The best smartwatch for running?

Posted on April 2, 2021 at 11:16 am.

Finding the best smartwatch for running will help you achieve that PB you’ve been aiming for all season. Or, it will help you get back on your fitness journey if you’ve fallen off the horse in recent months (don’t be worrying, it happens to us all!).

So, whether you’re that seasoned runner chasing those fine margins, or the person who enjoys a leisurely run just to clear the head, we hope this blog will help you and your fitness journey.

As discussed in our previous blog – our guide to finding the best smartwatch for you – Fibit and Garmin smartwatches cater for different people, with the latter being the preferred option for sportspeople.

If you’re wondering why, read on:

- - Highly accurate GPS monitors
  - Heart rate monitors that even work underwater
  - Water and swim resistant, if you want to cool down after a run
  - Lightweight
  - Long-lasting battery life
  - Access to lots of running data, like VO2 Max

Here’s the kicker:

Garmin smartwatches might not have the aesthetic appeal of their Fitbit counterparts, but that’s not what they’re trying to do. These are all about arming you with the right features, be it pre-run, during your run, or post-run.

We know that running can benefit your health in so many ways, but you might not have know that a smartwatch can benefit your running.

So here’s our picks.

The best smartwatch for running: Garmin Forerunner 45

Simple, elegant and affordable, the Garmin Forerunner can satisfy the beginners, bargain hunters and the more experienced runners.

For less than €200, you get a sleek design with all the frills and spills needed for your running, as well as some neat features to help off the track or trails.

Here’s the lowdown:

- - Built in GPS with optical heart rate from your wrist
  - Adaptive training plans, VO2 max as well as activity and sleep tracking
  - Body battery energy level monitoring, stress tracking, incident detection and music controls
  - Battery life that last up to seven days
  - Waterproof up to 50 metres and swim proof

In our humble opinion, the Forerunner is the best smartwatch for running, whatever your ability.

Best smartwatch for running (Elite): Garmin Venu

If you’re willing to splash the cash, then the Garmin Venu is for you.

It has a brilliant AMOLED display, impressive battery life and a full suite of fitness features that make it one of the best all-round fitness trackers on the market.

It is definitely venturing more into the smartwatch territory, as opposed to the fitness trackers, but it’s sleek style allows it to float under the radar but still pack a massive bunch in terms of features.

Here’s what it packs:

- - Stainless steel bezel with Corning Gorilla Glass protecting its AMOLED display
  - Quick release bands
  - Water resistant up to 50m and swim proof
  - Body Battery Energy Monitoring that tracks your energy levels throughout the day and finds the optimum time for your workouts
  - Pulse Ox Sensor gauges your blood oxygen Saturday during and the day and during your sleep
  - Stress, hydration and respiration tracking as well as advanced sleep monitoring
  - Built in sports apps, Garmin Coach, custom workouts, Garmin Pay and much more

Best smartwatch for running (novice): Garmin Vivofit

This everyday wear tracker proves that Garmin doesn’t just cater for serious athletes and offers a more affordable range which gives its users an everyday option instead.

While the Vivofit lacks some of the more high-tech features its more expensive cousins offer, it still has plenty of advantages such as solid activity tracking and an unbeatable battery life. It doesn’t, however, have a built in GPS, heart-rate sensor or touch screen, but it works perfectly with the Garmin Connect app.

It’s also a band-style tracker, meaning the strap isn’t interchangeable. But because it’s small and subtle, it won’t cramp the style of your shiny timepiece that you might also want to wear.

Here’s the story:

- - Coin cell battery that last up to a year
  - Water proof and swim proof
  - Enough memory to store four weeks of activity data
  - Can track time, date, steps, distance, calories burned, weekly intensity minutes and weather through Garmin Connect
  - Boasts a ‘Find My Phone’ option

Final Word

At Intersport Elverys, we stock a full range of smartwatches, some of which you can check out in the visual below.

While we focused on an athlete’s preference in this blog, there are so many more options available to you, so do you research.

If you’re out for a run this week, make sure to let us know your thoughts on the best smartwatches for running. And don’t forget to enjoy it too!

Let us know what you think in the comment section below.

Guide to finding the best smartwatch for you: Fitbit or Garmin?

Posted on March 25, 2021 at 4:57 pm.

Written by Intersport Elverys

Smartwatches are all the craze right now, however, deciding on the best smartwatch for you and your fitness journey isn’t always straightforward.

Thankfully, the Intersport Elverys team is here to help you choose the right smartwatch for your needs from our range of leading brands, such as Fitbit and Garmin.

We’ll try and answer all the initial questions you may have before you take the plunge and purchase a smartwatch, such as…

What is the best smartwatch for your sport?
what is the best smartwatch for lifestyle?
what is the best smartwatch for battery life?
what is the best smartwatch for your budget?

There are so many choices to pick from, so before you do, read on to find out some of the most important aspects you should consider before taking the plunge.

What do you want from your smartwatch?

While Fitbit and Garmin smartwatches are quite similar, there are some significant differences between the two.

So, what are they, you might be wondering:

if you’re a dedicated sports person or athlete and want a smartwatch that will give you large amounts of accurate data during your running, swimming or cycling workouts, then a Garmin smartwatch may be best for you.
However, if you’re a casual sportsperson, or someone with little interest in sport but is eager to try and live a better lifestyle with the help of technology to track your steps, heart rate or sleep, then a Fitbit might be the best smartwatch for you.
If you’re a woman looking to buy a smartwatch, our blog on finding the best smartwatch for women might be of interest

What is the best smartwatch for your sport?

As mentioned above, if you’re an athlete and you’re buying a smartwatch, it is important to factor in what data you want access to.

Because Fitbit and Garmin smartwatches can track a lot of data, which varies across their devices and ranges, delving into exactly what you want might save you a headache down the line. Our guide to finding the best smartwatch for running might help you save time too.

Here’s the deal:

Fitbit made their name with fitness tracking and it underpins all their devices, meaning every model will track your steps, monitor your heart rate 24/7, monitor your sleep and give you inactivity alerts throughout the day. Their sleep feature insights are excellent, too.

Garmin, of course, offers similar features, but when it comes to sports and sport tracking, they come into their own.

They primarily cover…

Running
Cycling
Swimming

That means Garmin’s are also water resistant in the pool and the sea, while more niche sports like skiing, climbing and hiking are also offered on the more premium models.

External heart rate monitor connectivity and a Body Battery monitor can come in handy for the right athlete too.

So do your research, because the last thing you want to do is go open-sea swimming with a smartwatch that is not swim resistant!

At Intersport Elverys, we’re committed to helping your fitness journey, whatever the sport. So consider reading our ultimate beginners guide to running if this year is when you intend on starting.

Which is the best smartwatch for battery life?

Imagine you’re out for a run, moving well and have your 5k or 10k PB in your sight, but then your battery runs out! Or, you’re a person who likes to track their steps, sleep or heart rate religiously, and right when you go to check your metrics, find your smartwatch battery died because you forgot to plug it in the night before.

These are just some of the reasons why researching what smartwatch has the best battery life to suit your needs is crucial before making a purchase.

Want to know the best part?

Garmin pride themselves on producing fitness trackers and smartwatches that deliver battery life that last up to a week, sometimes greater. Fitbit is not far behind and is closing the gap all the time.

But don’t forget, using power-hungry applications can drain the battery life of most smartwatches, and the more active you are, the faster it will drain.

So too do the ‘always on’ modes on your smartwatch display.

Fitbit and Garmin are constantly working to improve battery life and have developed some interesting power-saving modes and fast-charging features on their product ranges to help alleviate any concerns you may have.

Find the best smartwatch for your lifestyle

If you’ve read this far and are starting to think that a smartwatch might not be for you because you’re not a sportsperson or athlete, then fear not, we’ve got you covered.

That’s because Fitbit and Garmin watches extend way beyond usage in the gym or during exercise and can actually be really helpful in day-to-day activities.

The release of the Fitbit Versa and Sense allows its users to access cool features like:

push notifications
make payments
a wide variety of apps, watch faces and music players
compatible to other external music devices, such as Spotify

There are also some cool features available that might answer the question as to what is the best smartwatch for women, such as stress monitoring, guided breathing exercises and female health tracking, which allows the user to log periods, track their cycle and gauge ovulation.

For any females out there interested in purchasing a Fitbit or Garmin and taking a step into your fitness journey, our guide to finding the best leggings might provide you with further help.

What style smartwatch do you want?

If you’re thinking of investing in a smartwatch but already own a nice shiny wristwatch that you’re hesitant to depart ways with, then you should consider a band-style smartwatch.

Fear not:

Both Fitbit and Garmin offer trendy band-style fitness trackers such as the Inspire or the Vivofit.

These two smart watches are simple and elegant and will tick all the boxes for someone looking for simplicity, practicality and the best budget smartwatch. While they’re also available in a choice of colours, so they won’t cramp the style of your precious timepiece.

What is the best smartwatch for your budget?

Both Fitbit and Garmin produce smartwatches to suit all budgets.

So, whether you’re looking for the best budget smartwatch or the more premium models, both brands have smartwatches that tick those boxes.

It gets better:

While features and capabilities are obviously limited with the budget options, Fitbit and Garmin still offer very impressive value for money smartwatches.

Both the Fitbit Inspire and the Garmin Vivofit are available for under €100 and provide plenty of bang for your buck.

But if you want to splash out that bit more, the Garmin Venu and the Fitbit Sense, or similar premium models, go for over €300 and beyond. But remember, it’s all down to your needs. Sometimes the best smartwatch for you might not be the more expensive option. Or vice versa; you might need to spend that bit more to find the smartwatch that works for you.

FAQ’s

Are all smartwatches compatible with iPhone’s and Androids?

Most, if not all, Fitbit and Garmin smartwatches will work with both Android and iPhone devices and will offer core features, like being able to view notifications, check the time etc.

However, it is important to ensure that your phone is fully compatible with the smartwatch before you make a purchase, so you can find the best smartwatch for Android or the best smartwatch for iPhone.

Are all Fitbit & Garmin smartwatches water resistant?

Most Fitbit and Garmin watches offer water-resistance, meaning you can wear it in the shower or in the pool and not worry about destroying the electronics.

But not every smartwatch is swim-proof, meaning they aren’t suitable for long distance, open-sea swimming and it is usually recommended to avoid swimming to prevent long-term damage.

Final thoughts

We hope this guide has given you plenty of food-for-thought before you make your smartwatch purchase.

If it has, you can check out our diverse range of wearable technology that will make you stand out from the crowd, like the hugely popular Fitbit Inspire, Fitbit Versa and Fitbit Sense, as well as the Garmin Forerunner, Garmin Vivofit and the Garmin Vivosmart.

Happy training, folks!

Meet the New Nike Epic React Flyknit Running Shoe

Posted on February 7, 2018 at 5:04 pm.

Written by Intersport Elverys

Runners asked for one shoe that could do it all: offer more cushion from the impact of each stride, give them the energy return needed to stay fresh late in a run, feel light underfoot and also be able to withstand wear and tear of impact and elements run after run. Nike innovators, engineers and designers came together to deliver a solution in the form of a foam, called Nike React.

The incredible new Nike Epic React Flyknit light-weight runners help reduce any wear and tear while yet they are super comfortable to wear.

“Nike React is more durable than any other foam we’ve tested in Nike running, meaning it will keep up with the needs of even the most dedicated runners,”- said Ernest Kim, Director of advanced footwear

“My favourite bit of feedback came from a wear-tester who said of running in the Nike Epic React, ‘It felt fun – it makes you want to run.’” – said Ernest Kim, Director of advanced footwear

DESIGN

The upper shoe is very simple with the forefoot, toe and arch being sculpted for flexibility and support purpose. The midsole on the other hand had to be taller beyond the perimeter in order to avoid “bottoming-out” and providing stability and cushioning of the product.

DISCOVER THE SHOES RIGHT NOW

The latest innovation meets all the needs of today’s runner without having to make any sacrifices. The Nike React runners were launched last week in London and will be available to buy February 22nd in store and online! Be the first to get your hands on them as you can pre-order yours TODAY online from Intersport Elverys. Pre-order at Elverys.ie

PRE-ORDER YOURS TODAY!

The Final VHI WMM Update

Posted on June 3, 2017 at 3:54 pm.

Written by Intersport Elverys

Our VHI Women’s Mini Marathon ambassador Hayley Coleman gives us her final training update before the big day on June 5^th. Hayley, a professional make-up Artist is no stranger to the Mini Marathon, having completed it last year, calling it ‘one of the most amazing experiences’

After months of preparation, she is nearing the end of her training and is intent on besting her time from last year. Her personal goal this time around is to hit 10k in the 50’s and we have no doubt that she can do it! With less then a week to go, we sat down with the Westport native to see how she has been getting on.

“My training is pretty much done and I cannot believe at how far I have come in the few months.’‘ Along with her busy schedule Hayley’s training consisted off 2/3 5k runs a week along with strength and circuit classes. As well as the training plan Hayley also signed up for a few local races to help with her preparation and helps build confidence.

Hayley explains ‘I try to combine this with strength and circuit classes, just to change things up and give me myself a bit of variety.’ Having this variety helps keep the training interesting and Hayley also gives some advice to any new runners or any ladies taking part in the mini marathon.

‘Pick a spot up ahead and run to that spot and if you have to stop do, but only for a short while. The clock is still ticking.’

Hayley went on to add: “If you feel like you are lacking the motivation it’s important to push through and you will feel the benefit from it. It was important for me in preparing not to deprive myself as you want to enjoy my training; moderation and balance are key.”

Hayley also gives praise to her local Intersport Elverys, who were always on hand to help out ‘I have to make a big shout-out to all the staff in my local store, they have been great; always on hand to give me advice on what the best footwear is and what clothing is appropriate for my training.’

With the Mini-Marathon a few days week away Hayley’s last minute advice is ‘I am going to take it easy this week maybe a few gym sessions and eat well and sleep well as that is so important.’

So ladies, don’t forget to visit Elverys.ie or pop into your local store for any expert advice or last minute needs for the big day.

Best of Luck to Hayley and all the ladies who are taking part on the 5^th of June. Enjoy your day!

VHI WOMEN’S MINI MARATHON – THE DAY IS HERE!

Posted on June 6, 2016 at 1:17 pm.

Written by Intersport Elverys

Hayley Coleman is one of the most sought after make-up artists in the country and will this year be running the VHI WMM for the first time. Elverysblog.com has been following her progress as she gears up the run on Monday June 6th.

We caught up with our Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon ambassador Hayley Coleman over the weekend as she geared herself up for her first Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon as the big day finally arrives.

Hayley has been hard at work getting herself race ready over the last number of months but she did meet a bit of bother recently as injury threatened to sideline her from the race. However, as she explains, she eased the pain with rest and recuperation.

“For the last two weeks I was carrying an injury in my lower back and it held me back a small bit so I have been doing smaller amounts. I’ve just been trying to keep myself ticking over without injuring myself further. I took a few days off because it got to a stage where it was very sore but the last week it improved and I was able to get back doing small amounts, just making sure I am ready for the race.

I’m feeling great now though and hopefully I’ll be able to do it in an ok time. The last week was just about getting myself as ready as I can before I run so it’s been good.”

The beautiful weather the country has experienced recently was a world away from the rainy conditions of when Hayley and thousands of others set out on their preparation for the Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon 2016 and that presents its own difficulties she said – albeit nicer ones!

“It’s quiet hard running in the heat – you have to make sure you’re well hydrated. I find anyway I can get dehydrated quickly but I make sure to take plenty of water on board before. It is nice though to run when it’s dry without wind and rain battering your face!”

“I normally don’t run with a water bottle anyway, I make sure I’m hydrated before my runs and on Monday there will be water stations along the way as well if I’m feeling like I need to get some water on board.”

It’s been a long road since Hayley started out but she admits that the fun element of the race has allowed her to work her training around her life and work.

“I was away last weekend so that threw my training a bit, but it allowed me not to start focusing too much on the race either. At the end of the day it’s not a competition, and you don’t want to start worrying about it. I’ve been as good as I can but I have allowed myself a few treats – you have to enjoy it all as well. I won’t go out over the weekend though , that would completely ruin me,” she laughed, before adding, “but I’ll be as good as I can and get as much rest as possible.”

Already looking ahead to this evening and her recovery after the event Hayley sung the praises of her foam roller once again – and advised her fellow runners to get their hands on one if they can. She also emphasised the importance of a proper warm-up ahead of today’s race.

“The foam roller I’m living on at the moment! With my back and glutes I need to use that before and after training. Sometimes I wasn’t warming up enough so that’s something that I’ll certainly make sure I do before the race is warm-up properly! It’s one thing I’d say to everyone doing the race, don’t start without a warm-up, it could be the difference between you finishing today or not. But certainly the foam roller has really helped. It’s great and it’s something I know I’ll be using on Monday night!!”

Elverys Intersport wishes everyone taking part in today’s Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon all the very best of luck on this wonderful occasion!

VHI WMM – WHAT TO WEAR!

Posted on June 2, 2016 at 1:21 pm.

Written by Intersport Elverys

It is almost time to put all the training of the last number of months into practise at the Vhi Women’s Mini- Marathon. But before you do, you get the chance to double check you are really race day ready. The coming days are your final opportunity to grab last minute accessories and apparel you may need. Not only can Elverys expert staff offer you advice but they can provide free services that will help you to make the most informed and appropriate choice.

Remember if there is something missing from your active wardrobe, fix it sooner, not later. You have trained hard enough to be entitled to enjoy the experience in both comfort and style.

Treat your feet right

No two feet are the same so when you pop into Elverys Intersport make sure to talk to our Fitness Experts about Gait analysis which will allow our staff recommend footwear to best suit your individual needs for free. We also offer foot assessment and customised insole moulding from Footbalance. These insoles are 100% custom-fit, with individual moulds made of each foot. They can provide support and added comfort during any activity.

Elverys have a range of technical socks with a variety of features to suit all – padded, seam-free, odour treated, compression, ventilated or braced arches. Elverys also carry the very popular Hilly-1000 Mile-Pro Touch Running socks that help to reduce the likelihood of blisters. Moisture wicking technology in the range helps to keep your feet dry and cool.

Don’t compromise

Chaffing, pains, discomfort, sagging breasts, embarrassment – why put yourself through it when you really don’t have to? Exercising without a sports bra or in the wrong size sports bra can be highly distracting and ultimately affect your training. With only skin and tissue in the breasts you cannot re-shape or tone the area once damaged. It is irreversible. Elverys carry the Shock Absorber sports bras, which has been research proven to reduce bounce and subsequently protect the breast and its supporting structures. Exercise in confidence, comfort and style after you have a free sports bra fitting. Staff will be on hand at all registration days to provide advice and sizing.

Add to this the brilliant EVB range of sportswear for women and you will be secure and ready to take on the world.

ProTouch, the exclusive to Intersport range, is designed with all ladies in mind – every shape, size, height and fit can be catered for. Let our friendly and helpful staff find what best suits your activity, style and shape. Not only stylish but practical too – the ProTouch range of t-shirts, tights & Capri pants offers smart features including moisture wicking fabrics, anti-chafe flat seams, high waist bands and feminine designs. With the Nike Dri-Fit Essentials and Asics Running Apparel ranges also available in store, there is no shortage of fashion friendly and practical clothing on offer for race day.

Weather dependent

With weather never a certainty (despite the glorious last few days, you just never know on the day!) it is important to always cover every possibility. A lightweight rain jacket with breathable vents should be a staple in every active ladies wardrobe – the ProTouch Madeline (in race day pink!) is an ideal jacket that isn’t too heavy should the sun break through. A baselayer or undergarment will ensure temperature regulation and may provide some compression also. Compression elements provide increased blood flow improving performance and aiding recovery – like the 2XU range which looks stylish as well as helping you stay injury free. By keeping temperature stable and staying dry you are protecting your body against not only the elements but sickness also.

Accessorize your ensemble

Accessories are always important as well and with our Ultimate Performance Waterbottles,