10 Best Garmin Waterproof Watch 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Forerunner 165 is a solid choice for runners and fitness enthusiasts looking for a reliable smartwatch. It stands out with its built-in GPS functionality, which accurately tracks pace and distance, making it a great companion for outdoor activities. The AMOLED display is bright and colorful, ensuring visibility even in bright sunlight, while the lightweight design adds to its comfort during extended wear.

Battery life is impressive, offering up to 11 days in smartwatch mode and 19 hours in GPS mode, which means you can go on long runs or multi-day adventures without worrying about charging. The watch is designed with various training metrics and recovery insights, helping users understand their fitness levels and plan workouts effectively. Safety features, such as incident detection and assistance, enhance peace of mind during outdoor activities. The watch also supports smart notifications and Garmin Pay, allowing you to stay connected and make purchases without carrying extra items.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the Forerunner 165 is packed with features, it may feel overwhelming for someone who is not tech-savvy. The need for a paired smartphone for certain functionalities, like incident detection and smart notifications, might limit its usability for those who prefer standalone devices. Additionally, while it offers a variety of built-in activity profiles, it may not cater to niche sports as effectively as some specialized devices. The Garmin Forerunner 165 is best suited for serious runners and those invested in tracking their fitness journeys, thanks to its robust GPS, health monitoring features, and smart functionalities. However, casual users or those seeking a simpler watch may find it a bit complex.

The Garmin Approach S12 is tailored for avid golfers, boasting a robust set of features that cater to the specific needs of the sport. With its water resistance up to 164 feet, it can withstand the elements, making it a suitable companion for all-weather play. Highlighted by its GPS functionality, this watch offers access to over 42,000 preloaded golf courses, providing precise yardages to the green, hazards, and doglegs, which is invaluable for strategizing on the course.

The battery life is commendable, offering up to 30 hours in GPS mode. This ensures it can last through multiple rounds without needing a recharge, a key strength for those long days on the course. The high-resolution, sunlight-readable display is a practical feature, allowing golfers to easily view information even under direct sunlight, although the 0.9-inch screen might be considered small by some users.

Heart rate monitoring isn't featured, which could be a limitation for those looking to track their fitness metrics. The build quality is durable, designed to withstand the rigors of golfing. While it includes smart features like score tracking and Bluetooth connectivity to the Garmin Golf app, it is worth noting that it lacks some advanced smart features found in other smartwatches.

The Garmin Approach S12 excels in providing essential golfing features and durability, ideal for golfers prioritizing golf-specific capabilities over general smartwatch features. Its simplicity and focused functionality make it a great fit for those who prioritize golfing tools integrated into their wristwatch.

The Garmin Forerunner 965 Running Smartwatch stands out in the waterproof watch category with its robust features. It boasts a water resistance rating suitable for swimming, making it ideal for tracking wet sports or activities. The GPS functionality is impressive, with multi-band GNSS and SatIQ technology ensuring accurate tracking even in challenging environments. Battery life is a strong point, providing up to 23 days in smartwatch mode and up to 31 hours in GPS mode, which is excellent for long training sessions or multi-day events without frequent recharges.

The heart rate monitoring is comprehensive, offering insights into various metrics like HRV status and wrist-based running dynamics, which can be beneficial for serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Durability is ensured with a lightweight titanium bezel, while the 1.4-inch AMOLED display provides a vibrant and clear viewing experience, even in bright conditions. Smart features include personalized daily suggested workouts, multi-sport profiles, and full-color mapping, enhancing the watch's functionality for training and everyday use.

However, the complexity of its features might be overwhelming for casual users who prefer simpler interfaces. Additionally, while the build quality and lightweight design are advantageous, some users might find the 1.4-inch screen slightly bulky for everyday wear. Those who are deeply invested in their fitness and training routines will find this watch highly beneficial, while casual users or those seeking a simple smartwatch might find it more than they need.