Pros
Packed with features
Great tracking for running and swimming
Easy to use
Bright screen with sunglasses on
Long-lasting battery
Compatible with Dexcom G7 for diabetics
Accurate GPS
Tracks a variety of activities
Durable and robust construction
Touch screen functionality under water
Music storage and streaming
Solar charging capabilities
Comfortable to wear
Cons
Screen too dim under bright sunlight
Large size may not be suitable for everyone
Touch screen functionality can be annoying in some situations
Main Product Advantages
10 Battery Life
The battery life is highly commended, lasting up to 2 weeks in some cases, with effective solar charging extending usage.
9 Ease of Use
The watch is praised for its simplicity in operation, even with its multitude of features. Users appreciate how easy it is to start, pause, and stop workouts.
9 Tracking Capabilities
Offers comprehensive tracking for running, swimming, and various triathlon activities, plus health metrics such as sleep and heart rate. Seamlessly integrates with apps like Dexcom for diabetics.
9 Accuracy
Highly accurate GPS and heart rate monitoring, even under water. Lap detection for swimming is better compared to previous Garmin models, though not perfect.
8 Screen Display
Generally good screen quality with users liking the MIP display for being non-distracting, although some find it too dim outdoors.
8 Build Quality
Robust construction praised, suitable for athletes, with better buttons and charger design compared to older models.
8 Smart Features
Includes useful smart features like morning reports, Spotify integration, music storage, and turn-by-turn navigation.
7 Size and Comfort
Mixed opinions on size; some find it large and obtrusive, while others appreciate its presence. Generally noted as lightweight and comfortable to wear.
6 Screen Brightness
While many users find the screen bright enough for outdoor use, some users have reported issues with its readability in bright sunlight.
Garmin Forerunner® 955 Solar Review
The Garmin Forerunner® 955 Solar is a top-tier GPS running and triathlon smartwatch designed for serious athletes. Its standout feature is the Power Glass™ solar charging technology that effectively extends the battery life, making it an excellent choice for those who require long-lasting performance.
Training Readiness and Adaptability
One of the most impressive features of the Forerunner 955 Solar is the training readiness feature. This function provides insight into when you're primed for a productive session. Additionally, the smartwatch offers daily suggested workouts that adapt according to your performance and recovery. These features are complemented by the race widget which gives training tips, course details, and predicted completion times.
Comprehensive Morning Report
The morning report feature is a key component for anyone interested in tracking their health and performance. You receive an overview of your sleep, recovery, training, and other essential metrics. This encompasses heart rate variability (HRV) status, giving a well-rounded picture of your overall health. It's essential to note that the device provides estimated metrics, which are very useful for maintaining a healthy training balance.
Advanced Navigation and Usability
While on the run, the new multi-band GPS and full-color built-in maps offer excellent navigation capabilities. The combination of traditional buttons and a touch display ensures that interacting with the Forerunner 955 Solar is both intuitive and efficient. It's easier than ever to monitor your training status, allowing you to understand if you're training productively, peaking, or strained.
Battery Life
The battery life of the Forerunner 955 Solar is a significant selling point. With solar charging, you can expect up to 20 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. This assumes all-day wear and about three hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions. This feature alone makes it an attractive option for marathon runners and triathletes who need their smartwatch to perform for extended periods.
Conclusion
Overall, the Garmin Forerunner® 955 Solar is a premium option for triathletes and serious runners. Its advanced features, coupled with solar charging capabilities and extensive battery life, offer a comprehensive solution for those seeking to optimize their training and performance. Whether you are striving for a podium finish or pushing your personal limits, the Forerunner 955 Solar is designed to be a reliable companion on your athletic journey.
