Which Watch Is Better For Multisport Athletes? Suunto Vertical Or Garmin Forerunner 955

Choosing the right multisport watch is essential for athletes who participate in various disciplines such as running, cycling, swimming, and more. Two popular options on the market are the Suunto Vertical and the Garmin Forerunner 955. Both devices offer a range of features tailored to multisport athletes, but which one is ultimately better? This article compares their key aspects to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Suunto Vertical features a robust and lightweight design, making it comfortable for long training sessions. Its durable materials ensure resilience against harsh conditions. The Garmin Forerunner 955 also boasts a sleek, lightweight design with a high-quality build, suitable for everyday wear and intense workouts.

Display and User Interface

The Suunto Vertical has a clear, transflective display that performs well outdoors, even in bright sunlight. Its interface is straightforward, emphasizing ease of use during activity. The Garmin Forerunner 955 offers a vibrant AMOLED display, providing sharp visuals and detailed maps. Its user interface is highly customizable, catering to tech-savvy athletes.

Multisport and Training Features

Both watches support multiple sports modes, including running, cycling, swimming, and more. The Suunto Vertical provides comprehensive training analytics and route tracking, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The Garmin Forerunner 955 excels with advanced training metrics, adaptive training plans, and integrated GPS navigation, making it suitable for serious athletes.

Battery Life

The Suunto Vertical offers impressive battery life, lasting up to 20 days in smartwatch mode and several hours in GPS mode. The Garmin Forerunner 955 provides around 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and approximately 24 hours with GPS active, which is sufficient for long-distance events.

Smart Features

Both watches include smart notifications, music controls, and compatibility with smartphones. The Garmin Forerunner 955 supports music storage and streaming services, adding convenience for workouts without a phone. The Suunto Vertical offers basic smart features but focuses more on athletic performance data.

Price and Value

The Suunto Vertical is generally priced higher, reflecting its premium build and outdoor-focused features. The Garmin Forerunner 955 offers a competitive price point with extensive features, making it a popular choice among multisport athletes seeking value.

Conclusion

Both the Suunto Vertical and Garmin Forerunner 955 are excellent multisport watches, each with unique strengths. The Suunto Vertical is ideal for outdoor athletes who prioritize durability and straightforward analytics. The Garmin Forerunner 955 suits athletes who want advanced training features, customizable interfaces, and smart capabilities. Your choice depends on your specific training needs and preferences.