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Garmin Smartwatches For Sale

Shop Garmin Smartwatches for sale at TPC - The Pro's Closet. Browse popular models like the Fenix, Forerunner, and more. Read our TPC Quick-Take Review of the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Solar.

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2023 Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Solar Review - A TPC Quick-Take, The Ultimate Multisport GPS Powerhouse

When it comes to high-end GPS watches, Garmin is the gold standard. With the Fenix 7 Pro Solar, they've not only maintained their position but raised the bar. This multisport marvel packs a punch with its arms-length list of features, industry-leading accuracy, and impressive battery life. But is it worth the price tag?

The Nitty-Gritty

Right out of the gate, the Fenix 7 Pro Solar impresses with its solid build. The 47mm model (our sweet spot recommendation) weighs in at a respectable 73 grams, striking a balance between durability and comfort. The titanium and fiber-reinforced polymer case screams quality, while the updated Memory-in-Pixel (MIP) display offers crisp readability, even in challenging light conditions.

One of the standout features is the new built-in LED flashlight. While it sounds gimmicky at first, trust us – you'll wonder how you ever lived without it. Whether you're rummaging through your gear at night or need a quick light source during an early morning run, it's incredibly handy.

GPS and Heart Rate: Accuracy That'll Impress

Let's talk accuracy – because that's where the Fenix 7 Pro Solar truly shines. The multi-band GNSS support delivers pinpoint GPS accuracy that'll make map nerds weep with joy. Even in deep canyons where other watches struggle, this bad boy holds its own.

The new Elevate V5 optical heart rate sensor is no slouch either. It's giving chest straps a run for their money, providing reliable data even during high-intensity workouts. For the data geeks out there, this means more accurate training metrics and recovery insights.

Activity Tracking: Your Personal Coach on Your Wrist

With over 30 built-in sports profiles, the Fenix 7 Pro Solar has got you covered whether you're into ultrarunning, ski mountaineering, or just about any sport you can think of. The customizable data fields let you geek out on exactly the stats you want to see mid-activity.

Garmin's introduced two new metrics with this model: Hill Score and Endurance Score. While they're interesting additions, the jury's still out on their real-world utility. Some users report unexpectedly high Hill Scores, so take these with a grain of salt for now.

Navigation and Battery Life: Go Long, Go Far

The preloaded TopoActive maps with new shaded relief are a godsend for trail enthusiasts. Paired with the turn-by-turn navigation, you've got a reliable companion for your backcountry adventures.

Battery life is where the Fenix 7 Pro Solar flexes its muscles. We're talking up to 22 days in smartwatch mode with solar charging, and a whopping 75 hours of GPS tracking (which can stretch to 200+ hours in UltraTrac mode). The PowerManager settings make it a breeze to optimize battery usage based on your needs.

Smart Features: Not Just a Pretty Face

Although it's not trying to be an Apple Watch, the Fenix 7 Pro Solar holds its own in the smartwatch arena. You get smartphone notifications, music storage, and Garmin Pay for those post-run coffees. The Garmin Connect app, while not the most intuitive out there, offers deep data analysis for the stat-hungry athlete.

A cool feature for the adventure crowd is the Garmin inReach support. While it requires a separate device, having remote communication capabilities right on your wrist can be a literal lifesaver in the backcountry.

Pros:

  • GPS accuracy that'll make you question your own sense of direction
  • Heart rate monitoring that rivals chest straps
  • Battery life for days (literally)
  • Built-in flashlight that's surprisingly useful
  • Rugged build quality that can take a beating
  • Comprehensive activity tracking across a multitude of sports
  • Solar charging for that extra juice when you need it

Cons:

  • Price tag that might make your wallet weep
  • Bulky design isn't for the small-wristed among us
  • Garmin Connect app could use a UX overhaul
  • New Hill Score and Endurance Score metrics need some fine-tuning

The Bottom Line

The Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Solar isn't just a GPS watch; it's a statement. It's for the athlete who demands the best, the adventurer who pushes limits, and the data nerd who craves every metric under the sun. Yes, it's expensive, and yes, it might be overkill for casual users. But if you're serious about your training, obsessed with accuracy, and want a watch that can keep up with your wildest adventures, the Fenix 7 Pro Solar is worth every penny.

It's not just a purchase; it's an investment in your athletic pursuits and outdoor passions. Whether you're tackling an ultramarathon, planning a multi-day backcountry expedition, or just want the peace of mind that comes with having a reliable, feature-packed companion on your wrist, the Fenix 7 Pro Solar delivers in spades.

In high-end GPS watches, the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Solar really has few peers. It's not perfect, but it's damn close. So if you're ready to take your training and adventures to the next level, this watch is ready to lead the way.