Forerunner 20th Anniversary
Thank you runners, for sharing the joy and sweat of your every run in the past twenty years. Your passion for running is our starting point!
Watch Now
EVERY RUN
STARTS HERE
Evolution
For 20 years we have been committed to exploring cutting-edge technology and peak craftsmanship
The Garmin Forerunner series has become a modern icon
opening up limitless possibilities for sports lovers.
2003-2010
From wild ambition
to practical application
In 2000, the United States government opened up GPS systems to civilian use, kicking off a golden era for commercial GPS applications. Garmin already had a strong foothold in handheld outdoor devices which, when instilled with the passion of runners, let to the development of the world's first GPS outdoor sports wearable.
-
2003
Forerunner 201
The world's first GPS fitness watch
The story starts with an idea from Garmin engineer and keen runner Claudette Stevenson one day during product testing. Strapping a mountaineering GPS unit onto her wrist, she was amazed to find that it measured her distance and speed very effectively. Next came a flash of insight: "why not use this kind portable GPS to make a device for runners?" And thus, the Forerunner was born…
-
2008
Forerunner 405
The first round-faced GPS sports watch
This model featured greatly optimized antenna technology and a design that evolved from a computer-style appearance to a wristwatch design. Its innovative smart touch ring allows users quickly browse data such as pace, distance, and heart rate zones. The ‘virtual runner’ feature was also introduced, leading the further development of Garmin’s Running Science.
-
2009
Forerunner 310XT
The first waterproof triathlon watch
This GPS sports watch was designed to be waterproof enough for swimming and to switch quickly between swimming, cycling, and running activities. It could accurately track swimming distances even in open water and had advanced features like ANT+ wireless transmission, 20-hour battery life, and an external heart rate monitor.
2011-2018
Running science
proven by data
The launch of Running Dynamics and optical heart rate sensing technology kickstarted the use of scientific data to improve running performance. In addition to basic exercise metrics, these systems also let users track physiological indicators and running dynamics in order to improve their training.
-
2011
Forerunner 910XT
A modern classic and athletes’ first choice
With complete triathlon functionality, this model was light, waterproof, with low battery consumption. The watch had a large screen and barometric altimeter and was capable of tracking over 100 performance and fitness metrics. To no surprise, it drew the attention of Ironman athletes and ultramarathon runners.
-
2013
Forerunner 220/620
The Running Science era begins
These watches signaled a break from the past with color screens, cases, and wristbands as well as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. The Running Dynamics feature measured ground contact time, stride rate, and vertical oscillation data to calculate maximum oxygen uptake, estimated finish time, and recommended recovery suggestions.
-
2014
Forerunner 920XT
Packed with a decade’s worth of technological advancement
This watch boasted a large color screen, highly recognizable red and white body, improved battery life and triathlon features. It was also the first Garmin smartwatch that were able to sync with smartphones via Bluetooth.
-
2015
Forerunner 235
The optical heart rate era starts here
The Forerunner 235 freed users from the awkwardness of chest strap heart rate monitors by utilizing new wrist-based optical heart rate sensing technology and integrating heart rate data into customized training applications. It was Garmin's best-selling running watch till date.
2019-2023
The zenith of your training is daily life
Garmin’s acquisition of world-renowned sports data analytics company Firstbeat Analytics in 2020 marked a new era for the brand. Now, 24/7 continuous blood oxygen tracking provides runners a simple and comprehensive indicator so that they can understand their fitness status, and possibly even set a new PB!
-
2022
Forerunner 255/955
Full integration into daily life
The Forerunner 955 maintained the Forerunner’s position as an industry benchmark, with significant improvements in hardware performance. The watch featured multi-band GNSS GPS technology, solar charging support, and more.
LEARN MORE -
2023
Forerunner 265/965
The Next AMOLED Evolution
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Forerunner series, Garmin has introduced the most advanced watches designed for intermediate and advanced runners. Debuting a high-definition AMOLED touchscreen display in the Forerunner series, with a vivid and vibrant display paired with an unbeatable battery life, it is the perfect training partner for dedicated and determined runners and triathletes.
LEARN MORE
-
-
GARMIN SPORTS
The APP built for runners
Free to use, and even stand a chance to win amazing prizes. 100+ training classes for all level of runners. Immerse yourself in the world of running with featured articles and interact with fellow runners!
LEARN MORE
-
SPECIAL COLLECTION
Running
Events