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 Instinct 3 stands out as a rugged outdoor GPS smartwatch with several impressive features. Its water resistance rating of 10 ATM makes it suitable for swimming and other water activities. The built-in GPS with multi-band SatIQ technology ensures reliable navigation and positioning. Additionally, the solar charging feature offers unlimited battery life under optimal conditions, which is great for extended outdoor adventures.

The 0.9-inch display, while not large, is sufficient for essential readings and notifications, and the solar charging lens adds significant value for outdoor use. This watch excels in durability with a fiber-reinforced polymer case and metal-reinforced bezel that meet military standards for thermal and shock resistance. The built-in flashlight with various intensities is a practical touch for outdoor enthusiasts. Health monitoring features like heart rate monitoring, advanced sleep tracking, and Pulse Ox provide valuable insights, though they are not intended for medical use.

Smart features such as Garmin Pay, smart notifications, and compatibility with the Connect IQ Store enhance its usability. However, the 0.9-inch display might feel small for users who prefer larger screens, and the memory storage capacity of 128 MB is limited compared to other smartwatches. Additionally, the need for solar exposure for optimal battery performance could be a limitation in less sunny environments. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Garmin Instinct 3 is particularly well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability, reliable GPS, and extended battery life.

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.