As a fitness editor, I have the privilege of testing and reviewing some of the top smartwatches on the market. Despite my extensive experience, I've been an Apple Watch devotee for over a decade, using it daily for its seamless integration with my iPhone and those addictive activity rings. However, when it came to choosing a running watch for my recent half-marathon, I made a surprising decision.
The Great Smartwatch Debate: Apple vs. Garmin
I'm currently training for my sixth marathon, and while the Apple Watch Ultra 3 has been my go-to for most training runs, I discovered its limitations in rainy conditions. The forecast for my half-marathon was particularly grim, with non-stop rain and temperatures feeling like 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Standing at the start line, already soaked and shivering, I knew I needed a watch that could withstand the elements.
Any runner can attest to the challenges of rain and touchscreens. During a race, I like to track my progress at each mile marker, accounting for the extra distance covered due to weaving around other runners and, in my case, navigating muddy puddles. On my Apple Watch Ultra 3, I would typically double-tap the screen to lap the watch, but in the rain, this became problematic. While I could configure the Action Button for this purpose, I preferred to use it as a shortcut to pause my workouts at traffic lights.
So, I made the switch to the Garmin Forerunner 570. Its physical buttons and AMOLED touchscreen, which automatically deactivates during workout modes, proved to be a game-changer. Despite the freezing rain and winds, my fingers remained functional enough to lap my watch each mile, helping me maintain my pace throughout the race.
From a smartwatch perspective, the Garmin Forerunner 570 may not match the capabilities of the Apple Watch Series 11 or Ultra 3. While it offers Garmin Pay and music playback, its features are more limited. However, when it comes to race day, even as a dedicated Apple Watch wearer, I find myself trusting Garmin's reliability in challenging conditions.
The Ultimate Running Companion?
So, which watch would I choose for my next marathon? While the Apple Watch Ultra 3 offers an impressive array of features, the Garmin Forerunner 570's durability and simplicity in wet conditions make it a strong contender.
What's your take on this smartwatch debate? Do you prefer the versatility of Apple or the reliability of Garmin for your running adventures? Let's discuss in the comments!
