Could the Garmin Fenix 3 HR be the next best GPS watch for you?

Digital technology in the way people travel and athletes train has come such a long way. Especially when you look at the past couple of years. When it comes to calculating your distance and ground coverage, there is no better watch to invest in than a GPS watch. If you are in the market for a great GPS watch, then we have got a treat for you. Today we have got a cool watch that every athlete and traveler will love.  This is the Garmin Fenix 3 HR. The Garmin Fenix 3 HR is the perfect watch for any athlete who values numbers and calculations in their training and daily activities. In today's review of the Garmin Fenix 3 HR, we will go over all the specifics about everything this awesome GPS watch has to offer. From its design to its tech specs, we have got you covered. Not only that, but we have listed some of top three alternative sports watches for any outdoor enthusiast. Let's get started.

Behind the Brand

GPS has revolutionized the way travelers get around. In the world of sports, GPS has enabled athletes to track their performance in such precise detail. When it comes to anything GPS related, there is no better brand that should come to mind then the Garmin brand.

Garmin specializes in GPS technology that is specifically made for vehicles, aviation, and marine exploration. As the demand for technology has increased, so has Garmin's versatility. Today, you can find the brand putting out awesome wearable GPS products that travelers absolutely love. Today's review will take an in-depth look at one wearable Garmin product, the Garmin Fenix 3 HR.

What we love about Garmin is the fact that it is so dependable. From its early influence in automotive GPS, travelers have depended on Garmin for accuracy when it comes to getting around. This brand trustworthiness and dependability transfers over to every product that they have put out since. Let's dive into the specifics of what makes the Garmin Fenix 3 HR so great.

The Garmin Fenix 3 HR Features & Benefits

1. Design

The overall design of the Garmin Fenix 3 HR is simply stunning. The black on black face offers a sleek design that is hard to ignore. The black silicone band is also a standout feature of the watch because just by looking at it you can see the durability. Although the watch is a little larger than some, you do not feel the heftiness of it when you are wearing it. And along with its size, although it measures 3.2 ounces in weight, the design of the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  is comfortable enough that weight is not an issue you notice when wearing it.

2. Durability

When it comes to durability and smartwatches, the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  delivers. The Garmin Fenix 3 HR was built with durability in mind. For starters, it offers a protective PVD stainless steel bezel. This stainless steel bezel not only looks cool, but it will keep the face of your watch protected at all times too. The bezel is paired nicely with stainless steel buttons that are almost inconspicuous. While the band is made out of treated silicone, it is up to the challenges of your adventures as well. The silicone treated band comes with a reinforced housing that will ensure that your watch will stay in place. Along with that, this reinforced silicone band is also super comfortable against your skin when you wear the watch. If you are a water sports enthusiast, then the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  dance stands up to any aquatic conditions. Your Garmin Fenix 3 HR is water resistant up to 100 meters. If you are a snorkeler or diver, then this is the perfect watch to take along with you on your adventures.

 3. The Band

Credit: Garmin Fenix 3 HR / ​Facebook

The Garmin Fenix 3 HR  comes with a silicone band that offers reinforced housing. Along with this, the silicone band offers optimal durability when you are out on a run. Along with the durability, the band is super breathable too. It features a series of holes that will allow for optimal ventilation when you're doing physical activity.  While the Garmin Fenix 3 HR comes standard with the black silicone band, you can change out the band for a different kind. For example, if you want to dress up your outfit, then you can swap out your silicone band for a leather one. The only downside to swapping out your band is the fact that it is a bit cumbersome. Instead of a clip on clip off band, you have to use a screwdriver to remove it.

4. The Face

We have talked about how beautiful the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  is. a major factor of this watch's beauty comes from the face. The face of this Garmin watch was crafted with design in mind.  The face of the Garmin Fenix 3 HR measure at 1.2 inches. While this face is just a smidge bigger than a majority of smartwatch faces, the size does not detract away from the performance at all. The face features a Garmin chroma display that is easy to read. Even when you are under harsh sunlight, the screen visibility in near perfect. You can switch from widgets to your heart rate with ease.  Along with that, the display is super user-friendly and easy to read. The face of the watch is protected with a high-strength dome sapphire lens. You do not have to worry about your watch getting ruined by harsh weather or by water thanks to this lens.

 5. Battery Life

The Garmin Fenix 3 HR  offers a good amount of battery life.  however, the battery life of the watch really depends on the settings you have it on. For example, if your watch is set on smartwatch mode, you can expect to get about two weeks of battery life. If you are running and have the GPS mode turned on, then you will see about 16 hours of battery life. For the Ultra Track mode which is also the battery saver mode, your Garmin Fenix 3 HR  will perform for about 40 hours.

6. GPS tracking

The GPS tracking capability is the focal point of the Garmin Fenix 3 HR.  And why wouldn't it be? After all, this watch is made by Garmin. This awesome feature Narrows down the audience for the Garmin Fenix 3 HR. If you are looking for a smartwatch just because, then this probably isn't the best watch to go with. However, if you are in constant need of GPS tracking for marathons and other activities, then this is the perfect watch for you. The Garmin Fenix 3 HR  features an omnidirectional stainless steel EXO antenna. This antenna also comes with a GPS/GLONASS satellite reception. This means that you will get optimal tracking. Even if you go and challenging and rigorous environment such as rough terrain, the tracking capabilities on this watch will capture your every move.

If you are traveling along the beaten path, then your Garmin Fenix 3 HR  is up for the challenge. The building sensor offers everything you need including an altimeter, barometer, and compass. Along with that, we love that the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  allows you to set checkpoints throughout your adventures. This way, you can have optimal tracking of your activity. Finally, we love that the built-in sensor also offers important information such as heading, elevation, and weather changes. If you are an environment where the weather can take a turn suddenly, then the weather feature can be a big help.

Finally, the Garmin Fenix 3 HR features both ANT+  and Bluetooth capabilities. This allows you to easily and effortlessly share your location wirelessly. Not only that, but you can share your routes and geocaches as well as download routes to explore too.

7. Fitness Training 

Credit: Garmin Fenix 3 HR / Facebook

One of the awesome features of the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  is the fact that it tracks your activity so well. In fact, if you open up the anaerobic training effect feature on your watch, you will be able to gain Insight on all your training. Get insight on your performance and your exercise volume from the past seven days. Not only that, but you will be able to compare your performance with optimal ranges.  This wealth of knowledge that your Garmin Fenix 3 HR stores can be super beneficial if you are preparing for a high endurance activity. Not only will your watch track your activity, but it will give you insight on how to improve your training routine so that you are in tip-top shape. If monitoring your performance, your training, and your recovery is important to you in a GPS watch, then the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  could be a great fit for you.

8. Improve Your Technique

One of the best things about the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  that we love is the fact that it allows you to progress. For example, it will help improve your technique and form. This way you can be sure to be ready for your big day.

You can look forward to your Garmin Fenix 3 HR  displaying important running back tricks for you to use when trying to analyze your performance. An awesome feature that the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  offers is the ability to capture biomechanical measurements. some of these measurements include your cadence, your stride length, your ground contact time, your balance when running, your vertical oscillation, and your vertical ratio. These important measurements can help you make fine tweaks in your training routine so that you perform at your best. Similar features are offered when you are measuring your cycling and swim training. For example, you can track your distance, your stroke count, and your pace too.

9. Activity Profile

Credit: Garmin Fenix 3 HR / ​Facebook

The Garmin Fenix 3 HR  is not just limited to runners. There are several other sports that the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  will cater to as well. For example, there are plenty of features that allow you to set up a swim training routine. You can measure specific activities such as your stroke and your overall distance covered. If you are a golf enthusiast, then you can set your Garmin Fenix 3 HR  to golf mode for an analysis of your performance. In golf mode, you will get information about your yardage to the front, to the back, and to the middle of any green. You simply need to download the course onto your watch, and then you are good to go. There is even a Ski and Board mode for winter sports enthusiasts as well as a Rowing mode for water sports enthusiasts. All around, the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  is able to track a range of sports and your performance in them. If you are a versatile athlete, then the Garmin Fenix 3 HR is a great option to go with.

10. Stay connected

Finally, we love that the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  offers all the features that a smartwatch would. You can stay connected easily with the Garmin Fenix 3 HR.  Notifications such as emails, texts, and alerts, will pop up right on your phone. Even if you are on the beaten trail off the road. You just need to connect your Garmin Fenix 3 HR  with any smartphone and you are good to go.

Speaking of connections, the Garmin Connect is a great application that will keep you connected to the fitness world. If you are looking for an online fitness community, then look towards Garmin Connect to offer it. You can go on Garmin Connect to upload any activity or routes that you have explored. There is also live tracking that is offered through Garmin Connect. Finally, you can always make use of your social media to share any activities that you have participated in.

11. Wrist Heart Rate Technology

If monitoring your heart rate is a feature that you need in a smartwatch, then they Garmin Fenix 3 HR  delivers. The Garmin Fenix 3 HR does a fantastic job monitoring your heart rate without having to wear a chest strap. Along with this, your Garmin Fenix 3 HR  can count steps and monitor your sleeping patterns as well. Based off of your heart rate, your Garmin Fenix 3 HR will be able to give you key information about your activities such as calories burned. Not only that, but it will allow you to quantify the intensity of your fitness activities. This will give you a better overview as far as your activity-tracking goes.

12. Garmin Face App

We love the Garmin Aace app because it allows you to customize your Garmin Fenix 3 HR  just the way you want. When you download this free app, you will get the opportunity to make personality adjustments to your watch.  For example, you can add photos to your smartphone, adjust the style for the time, and overall make adjustments with your watches face. selling outside

13. Price Point

Credit: Garmin Fenix 3 HR / ​Facebook

The Garmin Fenix 3 HR  starts at a price point of the upper $400 range.  When compared to typical smartwatches, this price does seem to be a bit exaggerated. However, once you look at all the specs and features offered, the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  really becomes a worthwhile investment. For starters, the Garmin Fenix 3 HR has so much to offer. With a range of sports that it can track, every athlete is sure to find something that means their needs.  Not only that, but you will have peace of mind knowing that you are investing in a product that is backed by a reputable brand. Garmin products are known to last for years because of their durability and dependability.

What Travelers Are Saying About the Garmin Fenix 3 HR

Travelers absolutely love Garmin Fenix 3 HR.  For starters, this GPS watch is one of the best GPS. When it comes to tracking your performance or your steps in general, the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  does an awesome job. It is able to go into specifics and details of what your activity has looked like. Not only that, but travelers and athletes alike love the fact that it features training modes that help you become better and faster at what you are doing. 

The only major downside that travelers have described with Garmin Fenix 3 HR  is the fact that the straps are not easily interchangeable. When compared to some other GPS watches, the Garmin Fenix 3 HR requires a little more effort if you are looking to change the straps. For travelers who like watches that can change from one look to another, you may be disappointed that it is not as easy with the Garmin Fenix 3 HR.  However, for the most part, the lack of interchangeable straps is not a deal-breaker for most athletes and travelers. 

Finally, travelers absolutely love the look of this GPS watch. It is sleek yet classy. The bulkiness of a GPS watch is not something that you will find with the Garmin Fenix 3 HR. instead, you will find a GPS watch that blends in with virtually any outfit and any setting. This watch can be used as an everyday watch without much hassle.

Alternative Hiking Watches You May Like

If for whatever reason, the Garmin Fenix 3 HR is not the best GPS watch for you, then we have got you covered. Below you will find our top three picks of some of our favorite GPS watches that we are sure will meet your needs.

1. Suunto Ambit3 Peak

If the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  has way too many bells and whistles for you, then the Suunto Ambit3 Peak is another great GPS watch to consider. One of the major selling points of this GPS watch is the fact that it has such an awesome battery life. Generally speaking, the Suunto Ambit3 Peak watch can go for two hours with one minute GPS accuracy and 30 hours with five second GPS accuracy. For travelers who love displaying their adventures, the Suunto Ambit3 Peak watch offers a unique capability to add photos in movement. When you add photos in movement, you can create a Suunto Movie that features highlights of your adventures. Upload your movie on popular social media sites to share with friends and family.

When it comes to some of the specs, the Suunto Ambit3 Peak watch delivers. It offers standard specs including an altimeter, a barometer, a compass, and GPS.  For water athletes, the Suunto Ambit3 Peak can come in handy because it is It offers 100 meters of water resistance.

2. Casio ProTrek PRG-270-1

If you like all the components that the Garmin GPS watch provides, but aren't really too keen on the digital aspects of it, then this next outdoor watch is a great pick for you. The Casio ProTrek PRG-270-1 is an awesome watch because it is incredibly rugged. It is durable and will withstand any of the elements that you put it through. Along with that, the Casio ProTrek PRG-270-1  features everything you would want in a hiking watch. It comes with standard features such as a thermometer, barometer, digital compass, and altimeter.

If you will be in environments that will get you wet, then rest assured that your Casio Pro Tek will make it through. The Casio ProTrek PRG-270-1 is water resistant up to 100 meters. Finally, the battery life on this watch is pretty awesome too. On one charge, you can expect to get about 9 months battery life. This is partly due to the fact that it uses a tough solar power recharging system that will always keep you on the go. If you are looking for a GPS watch, then you may want to steer clear of the Casio. The only downside to the Casio ProTrek PRG-270-1is the fact that it does not offer any GPS tracking.

3. Garmin Epix

If you really love the Garmin brand but the Garmin Fenix 3 HR is not up to your standards, then this next Garmin watch might be for you. The Garmin Epix is one of the best selling GPS brands for so many reasons. For starters, the high-resolution sunlight visible color chroma touch screen display is easy to use. The visual map feature will also allow you to know where you are at all times. Along with that, you can download plenty of maps onto your watch thanks to the 8 gigabytes of internal memory. When it comes to having a smartwatch, the Garmin Epix delivers. You can look forward to receiving emails, texts, and alerts directly onto your watch once you connect it with your smartphone.

For active Travelers who enjoy hiking, running, mountaineering, swimming, and so much more, the Garmin Epix might be the best watch for you. It can easily track and store all your performance statistics. For travelers are athletes who are preparing for a specific event, the Garmin Epix can help get you where you want to be as well.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to having the perfect GPS watch on your arm, the Garmin Fenix 3 HR  certainly delivers. From start to finish, the Garmin Fenix 3 HR has plenty to offer. What we especially love about this watch is the fact that it is so incredibly versatile. You can take it on any adventure and your watch will document and record literally every movement you make. Finally, we love how simply awesome the watch looks. Not many smartwatches or GPS watches can pull off the sleek look without being too bulky. This is especially true when it comes to GPS watches. We love that Garmin was able to incorporate so many awesome features into a product that is designed to look as awesome as it performs. To get your hands on your own Garmin Fenix 3 HR  click below.

Related Article: The Best Hiking Watch: 6 Top Contenders and How to Pick the Right One