How to choose your GPS watch?

The GPS watch is a practical tool for training and performance tracking. Its use may be preferable to that of a GPS computer for triathletes and cyclists who enjoy variety and practise other sports, such as running or swimming. Compared to standard sport watches and activity trackers, the GPS watch adds, by definition, a GPS function that allows more precise data to be collected and a session route to be recorded, for better analysis of effort, gauging fitness and tracking progress.

THE DIFFERENT CHARACTERISTICS OF GPS WATCHES

The GPS watch market for cycling is dominated by established brands such as Garmin and Polar, which offer very wide ranges covering all levels of use and expectations. The richness of features makes the difference, such as connectivity, battery life, additional sensors (heart rate, cadence, speed) included or not… The range and price differences are such that a few tips are in order.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GPS WATCHES

It is clear that the GPS watch is a product that has evolved greatly in recent times with advances in miniaturisation! Even if some models still use an external unit to pick up the GPS signal, most current models directly embed a GPS chip (Global Positioning System). Thus, when the function is activated, the cyclist is located by their device, which cross-references the information provided by the roughly thirty satellites of the GPS system. For greater location accuracy and faster signal acquisition, some GPS devices also receive information from the Russian Glonass system and more recently from the European Galileo system (even though this network is not yet 100% operational), in addition to the American GPS system.

Among the essential information displayed live on the watch screen, you will always find speed, distance covered and altitude. It should be noted that high-end models prefer a barometric sensor — more accurate — over GPS data to provide altimetry information (altitude, elevation gain, gradient percentage...).

THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF GPS WATCHES

Two types of GPS watches can be distinguished:

GPS watches with optical heart rate sensor

They incorporate several LEDs and an optical sensor, visible on the inner surface behind the screen. Worn snugly on the arm, slightly above the wrist, these watches measure heart rate by evaluating blood flow in the vessels beneath the skin. Easier to wear since they do not require a strap, these watches nevertheless provide data that is often less accurate than that recorded with a heart rate strap, the use of which is preferable for intensive training. These watches with integrated optical heart rate monitor can, however, always be paired with a heart rate strap.

GPS watches without optical heart rate sensor

With these models, measuring heart rate requires the use of a heart rate strap. Some models include one; if not, make sure to choose a strap with a communication standard (Bluetooth, ANT+) compatible with your GPS watch.

FEATURES

GPS watches are connected devices and are generally multi-sport, catering not only to cyclists and mountain bikers, but to all-round athletes such as Triathletes. Some models are indeed well suited to the needs of the latter, with training profiles dedicated to swimming, cycling and running, along with specific performance indicators that help progress in each discipline.

For cyclists in particular, a GPS watch can be useful when paired with third-party training accessories, which are sometimes included but most often are not. A heart rate strap, a speed and/or cadence sensor or even a power meter are all tools that can enrich the data provided with a view to performance-focused training.

It should be noted that, while all GPS watches can be paired with a heart rate strap, the same does not apply to cadence or power sensors, which most entry-level models cannot support.

Basic information

Setting aside the basic information (time, calendar...) offered by all GPS watches, every model provides speed, distance and altitude data collected via the GPS signal.

All GPS watches now also incorporate a daily activity tracker, which provides information on sleep quality, the number of steps taken, calories burned throughout the day, recovery level... All useful information for monitoring your fitness level and setting goals in line with your current form.

Sport profiles

As GPS watches are designed for multi-sport use, they naturally offer different sport profiles, which become increasingly comprehensive as you move up the range. Most watches generally offer the three major sports of cycling, running and swimming. Some high-end watches allow the creation of ultra-specific profiles with customised data for each sport (cycling, mountain biking, paddle, strength training...).

Used with dedicated sensors, the GPS watch can provide the cyclist with information on their pedalling cadence and power output. For swimming and running, high-end GPS watches can measure sport-specific metrics such as stroke rate (swimming), ground contact time and vertical oscillation (running).

ANT+, Bluetooth compatibility

Not all GPS watches are equal when it comes to compatibility with third-party accessories and data transfer. Some only allow Bluetooth and USB connectivity, while others can connect via Bluetooth, ANT+ and Wi-Fi. This is an important consideration when looking for a GPS watch compatible with the training accessory you already own (heart rate strap, various sensors).

Thanks to their USB cable or Wi-Fi connection, GPS watches also allow you to download all the data recorded during a training session to your smartphone/computer, to then analyse it using performance tracking applications, whether from the brands themselves (Polar Flow, Garmin Connect...) or ultra-popular ones such as Strava or Training Peaks.

Navigation

Obviously, GPS watches should not be expected to guide the cyclist in the same way as a car GPS or even a cycling GPS computer. Models capable of displaying a map background are, moreover, rare and very expensive.

Most of the time, the navigation function of a GPS watch is limited to following a pre-recorded route, which is already very useful for cycling and mountain biking to avoid getting lost, and to test your progress on a familiar course! A return-to-start function, with information on the remaining distance to cover, is also often available.

WHICH GPS WATCH FOR MY ACTIVITY?

The more advanced a watch is, the more complex it can be to use, given the number of functions and settings it offers. So think carefully about the features you really need, those you will use most often, and choose your GPS watch accordingly. The ergonomics of the watch are therefore of great importance in terms of ease of use and handling. Some models feature a colour and/or touchscreen display, offering a better user experience.

Triathletes and swimmers will obviously prefer well-waterproofed models! Finally, if you are accustomed to long journeys, remember to check the battery life and memory capacity of the watch. The GPS function is particularly demanding in terms of memory and energy, and GPS watches discharge much faster than standard watches.