The release of a new Garmin Fenix is always an eagerly awaited event in the world of trail running and outdoor sports. This Fenix 8 follows in the footsteps of its prestigious predecessors, while bringing a host of innovations. Let's take a closer look at what this newcomer has up its sleeve.
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Design and ergonomics: excellence on the wrist
The Fenix 8 retains the codes that have made the range so successful, while slimming down its silhouette. Its robust case, designed to withstand the most extreme conditions, uses top-of-the-range materials that give it excellent shock resistance. Particular attention has been paid to ergonomics, with an adjustable strap that ensures a perfect fit, even during technical descents.
A screen to match your ambitions
The screen is a significant improvement on the Fenix 7. It's exceptionally easy to read in bright sunlight, which is crucial for trail runners and other sports enthusiasts. The touch interface, more responsive than ever, combines harmoniously with the physical buttons, enabling intuitive navigation even when wearing gloves or in the rain.
Developments that make all the difference
The multi-GNSS system in the Fénix 8 sets a new standard for precision. The watch excels particularly in technical areas. Tracking is ultra-precise in dense forest, while 3D mapping has been significantly improved. The "return to starting point" function has also been optimised for greater reliability in complex terrain.
Performance monitoring: more comprehensive than ever
The on-board sensors provide particularly accurate performance monitoring. The measurement of VO2 max has been refined to take account of the difference in altitude, providing more relevant data for trail runners. Recovery analysis has also been significantly improved, as has lactic threshold detection, which is now more accurate than ever.
Autonomy: the sinews of war
For ultra-trailers, autonomy remains a decisive criterion. The Fenix 8 hits the mark with its 48-hour battery life in high-precision GPS mode. In connected watch mode, it can last up to 30 days, a record in its category. Rapid recharging is also a major advantage: ten minutes of charging is enough for one hour of GPS recording.
Connectivity and ecosystem
Integration with Garmin Connect remains a benchmark. The platform offers a detailed analysis of gradients, which is particularly appreciated by runners. Training suggestions are intelligently adapted to your progress, while route synchronisation is instantaneous.
The pluses and minuses of the watch
Highlights
The excellence of this Fenix 8 is demonstrated by its exceptional GPS accuracy, its benchmark battery life and its rock-solid robustness. The advanced trail analyses make it an indispensable tool for enthusiasts.
Points of attention
There are a few aspects worth highlighting: its high price may give some users pause for thought, while some advanced functions require time to learn. Its imposing size may also put off wearers with thin wrists. However, Garmin
Our verdict on the Garmin Fenix 8
The Garmin Fenix 8 is the absolute benchmark for demanding trail runners - one of the most advanced and best gps watches. Its premium positioning is justified by significant improvements in terms of GPS accuracy, battery life and performance analysis. Upgrading from a Fenix 7 is justified primarily for users looking for absolute GPS accuracy and even more advanced analysis.
This watch is particularly aimed at experienced trail runners looking for precision and ultra-trailers demanding autonomy. Versatile sportsmen and women looking for a top-of-the-range watch will also find what they're looking for. Unless they are using a Fenix 6 or an older model, owners of a Fenix 7 can skip this update, unless they are particularly sensitive to the improvements in GPS precision and performance analysis.
