Garmin Forerunner 220 Running Watch Review
An accurate GPS Sports Watch is Essential Gear
The past decade has seen an explosion of so-called “gadgets” that are applied to every human activity imaginable. We have cell phones to keep us connected to friends, work, and social media.
We have tablets for those who prefer a larger screen than those offered on the average cell. Then of course we have the inevitable sports and fitness market. This niche is so competitive that for every successful gadget launch there are several that fail.
Consider how many other fitness tracking devices manufacturers have been knocked out of the saddle by the market giant that Fitbit is! But we runners and triathletes want more; we want distance covered, pace, maps, calories burned, lapsed time, and more. Enter the leader in the GPS sports watch field — Garmin.
The Garmin Forerunner 220
The 220 is the watch that I am currently using. Previously I used the Forerunner 310XT and while that was certainly a fine device, the 220 is definitely a step up, although it is less expensive.
Another advantage that the 220 has over the 310XT is that it is so much smaller and attractive enough that it can be worn as your regular digital watch during everyday activities.
Pros and Cons of the Garmin Model 220
The Pros
- Its got an easy-to-read screen with a one-click backlight that gives you enough time to read in the dark before it times out.
- The screens are highly customizable. You can display the data that you use most frequently.
- It is compatible with Garmin’s heart rate monitor unit and strap.
- GPS satellite acquisition is lightning fast, especially as compared to the 310XT. Of course, the actual speed probably depends on where you are; it is about 5 seconds for me.
- Downloading running data to the Garmin app on your computer is easy via the included USB cable. When you connect the app also determines if there is an applicable software update available.
- It features a built-in accelerometer to acquire distance and pace data when you’re running on an indoor track or treadmill, or when the GPS signal is unavailable. You can set it to automatically stop when you do, such as when you stop at intersections and then it starts recording again when it senses that you have resumed your run. No more fumbling with buttons.
The Cons
- The in-package documentation is really lousy as is the case with most other products today. You will have to download and refer to the online PDF to really dig into the nuances of set-up and operation.
- Personally I found the strap to be almost too short, barely adequate. My wrist is 7 1/2 inches around, lean and mean.
So there you have it; this is my impression. Garmins are not the cheapest fitness gadgets on the market but they are sturdy, accurate, long-lasting, and easy to use. Once again, you get what you pay for. In addition to the watch, you also get an online account that works with the web-based app.
The app gives you not only more diagnostic data than you will probably use, but also a great map of your route.
If you have any opinions or tips on the Garmin Forerunner 220, please use the comments below to let other runners know. Knowledge is power.
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