The Garmin Forerunner 255 GPS Smartwatch is a GPS running watch designed to be as small and lightweight as possible while still providing advanced training insights and long battery life. It has an always-on, full-color display that remains readable even in direct sunlight. It’s designed to fit comfortably against your wrist without being too large, and you can easily view all your training statistics during your runs, even in direct sunlight. You can get the watch in both 41mm and 46mm case sizes to fit your preferred size and keep you comfortable, while providing the same training and recovery tools.
A fitness tracker worth sporting for casuals and hardcore enthusiasts
The Forerunner 255 features Garmin Coach running plans, including free adaptive training plans and daily suggested workouts that adjust based on how your recent runs have gone. These structured training plans are provided for 5k, 10k, and half-marathon distances. In addition to tracking your heart rate variability (HRV) during sleep, the watch provides a morning report that includes information about your sleep, HRV, and your suggested workout for the day. This allows you to quickly determine whether to push yourself harder or slow down for better recovery.
The watch lets you track your workouts with GPS, providing up to 14 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 30 hours with GPS. The ability to track your workouts for longer periods without needing to charge the watch lets you run farther and conduct multiple training sessions without worrying about losing your progress. It uses a lithium-ion battery and includes built-in sports apps to let you track various activities. This means you don’t need to carry a separate device to track each type of activity. Since the watch uses GPS, you can leave your phone at home and still track your performance.
The Garmin OS on the Forerunner 255 supports Bluetooth and USB connectivity, allowing you to synchronize your data via the Garmin Connect app or transfer your workouts to another device via a cable. Additionally, the watch has 4 GB of internal memory for storing your activity history and settings. It also connects with optional accessories, such as a Running Dynamics Pod or HRM Pro monitor (sold separately), to provide access to additional power and running dynamics metrics. Currently, the Forerunner 255 GPS Smartwatch is available for $250, reduced from its original list price of $350. At this price point, the watch provides training guidance, recovery insights, and long battery life in an affordable package.
