Garmin FR220 sports watch

Mid-range running watch packs Bluetooth Smart and improved waterproofing

Published: November 12, 2013 at 5:12 pm

Quite whether Garmin had the nation’s favourite tri magazine in their thinking when they named the FR220, we’re really not sure. But it’s a sure-fire way to get exposure with us.

Launched at the same time as the new top-end FR620, the FR220 will replace the FR210 as Garmin’s mid-range running watch.

Both units have GPS, with the major 220 additions being a Bluetooth Smart connectivity that uploads data to your smartphone (you’ll need to check your phone is compatible), improved 50m waterproofing capabilities and an internal accelerometer for treadmill speed and distance tracking.

Other improvements, say Garmin, are the auto pause function, the vibration alerts when you’re straying away from predicted pace, and the customisability of the data fields.

At first glance, both the 220 and 620 are slimmer than previous incarnations and the new black, red or purple bands provide some added style too.

Prices will be £219.99 or £249.99 with a HRM strap. We’ll be testing imminently, but head to garmin.com for now.