
User submitted reviews
Review by Triathlete
I did training without a GPS watch for my first Ironman in 2016, so I knew I wanted to look for one as I prepare for my next Ironman in 2017. I just couldn't justify the price of the 735XT with chest straps. Even though the 920XT prices has dropped, the watch just seemed bigger and older to me.
In December 2016 I bought the Forerunner 235 and it has been greateasy to use. I like using the live tracking so my family can be involved with my training, set up is very simple. At the end of each run I've been able to use Garmin Connect to study my performance and route. I like the statistical readings of the workout, and can start to compare each workout.
The watch is extremely light weight on my arm, and the wrist band is very comfortable. The optical heart rate sensor has worked great as well. I have noticed the optical HR readings are similar to other chest strap senors I've worn in the past while running and biking, so I haven't bought a chest strap for this watch.
While on the trainer I've warn the watch on the opposite side of my wrist so I can read it while in the aero bars, and the optical heart rate senor picks up my heart rate just fine. This week I linked my watch to the Garmin CadenceSpeed sensors for workouts on my fluid trainer, but haven't yet used it there much.
The watch display isn't as brilliant as online photos make it look, but that's not a problem. I find the battery life to be adequate - I wear it for 3 or 4 days before I charge it over night.
I've downloaded a few apps from Garmin Connect IQ stopwatchtimer (awesome), Swimming (haven't used yet), SR1 watchface (good).
I use to miss text messages when my phone was in my pocket while coaching, but now with the notifications, I always know when I'm being contacted.
I'm sure you'll enjoy the Garmin 235.
Review by Anonymous
Excelent medium performance run watch with wrist HR measurement
Review by NYslowrunner
I really like the watch its not as fancy as some of the newer models, but its great for me. I really like the large number display while Im running. And the garmin connect app is pretty nice. GPS seems pretty accurate although in the city (New York) itll have some trouble at times (Im assuming with tall buildings the signal can get lost thats probably an overall issue though, not specific to this watch Id guess). My only real complaint is the heart rate monitor does some weird flatlining on me. Its not every run, but maybe 30% of the time. I wear it the same way each time, so Im not really sure whats going on. Anyway, Id look into that if heart rate is something youre really interested in. If not for the weird heart rate Id give it 5 stars.
Review by Anonymous
I bought this item for my son b'day. He loves it.
Only thing I rated with 4 stars because of the battery. It's like cellphone battery. It needs to be recharged.
Review by mbc2run
I have owned a number of GPS running watches. What I want is an easy to use watch that gives me good info without a ton of frustration. This Garmin gives you a lot of info without being over-engineered. It is pretty intuitive, I can get pace, distance and total time without searching for buttons to push. I like the automatic wireless sync feature and other key data afterwards, like the recovery time. I also like that I don't have to wear a chest strap to get my heart rate. It's much more comfortable. The watch is lightweight and easy to read. I am very pleased with it and highly recommend it.
Review by Anonymous
My wife uses it for running and as activity tracker.