Garmin 010-01614-00 Forerunner 735XT, Multisport GPS Running Watch with Heart Rate, Black/Gray

Athletes balancing multiple disciplines need a dedicated multisport GPS running watch that captures precise data across every leg of their training schedule. The Garmin Forerunner 735XT provides comprehensive tracking for running, cycling and swimming, eliminating the need to juggle separate devices for different sports. Its built-in wrist heart rate sensor measures your pulse continuously during exercise, giving you immediate feedback without forcing you to strap on a separate band before heading out the door.

Battery performance varies based on how deeply you engage the tracking features. In everyday smartwatch mode, it runs for up to 11 days on a single charge. When active outdoor tracking is needed, standard GPS mode supplies up to 14 hours of continuous operation. For longer outings, switching to UltraTrac mode extends operating longevity up to 24 hours, though that specific mode operates without wrist heart rate monitoring enabled.

Training feedback goes beyond basic mileage and pace. The watch offers VO2 max estimates, a race predictor tool and an integrated recovery advisor to help plan out hard efforts and rest periods. Wireless Bluetooth pairing links the device to your phone for smart notifications, live tracking capabilities and automatic activity uploads to the Garmin Connect platform. You can also personalize the screen layout using free watch faces and apps through the Connect IQ store.

The main trade-off comes down to accessory requirements for deeper data. While the watch measures wrist heart rate and standard splits out of the box, advanced dynamics like ground contact time balance, stride length and vertical ratio require pairing with a separate Running Dynamics Pod, HRM Run or HRM Tri monitor. In addition, determining your lactate threshold requires a paired chest strap monitor rather than the built-in optical sensor.

Verdict: This multisport watch is an excellent choice for runners, cyclists and swimmers who want reliable outdoor tracking and wrist-based heart rate in a water-resistant package. If you want advanced biomechanical running dynamics or lactate threshold testing right away, factor in the need for external monitors.

A great fit if you:

• Train across multiple sports like running, cycling and swimming and want one watch to track them all.
• Prefer the comfort of wrist-based heart rate monitoring during workouts instead of wearing an external chest strap.
• Need long battery life for extended outdoor workouts or multi-day use without daily charging sessions.
• Rely on smart notifications and wireless automatic uploads through a paired mobile device via Bluetooth.

Consider something else if you:

• Require full biomechanical running dynamics without having to purchase separate add-on sensors or specialized chest straps.
• Need wrist-based heart rate data to remain functional while running in extended UltraTrac battery mode.
• Prefer a lifestyle watch focused strictly on casual step counting rather than detailed multisport athletic tracking.

Confirm on the listing:

• Check whether the package includes optional tracking accessories like the Running Dynamics Pod, HRM Run or HRM Tri monitor, or if it is the standalone watch.
• Check the physical dimensions and strap sizing to ensure a comfortable fit on your wrist.
• Confirm the exact charger cable type and included packaging contents prior to placing an order.
• Verify smartphone operating system compatibility for Bluetooth smart notifications and Garmin Connect syncing.

How to compare your options: Consider which sports you actively practice and whether the device covers your specific disciplines. Look closely at battery ratings across both everyday smartwatch and active GPS tracking modes to ensure they match your workout duration. Finally, evaluate whether the core features you need rely entirely on internal sensors or if they require purchasing separate accessory monitors.

Select the correct tracking mode for your specific workout so the watch records metrics accurately for running, cycling or swimming. When heading out for standard sessions, keep GPS mode active to record pace and wrist heart rate simultaneously. If you are embarking on an all-day event where battery preservation is critical, switch over to UltraTrac mode, keeping in mind that wrist heart rate will be disabled in that setting.

Install the Garmin Connect app on your mobile phone and pair it via Bluetooth to ensure your workout files upload automatically after each session. Browse the Connect IQ store to install customized watch faces and functional data fields that show your preferred stats at a glance. Respect the stated operating temperature range of -20 degrees to 50 degrees Celsius (-4 degrees to 122 degrees Fahrenheit) to keep the watch running reliably in extreme weather.

Can this watch track swimming workouts?
Yes, it includes multisport features designed to track running, cycling and swimming.

How long does the battery last?
The battery lasts up to 11 days in smartwatch mode, up to 14 hours in continuous GPS mode, and up to 24 hours in UltraTrac mode.

Does it measure lactate threshold directly from the wrist?
No, measuring lactate threshold requires the watch to be paired with a compatible chest strap heart rate monitor.

Are advanced running dynamics included out of the box?
Advanced dynamics like vertical ratio, stride length and ground contact time balance require a separate Running Dynamics Pod, HRM Run or HRM Tri monitor.

Is the watch water resistant?
Yes, the watch features water-resistant construction suitable for swimming and wet outdoor conditions.