Garmin Forerunner 225 review

Garmin's new GPS running watch measures your heart rate from your wrist

Garmin Forerunner 225

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

We've waited a long time for Garmin to give us a heart rate training watch and while they're too busy catching up to break new ground, the Forerunner 225 doesn't disappoint. This is a well put-together, feature-rich running watch that offers training insights for people looking to take their running to the next level or make their cardio training a little more effective.

Is it better than the TomTom Cardio Runner? Yes. Is it better than the Adidas SmartRun? Yes.

Is it better than Garmin's own Forerunner 920XT? No, because, that's a watch for more serious athletes. Instead, this is a tool better suited to recreational runners and occasional marathoners. It's not as capable as the 920XT but it's far simpler and much more appropriate for amateur runners.

In short, the Forerunner 225 is probably the best chest-strap-free heart rate running buddy you can buy right now. Don't fight me on this.