Garmin FR10 / 15

[hose1975]

So, I have a birthday coming up and my long-suffering husband has indicated that he is inclined to indulge my running mania and buy me a Garmin watch.

The question is, which one? I don't need a HRM at the moment, so I think that either the FR10 or FR15 should be suitable for my needs. I have read reports that the GPS tracking under tree cover is not great on the FR10: has anybody else found this? One of my prime reasons for wanting a GPS watch is because the GPS on my android phone gets very confused the moment I go under a leaf and the signal bounces around like crazy, telling me that I've covered rather more distance than I actually have!

Does anybody have either (or both)? Did you upgrade one for the other? How 'bout that GPS signal accuracy, huh?

Cheers

Jo

[misswobble Graduate]

I have the Garmin FR 10 and it's fine under trees as far as I can tell. I have a tree lined path I run down, plus the woodland trail that I go through, and so far it's been fine. My watch has gone bandy twice. Both times in the street. I wonder whether it was a software issue as it's been fine since. The FR10 is the cheapest one but I really like it and can't imagine running without it now. It's a great training tool. Loads of folks on here have the FR10 so you will get some honest feedback to help you make your decision

[sidbetty Graduate]

I have used my FR10 a few times and as far as I know it's fine with GPS If you just ensure you start it up as you are putting your trainers on and getting sorted as it can be a little slow to find the satellites in the first place. I got it as I just wanted something to help me keep pace once I can actually run and it's lightweight.

[swanscot Graduate]

I've used my FR10 for two years and never had a problem with tracking under trees. Two of my regular routes are in the woods and it records my route perfectly each time.

Start up time is fine too. It usually picks up satellites in 1-2 mins from stepping outside, but sometimes is as quick as 20 seconds.

[Tomas Graduate]

Any "real" running watch is going to be miles better than using your phone. Any GPS receiver might run into problems (pardon the pun) if the reception is sufficiently poor, but your phone will struggle a lot sooner.

[Zeinab Graduate in reply to Tomas]

You have a point here but can't the footpad device be used outdoor if the reception is bad ? ( I am not sure if thats even doable but i know it works for indoor )

[Zeinab Graduate]

I haven't had any GPS running watches before but while checking some

I found that review to be quite detailed and you might find it useful

dcrainmaker.com/2014/06/gar...

[gingernut49 Graduate]

I have the FR10 and it does all I need it to.

[Wozgod Graduate]

My wife and I both have the FR15 and neither of is have experienced any problems with GPS signal. If you think you might want HR data in future then it may be worth investing the extra now.