Garmin has unveiled the Forerunner 70 and Forerunner 170, two GPS running smartwatches designed to strike a balance between everyday usability and structured training without the premium price of high-end models. Both watches become available starting May 15, with prices beginning at $249.99.
Garmin Forerunner GPS watches offer balanced features for runners
The Forerunner 70 serves as the entry-level option in this new line, featuring a 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen and Garmin’s signature five-button interface. The combination ensures reliable operation during sweaty runs or rainy conditions. Key functionalities include built-in GPS, wrist-based heart rate monitoring, pace, distance tracking, and smart notifications. Safety features such as LiveTrack allow real-time location sharing with trusted contacts.
Enhanced training tools and diverse sports modes
Garmin has expanded guided training options for the Forerunner 70, enabling users to quickly create workouts based on fitness level, available time, and intensity. The Garmin Coach adapts plans daily by analyzing health and recovery data, while Garmin Run Coach offers run/walk and low-volume training options suitable for beginners or those returning to running. Related coverage: Swatch x Audemars Piguet Royal Pop Pocket Watch Debuts in Eight Colors.
Additional features include daily suggested workouts, training readiness and status indicators, wrist-based running power metrics, and detailed running dynamics. These are supported by Garmin’s Human Performance Lab, ensuring data-driven insights. Beyond running, the watch supports over 80 sports modes including cycling, swimming, and strength training.
Comprehensive health tracking and battery life
The Forerunner 70 provides robust health monitoring with sleep tracking, sleep coaching, heart rate variability status, Pulse Ox, breathing pattern analysis, and lifestyle logging. Its battery lasts up to 13 days in smartwatch mode. The watch is available in multiple colors, such as citron, soft pink, tidal blue, cool lavender, black, and whitestone.
What the Forerunner 170 adds for convenience and versatility
The Forerunner 170 builds on the 70’s core features by including Garmin Pay for contactless payments. Additionally, the Forerunner 170 Music variant supports offline music downloads from compatible third-party services, allowing runners to leave their phones behind while enjoying music via Bluetooth headphones. This makes the 170 a practical choice for users seeking both fitness tracking and everyday convenience.
Pricing and availability
The Forerunner 70 is priced at $249.99, while the Forerunner 170 costs $299.99. The Forerunner 170 Music model is available for $349.99. All three variants will be released on May 15.
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