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There are literally hundreds of fitness trackers and watches to choose from and the decision between even just a few can be a difficult one. For most, a wearable fitness tracker will be on your wrist most of the time so you will want one that is attractive, durable, comprehensive and easy to use. When researching for the best options, I made of list of some of the most important features I thought were necessary for the ideal running watch. My lifestyle called for a durable watch face and band, an internal GPS, a strong battery life, wrist-based heart rate monitor, and Bluetooth capabilities. The Garmin Forerunner 235 was the perfect match and has been my sole adventure watch for almost three years.
Durability: The Perfect Adventure Watch
For an active lifestyle that includes not just running, but also hiking in both extreme heat and cold as well as paddling or swimming this adventure watch has surpassed my expectations. I’ve used the Forerunner 235 trekking to Everest Base Camp as well as every day at my physically taxing, outdoor job.
Not only has the watch itself stood up to various conditions, but the band hasn’t had a rip or scuff to date. Along with its tough design, internally the battery life of the Forerunner 235 is long lasting and even after three years, it still has about a nine-hour training mode or eleven-day activity tracking battery life. I used the GPS mode for hours while hiking in Nepal and only had to recharge twice during a week-long trek.
Internal Capabilities: The Perfect Adventure Watch
The Forerunner 235 offers plenty of smart capabilities making this adventure watch perfect for any activity. First and foremost, the ability to connect via Bluetooth to your smartphone allows you to sync all activities instantly to your phone or computer.
After you download the Garmin Connect app, you will be able to view all saved data on various charts or graphs so that you can track your progress. I enjoy being able to compare resting to active heart rate as well as seeing my VO2Max drop as I continue to progress in my fitness journey.
Fun widgets are also available and can be downloaded through Garmin Connect such as different watch faces, weather alerts, or elevation charts. When connected to your phone and in range, text messages and phone calls can be directed to your watch which makes it easy to stay in touch when on a run/hike or at the gym.
Fitness Tracking: The Perfect Adventure Watch
The most important features when considering an adventure watch will most likely be its ability to track all fitness related data such as steps, heart rate, sleep or distance run.
The Forerunner 235 finds a GPS signal almost immediately and is very accurate. There is nothing worse than having to wait to start a run/hike because your watch can’t find you. There are tons of settings such as interval training, audio lap prompts, pace reminders, and live tracking.
There’s not much this watch can’t do. This is why I’ve had the Forerunner 235 for years and even after my current model dies, I will continue to purchase Garmin products because of their great quality watches designed for everyday life as well as running, biking, swimming and more! Check out some of my other favorite gear for other big adventures HERE!
If you have any questions, feel free to drop a comment below or reach out to me on my Facebook page!
