When Garmin releases a new Forerunner, we always pay attention. But when two GPS watches arrive at the same time – the Forerunner 570 (in 42mm and 47mm) and the Forerunner 970 – the entire endurance running world holds its breath.
At Triathlon Store , we had the chance to test them, compare them, and above all, consider them in a concrete use : running of course, but also multisport preparation , triathlon , and everything your training season may hold in store for you.
1. Two watches, two visions of performance
The Forerunner 570 is the natural successor to the 265 , with a significant leap in battery life, features, and a beautiful design evolution. It ticks all the boxes for runners who want to train better , track their progress , and benefit from the latest Garmin innovations… without breaking the bank.
The Forerunner 970, however, is in a different league: mapping , multi-GNSS , advanced sensors , and ultra-sophisticated performance analysis . It's the watch for all-around athletes, those who combine swimming sessions, cycling, and long distances. In short, it's a high-level multisport watch , perfect for those who live and breathe triathlon.
2. Garmin Forerunner 570: Built for Progress
Available in two sizes (42 mm and 47 mm), the Forerunner 570 is comfortable enough for everyday wear or training. Its AMOLED screen is a joy to read, even in bright sunlight. Inside? Everything you need to track your fitness , measure your progress , and train effectively .
- Garmin Coach integrated to guide you in your plans
- Monitoring of HRV , sleep , stress , and training load
- SatIQ™ multi-band GPS for remarkable accuracy
- Up to 11 days of battery life in watch mode
As for triathlon? If you are a beginner or if you want a reliable and accessible tool to track your transitions and disciplines, the Forerunner 570 will do the job, without any unnecessary extras.
3. Garmin Forerunner 970: for the most experienced
This is where we enter the elite category. The Forerunner 970 is the lighter (on the wrist) but super-powerful version of the 965. Ultra-complete, it leaves nothing to chance.
- Integrated mapping (with turn-by-turn navigation)
- Acute load analysis , training status , zone breakdown
- Optimal GPS accuracy , even in forests or urban areas.
- Advanced sensors for heart rate variability , skin temperature , recovery time , etc.
This is the perfect watch for demanding cyclists , meticulous runners and of course… committed triathletes who are looking for a complete tool from the first training session to race day .
4. Forerunner 570 or 970: which to choose at Triathlon Store?
👉 Do you run 3 to 4 times a week, want to progress intelligently , and track your performance without breaking the bank? The Forerunner 570 is for you .
👉 Are you really into triathlon, want to analyze everything, manage your training load and recovery , and use mapping? The Forerunner 970 is the right choice , and a worthwhile investment for all your multisport goals.
👉 42mm or 47mm size? It's a matter of wrist comfort . The 42mm version is better suited to smaller wrists without compromising on functionality.
| Features | Forerunner 570 – 42 mm | Forerunner 570 – 47 mm | Forerunner 970 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Case size | 42 mm | 47 mm | 47 mm |
| Screen | AMOLED | AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Multi-band GPS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Mapping | No | No | Yes (with navigation) |
| Battery life (watch mode) | Up to 10 days | Up to 11 days | Up to 11 days |
| Battery life (GPS) | Up to 12:00 AM | Up to 28 hours | Until 9 p.m. |
| Advanced health sensors | Yes | Yes | Yes + advanced analyses |
| Garmin Pay | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Garmin Music | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Multisport/triathlon tracking | Yes (basic) | Yes (basic) | Yes (advanced) |
| Sensor compatibility (HRM, cadence, power...) | Yes | Yes | Yes (complete) |
Why does a Garmin watch make a difference during a triathlon?
During a triathlon, every second counts and every piece of data can make a difference. The Garmin Forerunner 570 and 970 watches are designed to support triathletes at every stage of the race: in swimming, they provide precise tracking of distance and pace; on the bike, they offer smooth navigation and clear readings of power zones and heart rate; and in running, they help maintain the right pace while monitoring effort load.
Thanks to their integrated multisport profiles , transitions are seamless, while advanced sensors optimize recovery between training sessions. For those aiming for peak performance or simply comprehensive tracking, it's a true ally for intelligent progress... and optimal performance.
Our passionate opinion.
At Triathlon Store , we love to test, compare, and above all , recommend what we would use ourselves . Whether you're a pure runner, a casual cyclist, or a triathlete at heart, Garmin has released two incredibly well-designed watches.
🔁 The Forerunner 570 accompanies you in everyday life as well as in training.
🚀 The Forerunner 970 propels you towards maximum performance .
It is therefore normal to find their products at Triathlon Store , with our support, our passion, and all the expertise of a shop 100% dedicated to endurance sports.