Garmin has announced the fēnix 2, updating the popular outdoor GPS watch with new training options, updated easier-to-use interface and expanded smartphone connectivity. The original fēnix focused on navigation and tracking functionality, and the second generation, fēnix 2, continues to aid the explorer, adding multisport training capabilities. Whether running, climbing, riding, hiking, skiing or swimming, fēnix 2 provides users real-time feedback on their progress and helps them achieve their training goals. Advanced running dynamics, for example, can coach users to become more efficient runners. Fēnix 2 also features dedicated training modes like swim and ski modes to collect data and gauge efficiency. With ABC features like an altimeter, barometer, and a 3-axis compass, fēnix 2 provides navigation functionalities and guidance off the beaten path.
“The fēnix 2 combines the very best fitness and outdoor technology from Garmin into an easy-to-use wristwatch, making it the perfect training tool for multisport athletes,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of worldwide sales. “Users can easily switch from advanced fitness training features like VO2 max, virtual partner and a recovery advisor, to the GPS tracking features like TracBack and ski mode, all while staying connected with smart notifications and LiveTrack.”
Become a Better Runner
Fēnix 2 is the first Garmin wristworn device to include advanced running and fitness features in the rugged form factor of an ABC watch. Fēnix 2 displays real-time performance data such as distance, time, pace and heart rate (monitor sold separately), as well as the advanced workouts and running dynamics introduced with the Forerunner 620 running watch. Like the Forerunner 620, fēnix 2 can estimate users’ VO2 max to evaluate their fitness level. Plus, fēnix 2 can calculate recovery time and perform a recovery check after intense workouts, so users know how much time to rest before they’re ready for the next hard running workout.
The fēnix 2 also incorporates advanced running dynamics with the new HRM-Run heart rate monitor, which provides feedback on running form by measuring cadence, vertical oscillation and ground contact time. These metrics effect running economy, so fēnix 2 can coach users to be more efficient runners. With the Virtual Partner™ feature, users can set time, distance or speed goals, then push themselves to compete against their Virtual Partner. With the built-in accelerometer, fēnix 2 users can even track their distance and pace indoors without any additional accessories like a footpod.
Thanks to the Bluetooth Smart wireless upload capabilities, fēnix 2 can send runners’ data to the Garmin online community, Garmin Connect, without being connected to a computer. It can transfer the data through the Garmin Connect Mobile app on their compatible smartphone. This allows a user to easily track progress over time, and with LiveTrack, they can share real-time workouts with friends and family through email or social media. This provides peace of mind, especially if training alone. Also through Garmin Connect, users will be able to download the next seven days of predicted satellite data, to ensure the fastest possible satellite acquisition.
Ski and Swim Training
Fēnix 2 has additional activity profiles like Ski-Board mode, XC Ski mode and swim mode, which make this device even more appealing to multisport athletes. Ski-Board mode, for alpine and downhill skiing as well as snowboarding measures 3-dimensional speed and distance, which includes both the horizontal distance and vertical drop. Ski-Board mode has an auto pause function that pauses the time and distance tracking when standing still or going up the ski lift. It also has auto run detection where each run is counted as a lap, so users can see the data from each individual run. Every fēnix 2 comes with a strap extender so it can be worn over the sleeve of a coat, so data is easily accessible while on the mountain. In the dedicated swim mode, fēnix 2 can record stroke count, interval distance, pace and time for both indoor and outdoor training. For pool swimming, fēnix 2 and can count lengths and automatically determine users’ stroke type and SWOLF score to gauge efficiency.
Navigate the Outdoors
Like its predecessor, fēnix 2 comes equipped with a high-sensitivity GPS receiver plus an altimeter, barometer and 3-axis compass. It includes a comprehensive navigational toolset that allows users to plan trips and create routes, record waypoints, such as campsites or points of interest, and record GPS breadcrumb trails on the move (tracklogs). The TracBack feature can automatically reverse the track log to navigate back to the starting point, and the device can store up to 10,000 track points and up to 1,000 waypoints, which can then be shared wirelessly to other compatible Garmin devices or smartphones, or uploaded to Garmin BaseCamp. It comes preloaded with sun/moon info, a hunt/fish calendar and is able to display several time zones at once.
Rugged, Stylish Design and Smartphone Notifications
Fēnix 2 is built to endure the toughest outdoor conditions, featuring a scratch-resistant, curved mineral glass lens, and a water rating of 50 m1. Fēnix 2 also makes a stylish day-to-day timepiece with a sleek negative mode display with a red LED backlight. Additionally, fēnix 2 has an updated, easy-to-use interface that’s as simple as selecting an activity mode to customize the information displayed for the optimal training experience. The rechargeable battery can last up to 50 hours in GPS mode or five weeks in watch mode. Furthermore, fēnix 2 adds Smart Notification functionality, so users can pair their iPhone 4S or later with the watch to receive email, call or text notifications right on the device. This way, users can stay connected while their smartphones can be safely packed away from the elements.
In addition to the HRM-Run, the fēnix 2 is connects to a variety of other ANT+ accessories such as tempe temperature sensor, speed/cadence sensor, and the Vector power meter. Also through ANT+, fēnix 2 can act as a remote to start/stop recording and take stills on VIRB and VIRB Elite action cameras.
Features
● Tracks distance, pace and heart rate¹
● Calculates recovery time and VO2 max estimate (when used with a heart rate monitor¹)
● HRM-Run monitor¹ adds data for cadence, ground contact time and vertical oscillation
● Connected features², including uploads to Garmin Connect and BaseCamp for live tracking and sharing
● High-sensitivity GPS positioning, 3-axis compass with altimeter and barometer
Fēnix 2 will be available to purchase in March 2014.
