time to complete, and community reviews with photos and descriptions.

What extra features can you access with a Garmin Connect+ or Outdoor Maps+ plan?

With an active Garmin Connect+ or Outdoor Maps+ plan, you can send a trail to your compatible device to navigate offline. You can even create a copy and save it to your courses to add points of interest or edit the path. Plus, in Garmin Connect with a Garmin Connect+ plan, access 3D topographic maps to see activity routes, courses and trails.

Garmin Trails makes it easier than ever to explore the outdoors, whatever type of journey you want to take.

The post How to use Garmin Trails to find the best hiking trails near you appeared first on Garmin Blog.

Q: Is the device supposed to warn me about having an active subscription every time I turn it on?

A: Yes. Each time you turn your device on, you will encounter the following notification:

“WARNING: MESSAGING, TRACKING, AND SOS REQUIRE AN ACTIVE SUBSCRIPTION. ALWAYS TEST YOUR DEVICE BEFORE YOU GO.”

This message is for your awareness, so you know your inReach device is fully operational before you may need it for communication or during an emergency. It does not indicate that the inReach device does not have service.

Learn more about this notification and testing your inReach device.

Q: Where does the weather forecast come from?

A: Forecasts are powered by meteoblue, a leading provider of weather data around the globe. The forecasts are based on a multi-model approach, which combines various weather models with current measurements and observations as available, specifically for the location and elevation requested. The meteoblue website provides extensive additional weather information.

Learn more about weather for inReach devices.

Q: How do I send a Check-in message?

A: Check-in messages are a convenient way to send short, predefined messages to preselected recipients from your inReach device while you are out and about. 

There are three predetermined Check-in messages that cannot be edited. They are:

• I’m checking in, everything is okay.
• I’m starting my trip.
• I’m ending my trip.

Before you leave for your adventure, you must determine your Check-in message recipients. This is done from the Garmin Explore website or in the Garmin Messenger app, under “Edit Check-in Contacts” (depending upon your device). Note: Check-in messages cannot be sent via the Earthmate^® app.

Directions on sending a Check-in message from your inReach vary depending on which device you own, but for the most part, instructions are:

1. From the inReach device home screen, press OK to open the homepage actions.
2. Select Check-In.
3. Press < or > to scroll through the three check-in message options.
4. Press OK to select a message.
5. Press OK to send the message.

For directions and more device-specific information, visit the Garmin Support Center, enter your device name into the search bar and search for Check-in messages.

Q: What are Waypoints, and how do I use them?

A: Waypoints are location points you record and store in your inReach device. Waypoints can mark where you are, where you are going or where you have been. Creating a Waypoint within the Earthmate app, Garmin Explore app or Garmin Explore website – depending on which device you use – can be shared if the Waypoint is saved within a Collection that is shown in MapShare.

Learn more about Waypoints here. For detailed information on how to set Waypoints on your specific inReach device, visit the Garmin Support Center, enter your device name in the search bar, and search for Waypoints.

Q: Which Garmin apps are compatible with my inReach device?

A: Each device connects to a Garmin app (Garmin Messenger, Garmin Explore, Earthmate) that you can download from the App Store^® or Google Play to your smartphone. Once an app is downloaded, paired and synced to your inReach device, you may enjoy expanded features for your off-grid adventures and outdoor pursuits.

See below for clarification of the apps, what they do and the devices they connect with:

Garmin Messenger App – Communication and Location Sharing: inReach Mini 3/Mini 3 Plus, fēnix® 8 Pro, quatix® 8 Pro, inReach Messenger/Messenger Plus, inReach Mini 2, GPSMAP^® H1i Plus, GPSMAP 66i/67i, GPSMAP 86i/86sci, Montana^® 700i/750i/760i, Alpha^® 200i/300i devices

Garmin Explore App – Mapping and Navigation: inReach Mini 3/Mini 3 Plus, fēnix® 8 Pro, quatix® 8 Pro, inReach Mini 2, inReach Messenger Plus, GPSMAP H1i Plus, GPSMAP 66i/67i, GPSMAP 86i/86sci, Montana 700i/750i/760i, Alpha 200i/300i devices

Earthmate® App – Communication, Mapping and Navigation: inReach Mini, inReach Explorer+, inReach SE+, DeLorme inReach devices

Q: While overnight on an adventure, should I leave my inReach on or turn it off?

A: Because most inReach devices have enough battery life for most adventures, we recommend you leave the device powered on.

If you are on a long trip and need to save battery, know this: An SOS can be initiated even if the device is not powered on. Holding down the SOS button for around 5 seconds will force the unit to power on and initiate an SOS request if you have satellite connection.

Q: I am going out of the country on vacation and want to bring my inReach satellite communicator. How do I know if my device will be supported?

A: It is your responsibility to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the satellite communication device is intended to be used. Some countries require prior permission or a government-issued registration code to activate or use satellite communication devices. Other countries completely prohibit the use or possession of satellite communicators. In addition, U.S. embargoes prohibit providing satellite communication products and services in some countries.

See a list of restricted countries here.

Q: How can a contact see my location while I’m using my inReach device?

A: Use the tracking feature on your inReach device to record track points and transmit them over the satellite network at a specified send interval. You can choose from two features that allow your contacts to view your location during an activity and follow along: LiveTrack and MapShare.

LiveTrack for inReach provides a streamlined experience for loved ones to follow your location and see data such as distance, time and elevation. You can save and review your tracked sessions on your LiveTrack profile. Here is how to set up and share your LiveTrack profile through the Garmin app or website that you use. 

MapShare for inReach is an alternative location tracking feature that gives friends and family the means to follow along, ping your location and send you messages, plus additional mapping features through the Garmin Explore website. Visit the Garmin Support Center and search by device for set up and use instructions. 

If you are currently set up for MapShare but prefer to switch to LiveTrack, click here for instructions to switch. 

For a real-life example of how inReach location and tracking features work, read about how they came in handy during a routine hunting trip.

Q: How does my partner send a message to my inReach device while I am adventuring?

A: inReach satellite communicators do not have phone numbers assigned to them, so they can only send SMS (text), email or inReach messages. inReach users must do at least one of the following for others to reach them:

• Initiate a conversation with a recipient by sending them a message so they can reply to it.
• Give access to their MapShare page so others can message them from there.
• Provide their inReach address so other inReach users can message them.
• Pair a compatible inReach device with the Garmin Messenger app on their phone.

There are five ways to send a message to an inReach device:

1. Email messaging
2. SMS (text) messaging
3. Garmin Messenger app
4. MapShare messaging
5. inReach to inReach messaging

For detailed instructions on each method, review this Garmin Support article.

Q: If I have two devices on one account, do I have to pay for service for each of them?

A: Yes, each device requires its own subscription. Individual users may have more than one inReach device with an active subscription on their account. This allows users to have and use multiple inReach-enabled devices at a time.

Learn more about adding additional inReach service to an existing account.

Q: Where is the best place to carry my inReach device with a backpack?

A: The best place to carry your inReach device is clipped to the outside, upper part of your backpack, with the antenna facing upwards and having a clear view of the sky. This ensures optimal satellite signal reception while keeping the device accessible.

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

Apple and App Store are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.

The post You asked, we answered: Your inReach® device questions appeared first on Garmin Blog.

Lasse Nymand Petersen has spent more than 15 years as a mountain rescue professional and 15 years as a firefighter. For the past 5 years, Petersen has worked as a hoist operator and medic on H225 helicopters for Air Greenland, the country’s national airline that also staffs search and rescue operations. An H225 crew is on duty at all hours, year-round, along with mechanics who maintain the helicopters. Some of their rescues have been featured on episodes of the Danish TV program The Arctic Rescuers.

From his experience as a professional rescuer, Petersen has become an advocate for the use of inReach technology.

Petersen said that when recreators in need of rescue are equipped with inReach devices, the technology plays a key role in the helicopter evacuations, “making the emergency work fast and precise” due to the two-way satellite communication and precise location updates.

He referenced a rescue they conducted in which a group of researchers became trapped on the Greenland Ice Cap in sudden whiteout conditions. Limited visibility on the Ice Cap can be very dangerous due to the risk of falling in hidden crevasses, and the team was trapped between two large crevasses with a dangerous storm impending.

Petersen said the group used their inReach device to summon help and provide real-time weather updates to the four-person helicopter rescue crew.

“This allowed us to locate them quickly and land safely without incident,” he said. “Without it, we would have to fly around, searching a huge area to see if we could find them. And that’s only if we were certain the weather was flyable.”

He believes failing to plan is simply a plan to fail and recommends for all those who spend time outdoors — especially in dangerous terrains or harsh conditions — to always have an emergency contact that has all the information to provide about the expedition.

Additionally, he has a few other insights about what to be prepared with in case of needing rescue. 

A signal mirror, flares or a headlamp with advanced signal capabilities can help the helicopter team locate individuals, he said. And having an inReach device is key for the SOS and two-way satellite messaging functions.

“Emergency locator beacon — like the inReach device,” he said. “And communication equipment — like the inReach device. That’s already two-in-one.”

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

The post inReach insights from a rescue helicopter professional appeared first on Garmin Blog.

When you golf with Garmin, you get a lot of data. Like, a lot of data. You get helpful health insights from your Garmin golf smartwatch, precise distance measurements from your rangefinder so you know what’s ahead, and robust ball and club metrics from a launch monitor to improve your game.

But you might wonder how your stats fit in with Garmin golfers across the globe. This is our latest deep dive into data logged in the Garmin Golf app, an interactive tool used by golf lovers worldwide to track, analyze and share their activities on the links. As you gather your gear for the upcoming golf season, let’s look at how golfers completed their rounds in 2025 compared to 2024.

Here are a few of the 2025 highlights:

• The number of Garmin golfers under age 20 increased markedly in 2025 from 2024.
• Golfers who used a Garmin launch monitor for at least six months saw a meaningful decrease in their average score.
• Garmin golfers hit the fairway more than a third of the time (and how that compares to the pros).
• Of the locales with the best median handicaps, we have a list of the most popular courses for Garmin golfers around the world — from California in the U.S. to North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany.
• Strength training and yoga were two ways Garmin golfers stayed active beyond golf — and they did those activities significantly more than in 2024.

How many more golfers hit the course — and how often?

There’s something special about setting up the tee, perfecting your swing and walking across the green. And more people — especially young golfers — are seeing the appeal. When breaking down the increase in golfers who used a Garmin device by age, young people led the growth in 2025 compared to 2024. In 2025, we saw 76% growth in golfers under age 20. Golfers 20–29 grew 53% while golfers 30–39 grew 18%. Golfers 40–49 grew 15% and those 50–59 grew 12%.

If you have a junior golfer in your life, might we recommend Approach® J1? It’s the first GPS golf watch specifically designed for youth golfers, built to help them learn the game and track their performance.

The median number of golf rounds rose by 13%, with golfers on average squeezing in one more round in 2025 compared to 2024. The number of female and male golfers using Garmin devices each increased about 16%.

The number of real-life rounds increased 17% while the number of virtual rounds increased 58%. (We like to think the premium all-in-one experience you get on the Approach R50 launch monitor and simulator has something to do with that.)

When it comes to virtual rounds, it’s hard to beat the Home Tee Hero app¹. You get more than 43,000 courses to choose from, more realistic graphics and an added on-course practice mode, making it easier than ever to focus on improving your game.

How well were Garmin golfers swinging?

OK, so Garmin golfers were spending more time on the links. How well were they actually performing?

We found that golfers who used a Garmin launch monitor for at least 6 months had average scores that were 4.4 strokes lower after use. Golfers must have played at least 20 rounds before and 20 rounds after getting the launch monitor, using it at least 5 times. Practice makes perfect, after all.

Garmin golfers hit the fairway 37% of the time. (That’s including only those who played a full round of golf in person and those whose rounds were added to either the Garmin Golf app or their Garmin golf device.) Keep in mind, though, that the average for PGA TOUR pros was 59% through the 2025 season — so maybe that 37% isn’t too shabby.

If you struggle to choose which golf club to use or have a hard time avoiding different hazards, a Garmin golf smartwatch such as Approach S70 could help. This Garmin GPS golf watch offers a virtual caddie feature to help you choose your club. This feature also provides a shot dispersion chart to help you determine which club choice gives you the best chance to hit the fairway and avoid hazards.

The median handicap for Garmin golfers was 14 in 2025. If you’re wondering how your handicap stacks up to other locales, we’ve got that answer too. Here’s a sample of 10 median handicaps across the globe.

How close was your handicap to the median? If you’ve got some work to do, we’re here to help. With a Garmin golf launch monitor¹, you can get precise ball and club metrics that analyze your swing. Plus, you can use the golf simulator on Approach R50 (for the ultimate simulator experience) or Approach R10 with a paired smartphone or tablet to spend more time practicing, whether you’re home or on the course¹.

How have Garmin golfers improved?

Ever wondered how your performance measures across different areas of the game, including drives, approach, chip, putt or even bunker shots? That’s where strokes gained comes in. This feature, available in the Garmin Golf app, measures how well you’re trending in those areas over time. It also tells you how well each shot was relative to how a PGA player would have performed from that distance and lie on average. In 2025, Garmin golfers improved the most in the layup, tee, recovery and overall categories. The closer to zero in the chart below, the better.

What are users doing to improve their overall fitness — and swing?

In addition to all that swing practice, golfers are spending plenty of time on activities outside of golf. Users with an Approach smartwatch, including Approach S70 or S50, logged 29% more walking activities in 2025 compared to 2024. They were also dedicated to building muscle and flexibility: Strength training activities increased 45% and yoga activities increased 49% compared to 2024. And for good reason too, considering the benefits of increased flexibility and strength for your golf performance.

The other top activities were all cardio focused, including running, cycling, swimming and using the elliptical.

Where were the most popular golf courses in the top 10 locales?

Remember those locales with the best median handicaps across the world? These were the most popular golf courses in each of them — good luck getting a tee time at one of these courses.

1. Sea ‘n’ Air Golf Course (U.S.)
2. Club de Golf Longchamp (Canada)
3. Wembley Golf Course: Old (Australia)
4. Golf Club Toulouse-Seilh: Jaune (France)
5. Riksten Golfklubb (Sweden)
6. Pyrford Golf Club (United Kingdom)
7. Wakasu Golf Links (Japan)
8. Landgoed Bergvliet Golf Course (Netherlands)
9. Club de Campo Villa de Madrid: Recorrido Negro (Spain)
10. Kölner Golfclub: Championship (Germany)

What’s the best time of day to hit the links?

When you tee off depends on your personal preference and your location; however, golfers tended to tee off most in the early afternoon, followed by the early morning.

What you need to hit the course in 2026 with Garmin

When you golf with Garmin, you can do it all — from the driving range to the final putt.

Garmin offers a variety of golf watches so you can find the one that’s right for you, whether you’re looking to cover the basics or for premium features to improve your game. With a Garmin rangefinder, you’ll know where the hazards are with a quick glance (yes, it’s possible to avoid that bunker). And with a Garmin launch monitor and simulator, you’ll get advanced ball and club metrics as well as the ability to play virtual rounds on more than 43,000 courses to help improve your swing all year long¹.

Take your golf game to the next level with our golf products.

¹_{Active subscription required}

The post The data behind how Garmin golfers hit the course appeared first on Garmin Blog.

My earliest memories revolve around riding horses for ranch work and pleasure — mainly backcountry fishing and hunting trips.

In 2005, during a hunting trip in the Shoshone wilderness in northwest Wyoming, I was on an early morning elk hunt when the young horse I was riding reared over backward on me while crossing a stream. I had a hunting partner who got the horse off me, but I was severely injured and unable to move. He had to ride 6 miles to get to a landline to call for help.

I laid there for almost 10 hours, not knowing if he made it out or if help was coming. Just as dark was setting in, I cannot describe the relief I felt as I heard a helicopter circling overhead. I thought to myself, “Never again will I be in the backcountry without communication.”

I have owned an inReach device for several years now and have used it for checking in with family, checking weather forecasts and messaging hunting partners who are inReach users.

One August, 3 of my old high school buddies and I took off on a backcountry fishing trip we had been planning for years (we turned 65 that year). About 3 miles into the trip, one of my buddy’s horses fell coming out of a creek crossing that had washed out. The horse fell over backward and landed on top of the rider — eerily similar to my accident years before in the same area.

After untangling the rider from the horse, it was apparent we needed help. I pulled out my inReach and hit the SOS button, and within minutes was texting with the Garmin Response℠ team, giving them all the details of the injured rider and relaying to my buddy that help was on the way (much to his relief).  

I then contacted my wife, who had already been contacted by Garmin Response to let her know what was going on, and my son (who was a paramedic and in charge of a backcountry rescue team), who put a team in action that was on scene within 2 hours.

A helicopter was dispatched but could not land due to rough terrain. The backcountry rescue team ended up carting out the injured rider to a waiting ambulance at the trailhead.

Needless to say, I am a big fan of inReach and was thankful that day to have it. I never leave home without it.

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

The post inReach SOS: Two horseback riding accidents, 18 years apart appeared first on Garmin Blog.

Connection to the Only Satellite Network with Global Coverage

The Iridium^® satellite network, the world’s largest commercial satellite constellation, is the system that allows inReach handhelds to work globally. Its low orbit satellites enable inReach satellite communicators to relay messages, provide weather forecasts, navigate and trigger SOS alerts — even when you and your device are well out of range of cellular coverage. Plus, the multidirectional, purpose-built antennas in inReach handhelds help ensure a prompt connection, which is especially important in an emergency when every second counts.

Interactive SOS

With an inReach device 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 Monitoring

A unique part of the inReach experience is that SOS activations are managed by Garmin’s in-house emergency monitoring team and incident response coordination center, Garmin Response. Operating since 2007, Garmin Response is staffed by trained professionals. They 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 thing anyone wants to consider while recreating is the “what ifs.” To help alleviate those worries, Garmin offers its own Search and Rescue (SAR) insurance plans for select regions. With an inReach device 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 devices can send messages to cellphone numbers, email addresses or other inReach devices.

Send Photos and Voice Messages With inReach Plus Technology

When used with the Garmin Messenger app, handhelds with inReach Plus technology 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 device product page for detailed battery life information.

Rugged construction: inReach devices are tough, durable, impact-resistant and 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.

MapShare and 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 subscription 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 proven to be invaluable in many extreme weather situations.

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

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

²Taking and sending photos requires use of the Garmin Messenger app on your paired smartphone.

The post What’s different about inReach devices? appeared first on Garmin Blog.

When you’re in the field, you need reliable navigation and battery life that won’t let you down. You need a purpose-built, durable device with dedicated tactical features. And you need to track your fitness and health.

Garmin tactical smartwatches have all that and more.

But before we get into specifics to help you decide which watch is right for you, you should know what features are available on most of them.

Essential features you’ll love on Garmin tactical smartwatches

Navigation: Let’s start with navigation. Any of these smartwatches will include an altimeter, barometer and 3-axis compass (ABC sensors), plus multi-band GPS with SatIQ technology for superior positioning accuracy while optimizing battery life. You’ll also get point-to-point navigation, TracBack® routing (so you can follow your GPS track on the way back) and more. With preloaded TopoActive maps, you’ll see high-quality elevation mapping with premium contours and maximum detail. Purchase an Outdoor Maps+ plan¹, and you’ll be able to see a color-coded map overlay with public land boundaries as well as hunting unit boundaries and more.

Battery life: The battery life on the larger versions of these smartwatches ranges from up to 16 days on MARQ Commander (Gen 2) – Carbon Edition to unlimited with the Instinct 3 – Solar, Tactical Edition smartwatch, thanks to solar charging².

Durability: How durable are Garmin tactical smartwatches? We’ve put them to the test again and again — and again. Each has a water rating of 10 ATM, and most have been tested to U.S. military standards for thermal, shock and water resistance.

Health and wellness features: With Body Battery energy monitoring, you’ll better understand the toll your day-to-day activity is taking on your body. Advanced sleep tracking³ helps you understand how you’re sleeping at night while Garmin sleep coach estimates how much sleep you need the next night. And monitoring your heart rate variability (the always-changing interval between heartbeats) can help you stay balanced between rest and intense days.

Performance features: The recovery time countdown timer helps you know when you’re ready for your next tough workout. With training load, you can better understand the impact and recovery needs of your activities, while your training status helps you connect the dots between your training and your results. Plus, training readiness delivers a score between 1-100, so you’ll know if it’s a good day to push yourself or if you should take a break.

Applied Ballistics® integration: This third-party feature offers customized aiming solutions for long-range shooting based on the characteristics of your rifle and bullets, as well as environmental conditions.

Night vision: When you need to operate stealthily, turn on night vision mode to dim brightness and black out the display to reduce detectability.

Stealth mode: This keeps your tactical watch operational but stops storing and sharing your GPS position. It also disables wireless connectivity and communication.

Rucking activity: Next time you load your rucksack with weight, you can start a rucking activity on your compatible tactical smartwatch. That allows you to enter the weight of your pack so you can better understand the physical exertion associated with rucking.

LED flashlight: Most Garmin tactical smartwatches feature a built-in LED flashlight with different color options and intensities.

Now that you know the essentials you’ll get out of the box, let’s break down the different tactical smartwatches.

If you want unlimited battery life and tactical features

Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition: Available with an AMOLED display or two sizes in the solar-powered display (for unlimited battery life with a larger and more efficient solar lens), the rugged Instinct 3 smartwatch is packed with tactical features. These include night vision, rucking activity, stealth mode (which collects distances and biometrics without recording location data), projected waypoints, AB solver (unlock fee required), AB Quantum app compatibility, kill switch that wipes all user memory, jumpmaster, tactical activity and stage timer.

• Durability: This smartwatch features bolted construction, a fiber-reinforced polymer case, a metal-reinforced bezel and a scratch-resistant display.
• Battery life: The AMOLED model gets up to 24 days. The solar models can get unlimited battery life¹.
• Flashlight: Instinct 3 includes a built-in LED flashlight with a variety of intensities, strobe mode and green light.

If you want a smartwatch that’s built for the mission

tactix 8 series: This is the next-gen tactical smartwatch. You can choose between two AMOLED sizes or one size for solar. You can also opt for the Solar: AB Elite® model, which includes the Applied Ballistics Elite Solver (giving you access to advanced aiming solutions for long-range shooting in the field) — all other models include the Applied Ballistics Ultralight solver. tactix 8 includes tactical features such as rucking, jumpmaster activity, waypoint projection, dual-position GPS format, stealth mode, kill switch, AB Quantum mobile app compatibility, compatibility with night vision goggles and a dedicated tactical activity. Plus, civilian and military aviators benefit from Direct-to navigation with the worldwide aeronautical database, which helps users navigate to a location or waypoint, or use the “nearest” function to find a path to a nearby airport, as well as get aviation weather reports.

• Durability: In addition to the sensor guard and leakproof buttons, tactix 8 offers a titanium bezel and scratch-resistant sapphire lens. Purpose-built for enhanced longevity, the tactix 8 Cerakote® Edition features a ceramic polymer composite coating that’s ready for the mission.
• Battery life: The largest AMOLED version offers up to 29 days of battery life, while the solar option can reach up to 48 days.
• Flashlight: The flashlight on tactix 8 provides a bright, steady white or green beam. In night vision mode, the white light is disabled, and the green light becomes dimmable.

If you want a luxurious spin on a modern tactical watch

MARQ® Commander (Gen 2) – Carbon Edition: This luxury tool watch is crafted from 130 layers of Fused Carbon Fiber. Each layer of carbon is rotated to a unique angle to increase the strength of the block, which is then heated and pressured to align with the watch shape housing for a beautiful and ultradurable design that’s rugged and lightweight. You can read the screen when wearing night vision goggles or switch settings for daytime use. Other tactical features include a stealth mode, kill switch, dual-position GPS format, jumpmaster, preloaded tactical activity and projected waypoints. If you’re in the air, it provides advanced aviation features such as Direct-to navigation and weather reports⁴.

• Durability: The bezel is made of Grade-5 titanium and Fused Carbon Fiber, while the case is made of Fused Carbon Fiber with a titanium rear cover. This luxurious smartwatch also includes a domed sapphire crystal lens and jacquard-weave nylon strap.
• Battery life: MARQ Commander provides up to 16 days in smartwatch mode.

Between Instinct 3, tactix 8 and MARQ Commander, there’s a Garmin smartwatch designed for your needs. Browse Garmin tactical smartwatches today to prepare yourself for any mission or adventure coming your way.

¹_{Some features may be delayed or unavailable on certain devices}

²_{Assumes all-day wear with 3 hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions}

³_{See Garmin.com/ataccuracy}

⁴_{When paired with your compatible smartphone}

The post The best tactical Garmin watches appeared first on Garmin Blog.

What is Garmin Response?

Originally founded in 2007 and now owned by Garmin, Garmin Response is a leader in 24/7 emergency monitoring and incident response services. It is the nerve center for SOS dispatch efforts triggered by inReach-enabled devices and affiliated Satellite Emergency Notification Devices with active service plans. 

The Garmin Response center employs a dedicated team of skilled emergency response coordinators ready at any time to respond to SOS triggers. Using a proprietary emergency monitoring platform, an emergency response coordinator answers the SOS activation and collaborates with multiple members of the Garmin Response team on rescue coordination to keep the process moving quickly. 

Garmin Response by the numbers:

• More than 150,000 SOS alerts received
• More than 200 countries and territories covered for coordinated emergency responses
• More than 210 languages and dialects supported
• More than 19,000 inReach SOS responses

Where is the Garmin Response team located?

Garmin Response is located in Montgomery, Texas, U.S. All SOS monitoring, communication and emergency response coordination are handled at this location. 

How does Garmin Response connect to rescue organizations?

Garmin Response maintains a global database of local first responders and emergency services. As soon as an SOS activation is received, the Garmin Response team pulls up the precise location of the SOS alert, a corresponding list of emergency response organizations for that area and a map overlay of agency jurisdictions. The Garmin Response team contacts the local organization and works with them to dispatch resources to the incident site as necessary. 

What happens when you trigger an SOS?

The process varies slightly depending on the emergency, device type and location, but in a matter of minutes the basic workflow is:

1. The SOS alert, including exact GPS coordinates, is received by the Garmin Response team. 
   
2. A team member starts the response coordination by acknowledging the SOS with a message back to the device and requests more information regarding the nature of the emergency. If the user is unable to respond, the team member continues the rescue coordination.
   
3. Using the GPS coordinates automatically sent from the device, the team member consults the global first responder database to determine the local emergency service to contact and initiates communication with them. 
   
4. The team maintains communication with the user via two-way messaging to gather information regarding the incident. 
   
5. The team calls the emergency contacts listed in the user’s profile to inform them of the SOS and request additional information that might aid in the rescue. 
   
6. If possible, the Garmin Response team connects the rescue agency directly to the user for communication via two-way messaging through their device.
   
7. Throughout the entire process, Garmin Response will monitor the user’s location and send progress updates to the user and emergency contacts until the rescue is completed or canceled. 

Does SOS capability come with an inReach subscription? What about insurance?

SOS capability and access to Garmin Response are included with an active inReach subscription. 

An inReach subscription does not include additional insurance coverage or cover any possible costs incurred from an emergency response; however, additional Search and Rescue (SAR) insurance is available for select regions to purchase from Garmin. For more details on additional SAR insurance, visit SAR Insurance.

Why does Garmin have a dedicated emergency response team? 

Because every Garmin device with inReach technology is equipped with an SOS button, it is essential to provide effective emergency response and safety services for customers around the globe. Garmin Response has been focused on providing the highest quality of service to individuals in their time of need for more than 15 years. Team members know how to face the challenges of each unique incident with determination and compassion, providing world-class service and peace of mind to users and their loved ones when they need it the most. 

To find out more, check out our blog covering the top questions about triggering an SOS on an inReach device.

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

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One bright, beautiful snowmobiling day, a group of four of us were riding in an area of Wyoming we have all been before, traversing across challenging creek bottoms and exploring untouched powder up and over ridges.

With the record snowfall that season, we were cautious of avalanches and areas prone to slides. All of us had our avalanche backpacks, shovels, probes and beacons, and we had practiced and understood the protocol fully.

It was 2 p.m., and we were on a mountainside we have gone up and over many times. We stopped at the bottom to discuss our options. One person in our group decided to try a route and conveyed “Stay put and let me go look.”

We all know to go one snowmobile at a time on a steep slope, but as the initial rider started up, a second rider decided to follow. They were about five sled-lengths apart as the rest of us shouted in our intercoms for the second rider to stop.  

Before anything could be done, we observed a large crack in the snow between the two riders, and an avalanche started between them. The first rider made it to the top and the second rider tried to get out of the way, but it was too late, and the rider got swallowed up in a wall of snow and knocked off the snowmobile. We all kept an eye on the rider who was in the avalanche — watching them tumble and disappear and finally seeing their avalanche air bag deploy.

As the slide came to a stop, we rushed over to the rider who was buried up to their chin. Their snowmobile was nowhere to be seen.  

We started our rescue digging procedures and eventually freed them. A member in our group is certified in first aid and examined their overall condition. They were in a lot of pain but there were no broken bones or bleeding. We kept the individual warm with a fire and bivy bags.

We decided that riding out was less of an option, so I triggered an SOS message on my Garmin inReach device. I had the inReach paired to my phone and started communicating with the Garmin Response℠ team member, who also put me in touch with the local search and rescue (SAR) team.

Pairing to my phone worked out well because there was a lot of texting back and forth with updates to and from Garmin Response and the SAR commander. I requested a helicopter as the SAR team conveyed they would have trouble getting to where we were with a snow buggy. Then the wait started.

We had dug the rider out at 3 p.m. and by 4:30 p.m., it was getting dark and cold as a storm moved in. Our hopes faded as the Garmin Response team conveyed that helicopters made two attempts from two different locations, but the weather was too bad for a flight.

The SAR commander updated me that they were still coming to our location, so I communicated that a rescue sled buggy would not make it to our location, and we would instead get the victim out and meet them. Securing the victim to another rider on the same snowmobile was tricky, and we had to work hard to avoid getting that snowmobile stuck.

By the time we were past a bad spot on the mountain, it was dark and the avalanche victim conveyed “Just keep going and get me out.”

The SAR team had our location updated continuously from the inReach device, and eventually they caught up to us. They assisted in making a packed trail to the warming hut where an emergency snow buggy and other members of the team had a fire going and were ready for our arrival.

After a medical assessment, the decision was made to carefully secure and transport the injured individual to the waiting snow buggy and then take the 15-mile ride down a groomed trail to the trailhead where an ambulance was waiting.

Severe bruising from the mid torso and down both legs was discovered at the emergency room, and they said that the decision to get the victim out as soon as possible was a good move.

In retrospect there were a few key things that led to this amazing outcome:

1. Having the inReach device. Given medical attention was paramount, it would have been a much more dire situation without it.
2. Pairing the inReach device to the phone made conversation between all dispatchers stress-free.
3. Having the SAR team know our every move via inReach location sharing.

All members of our party now have an inReach device, and we’re so grateful for individuals who volunteer for SAR and work for ambulance services. We commend the helicopter pilot’s decision not to fly in weather that was not safe for everyone, and the Garmin Response team for keeping my family aware of the situation.

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

The post inReach SOS: Snowmobiler caught in an avalanche appeared first on Garmin Blog.

That’s where the Blaze equine wellness system comes in. This tail wrap and sensor is designed for riders, horse owners and trainers who want as much information as possible about their horse.

Designed for horses

The Blaze equine wellness system features an advanced equine optical heart rate monitor that provides data under motion and environmental conditions. It includes a durable and washable neoprene wrap with hook-and-loop straps for efficient fastening. That wrap holds the lightweight sensor to the underside of your horse’s tail.

How does Blaze work?

With Blaze you’ll get insights into your horse’s health and fitness, so you can make more informed choices about their well-being and training. Easily access those insights with the Blaze smartphone app to stay on top of your horse’s wellness, or view data on your wrist with a compatible Garmin smartwatch (requires a connection with Bluetooth® technology).

All you need to do is attach the tail wrap — no special skin preparation required — and add your horse’s details to the Blaze app. Set up multiple profiles to track your herd and get real-time stats for each horse, including heart rate, strides, gait, distance and more¹.

Simply select one of four activity types — outdoor training, indoor training, recovery and transport — and get started. See stats on your compatible Garmin smartwatch when using the Blaze app from the Garmin Connect IQ Store.

That data is organized into the three following categories:

• Biometrics: heart rate, skin temperature change and heat score
• Kinetics: stride and gait, speed, distance, location and weather
• Recovery: time and heart rate

Need your trainer to watch as you ride? Broadcast your horse’s data through live training data, viewable in the mobile app. When you’re not training, you can view all your activity history and analyze training details through fully interactive charts and customizable views in the mobile app.

How does Blaze benefit your horse?

With Blaze, you’ll get all the insights into your horse’s training, fitness and performance you need.

For example, the skin temperature metric shows you how your horse’s average skin temperature changes. Activity, environment, potential illness and more can all be related to your horse’s skin temperature. This feature helps you stay on top of your horse’s health.

Wondering if the weather is too hot for a ride? With heat score, you won’t have to question it. This feature provides the combined total for the current air temperature and humidity and based on that total will guide you on whether to ride at that time.

Plus, Blaze features up to 25 hours of battery life — so you can get data from every ride.

You’ve been looking for a way to easily track your horse’s health and fitness. Unlock these metrics today with the Garmin Blaze equine wellness system.

¹_{Accuracy of estimations can vary due to multiple factors, such as fit, physical characteristics and intensity of activity}

_{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 How to better understand your horse with Garmin Blaze appeared first on Garmin Blog.

When necessary, users can also trigger an SOS message to Garmin Response℠. Each year, we unpack that data to provide a comprehensive look at how and why inReach SOS messages are being triggered. To start, here are some key takeaways from 2025:   

• We are now seeing more than 3,000 total inReach SOS incidents per year.
  
• Trail and mountain-based incidents were notably up in 2025, and marine incidents were a growing category.
  
• Work-related SOS incidents jumped into the top 10, highlighting how organizations are utilizing inReach technology to equip workers for emergency situations.
  
• We are seeing a trend of medical issues (e.g., altitude sickness, heart problems, gastrointestinal issues) increasing each year.
  
• Customers are using the two-way satellite messaging capabilities of inReach devices to self-rescue without the use of emergency resources over 12% of the time. 
  
• When emergency resources are necessary, helicopters are utilized one-third of the time, highlighting how many incidents can be of an extreme or life-threatening nature.

Before we dive deeper into the data, we should also mention a few SOS-capable devices added to the Garmin inReach lineup in 2025.

First, we introduced the fēnix® 8 Pro Series — the first smartwatches from Garmin with inReach technology for satellite and cellular connectivity, including SOS message capability supported by Garmin Response.

We also brought inReach Plus technology, color touchscreen displays and more to the new inReach Mini 3 Plus and GPSMAP® H1i Plus. With either of those devices or the inReach Messenger Plus, inReach users can exchange photos and voice messages² via satellite — including during an SOS event, which gives Garmin Response coordinators the ability to see and hear details of the emergency firsthand.

Where were SOS incidents triggered?

The triggering of SOS incident messages across the globe speaks to the scale of the satellite coverage and the broad use of inReach technology. Plus, when it comes to SOS events, there are a few unique things about how the inReach system works:

• SOS activations are managed by the Garmin in-house emergency monitoring team, Garmin Response. Operating since 2007, Garmin Response is composed of a dedicated staff of trained professionals who are always ready to respond to inReach SOS message triggers.
  
• Garmin Response uses proprietary emergency handling software to manage each SOS alert and works with a global database of local first responders. During an SOS event, Garmin Response can initiate direct messaging between the inReach user and the responding rescue agency.
  
• inReach location sharing allows loved ones to track a user’s location at specified intervals. During an SOS incident, location data automatically begins transmitting from the device to Garmin Response — information Garmin Response can provide to rescue agencies to know a user’s exact location.
  
• inReach handheld devices are rugged, durable, impact-resistant and water-rated to IPX7, with the battery life of select models lasting up to 30 days — especially important qualities during an emergency. 

What were people doing when they triggered an SOS message?

The activity breakdown for SOS incidents in 2025 highlights the many ways customers use their device. Though the top 5 categories remained the same in 2025, we still observed changes from 2024. Trail and mountain-based activity incidents in the climbing/mountaineering and hiking/backpacking categories were up in 2025. Water-based activity incidents were also trending up, with an increase in sailing incidents and boating replacing hunting as the sixth-largest category.

In 2024, we noted that dirt biking and rafting were increasing categories, but that trend did not continue into 2025. Instead, some new categories emerged: work-related (SOS incidents occurring while working professionally) jumped into the top 10, while cycling, motorcycling and paddle sports incidents also increased.

Why were people triggering an SOS message?

Injuries were again the top cause for SOS incidents this year. Another top category was motor vehicle accidents and issues, and vessel issues were trending up — indicating inReach devices can be a valuable tool to include in vehicle or boat emergency kits. Medical issues, stranded persons and lost parties rounded out the top 5 categories. 

When comparing SOS message triggers year over year, we again saw a notable increase in medical issues, including altitude sickness, heart problems and gastrointestinal issues, among others.

Who were people triggering an SOS message for?  

An inReach SOS message can be triggered for anyone or to report emergencies such as wildfires or vehicle accidents. This year the number of SOS incidents triggered for the actual user were down slightly, with an increasing amount triggered for a party member or a group of individuals — indicating how important it is to carry an inReach device for whatever situation you may come across.

What responses were dispatched for incidents this year?

In 2025, helicopters, ambulances, police, and search and rescue teams were again dispatched most frequently. We also saw an increase in responses by professional organizations — likely due to the increase in SOS message triggers for work-related incidents. With the help of Garmin Response, inReach users were able to self-rescue over 12% of the time.

Thank you to the responders

Behind these SOS incidents and rescues are dedicated emergency responders giving their time and energy to helping others. Many rescue teams are composed of volunteers who make immense sacrifices for the benefit and well-being of adventurers in need. As we look back on another year, we thank the emergency responders and volunteers who are involved in the rescue process and there for many inReach users in their time of need.

Here’s to safe and happy adventures in 2026.

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

²Photo and voice messaging requires use of the Garmin Messenger app on your compatible smartphone.

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 post 2025 inReach® SOS year in review appeared first on Garmin Blog.

Unlike physical dive tables and gauges, a Garmin dive computer helps divers create optimized dive plans that extend time underwater and provide increased awareness for deeper exploration by logging depth, dive time, decompression status and more.   

It’s hard to know where to start when there are multiple options to choose from. To make your decision a little easier, we’ve described our watch-style and large-format dive computers so you can find a device that best suits your needs. 

Why a Garmin dive computer?

Garmin dive computers share lots of similarities that make any computer you choose an excellent choice.

Every dive computer has a built-in 3-axis digital compass for better navigation. Plus, select Garmin dive computers come with built-in NDL Aware depth metrics such as real-time data on your no-decompression limit (NDL). Insight into your depth data helps you to understand how changes in depth affect your plan to get to the surface.

When on the surface, you can communicate with other topside members by pairing your watch with a Garmin inReach® device¹ protected by a dive case. If an incident has occurred, you’ll be able to trigger an SOS message to Garmin Response℠, our 24/7-staffed international coordination center.

See where you began and ended your dive when you mark surface entry and exit points. After your dive, store dive logs on your device and review them on the Garmin Dive app on your smartphone.

Here’s a breakdown of offerings from every Garmin dive computer.

Watch-style dive computers

Watch-style dive computers are built for more than just underwater activities. The Garmin lineup includes the Descent G2 designed for both recreational and experienced divers, and the Descent Mk3i offers premium features for advanced technical divers. Both options have built-in activity tracking and sports apps as well as health and wellness features, including daily movements and lifestyle logging in the Garmin Connect app. So how do they differ? Let’s dive in.

Descent Mk3: The compact Descent Mk3 is ideal for advanced divers who want ultimate dive features but still value surface features. Made with a premium sapphire lens and the choice of stainless steel or titainum bezels, the Descent Mk3 supports up to 30 hours of battery life in dive mode and has a 200-meter dive rating.

The dedicated dive features include preloaded single- and multi-gas dive modes (such as gauge, apnea, apnea hunt and closed-circuit rebreather), dive readiness data so you know when you’re most prepared to go underwater and DiveView mapping with up to 4,000 dive sites.

For increased connectivity down under, upgrade to an Mk3i air-integrated dive computer and pair it with our Descent T2 transceivers to monitor up to eight tank pressures with built-in SubWave sonar networking. Plus, monitor depth data and exchange diver-to-diver messaging up to 30 meters. When connected with the Garmin Descent S1 buoy, message divers and crew members topside when you’re within 100 meters. You can also send satellite messages through any paired inReach device, protected by a dive case, when on the surface. For support above and below the water, the 51mm Mk3i watch comes with a built-in flashlight.

Descent G2: With surface and dive features, the rugged Descent G2 is perfect for first-time or recreational divers. This dive computer has up to 10 days of battery life, with a bright, 1.2-inch AMOLED display that’s easy to read under water and can be used as a touchscreen when above the water. Eco-friendly, the G2’s bezel and case are made with recycled ocean-bound plastics. For utmost durability, the G2 also has a sapphire lens.

Withstanding up to 100 meters, Descent G2 tracks and supports various dive modes, including recreational, technical, freediving — including pool apnea.

Large-format dive computers

The Garmin lineup of touchscreen dive computers includes Descent X30 and Descent X50i. Both are perfect for dedicated divers who want access to multiple dive-specific metrics on a larger screen for better visibility. To understand how your dive journey affects your decompression plan, see depth history as you dive on either computer. Though both share commonalities, here are some key differences:

Descent X50i: For advanced rec or technical divers who favor a bigger, premium, data-packed touchscreen dive computer, take a look at the Descent X50i. Depth info, dive time, ascent/descent rates, and decompression status are just a few of the many data fields you’ll have access to.

With a vibrant 3-inch color display, you’ll be able to see comprehensive dive data with ease. Explore up to 200 meters below with its sapphire lens and integrated dive light.

Like the Descent Mk3i, this computer is air-integrated, letting you monitor tank pressure, depth and distance with up to eight divers up to 10 meters away and exchange diver-to-diver messages up to 30 meters when paired with your Descent T2 transceiver and through SubWave sonar networking. Plus, see bathymetric depth contours for more than 4,000 dive sites with DiveView maps. Glance down at your computer to understand current decompression data to aide in quick decision-making.

Descent X30: If you’re an avid rec diver still looking for an easy-to-read dive computer that’s not as feature-heavy, the Descent X30 might be for you.

Like the Descent X50i, you can customize your dive screen with up to three data fields per page with flip-screen mode for easy operation. Rotate or flip the screen so that the buttons are at the top of the display. With single- and multi-gas dive profiles — trimix included — you can prepare for deep or shallow dives.

Other dive-rated Garmin products

If you’re a rec diver with interests beyond just underwater adventures, check out these premium, multisport, dive-rated smartwatches.

fēnix® 8: Built to withstand 40 meters, recreational divers can take their fēnix 8 for scuba and apnea dive activities. The fēnix 8 has a built-in LED flashlight for increased visibility.  LTE connectivity keeps your loved ones up-to-date on your location and lets you exchange messages without a phone connection — perfect for off-the-grid quests². When you have the fenix 8 Pro, you’ll have additional satellite messaging.

tactix® 8: This military-grade smartwatch is built to be durable, long-lasting and ready for any mission. Fit for underwater training or recreational diving, tactix 8 has a 40-meter dive rating. Plus, navigate low-light conditions with confidence with the built-in LED flashlight. Stay prepped for other expeditions with dedicated tactical features such as jumpmaster activity, waypoint projection, dual-position GPS format, stealth mode and more.

quatix® 8: This nautical marine watch has capabilities from the helm to the sea. When you aren’t using your quatix 8 to control your boat, you’ll be able to take it overboard. Enjoy this dive-rated watch when you’re exploring depths up to 40 meters deep. Built to be durable in various conditions, the quatix 8 comes with water-resistant buttons, an AMOLED display, a scratch-proof lens and a titanium bezel. 

Explore with confidence when you have a Garmin dive computer. Browse our full lineup of dive technology to prepare for your next aquatic adventure.

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

_{²Active subscription required; LTE network coverage and satellite connectivity are not available in all countries. Check Garmin.com/fenix8procoverage for requirements and to see which services are accessible in your area — or in countries to where you may be traveling. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit satellite communication devices; it is the user’s responsibility to know and follow all applicable laws.}

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