Advice on using Garmin Fenix watch

[shaper]

Thanks to everyone for their contributions.

A lot of good advice.

 

With regards to the question of what I am currently using: 

I'm using the Sigma Rox 10 which I have been using for 3 years and absolutely love it and haven't seen reason to upgrade.

 

I have started swimming a bit in recent weeks and would be good to start tracking my progress there and I have long term prospects of doing some Xterra type events.

This is when the Garmin watch will come into it's full effect.

 

I think the handlebar mount is currently better suited to me.

I'll just have to bite the bullet and buy the Garmin HRM strap for about R1800 extra 

Garmin Premium HRM R889 https://sport.takealot.com/sport-garmin-premium-heart-rate-monitor-hrm3-soft-strap/PLID29432041

[Chingy182]

I have the Fenix 3, good enough for cycling, I have the Quick release kit which mounts it nicely on the Stem or Handlebar or Out-Front mount if you get one. Plus it is a real handy addition to use for your future Xterra adventures.

 

I do look at the classifieds from time to time to maybe add a Edge 510 or similar, just because the Watch face is a little bit small.

 

In hindsight, I would pay the extra cash for the Sapphire version as my watch has quite a bit of scratches after 2 years of use, but I would still not pay extra for wrist HR. I am used to using the chest strap, so that doesn't bother me.

 

Fenix 3 is everything you need, so if you can get it for a good price, take it. I don't see all the value to the Fenix 5 for the additional cost.

Yeah, I guess that was kinda my next step in deciding if spending an extra R4000 was worth it when "upgrading" to a Fenix 5.

 

I guess you get more accurate HR readings, more cool (but unnecessary) functions and updated maps...?

 

I think by the sounds of it the Fenix 3 Sapphire should suit my purpose just fine.

 

I read on another forum about the metal wrist straps also eating into your skin when you're bouncing around on rocky trails. 

[Vetplant]

Yeah, I guess that was kinda my next step in deciding if spending an extra R4000 was worth it when "upgrading" to a Fenix 5.

 

I guess you get more accurate HR readings, more cool (but unnecessary) functions and updated maps...?

 

I think by the sounds of it the Fenix 3 Sapphire should suit my purpose just fine.

 

I read on another forum about the metal wrist straps also eating into your skin when you're bouncing around on rocky trails. 

The R4000 odd you save by taking the Fenix 3 can buy yourself a nice Edge 510 or better computer in the classifieds if you look around. Or even a Stages Power meter. Both of which would add way more to your cycling experience compared to the fancy bings and bongs on the Fenix 5

[Chingy182]

The R4000 odd you save by taking the Fenix 3 can buy yourself a nice Edge 510 or better computer in the classifieds if you look around. Or even a Stages Power meter. Both of which would add way more to your cycling experience compared to the fancy bings and bongs on the Fenix 5

Agreed

 

Thanks for the input

[SeaBee]

BTW, for the HR strap - and I'm not sure about the 3, but presume it will also work that way - you can use just about ANY 3rd party strap, since the fenix (5) can connect via BT and ANT+. No need for Garmin specific strap unless you want the running dynamics featured in some and/or the chlorine resistance and stickiness of the HRM-Swim. The latter apparently not as comfortable on the bike and whilst running, though.

[Eldron]

BTW, for the HR strap - and I'm not sure about the 3, but presume it will also work that way - you can use just about ANY 3rd party strap, since the fenix (5) can connect via BT and ANT+. No need for Garmin specific strap unless you want the running dynamics featured in some and/or the chlorine resistance and stickiness of the HRM-Swim. The latter apparently not as comfortable on the bike and whilst running, though.

This!

 

Buy the belt (whichever brand) - you need it for some of the standard tests like Stress Test and Lactate Threshold (if you're into the extra little morsels of information ).

 

I'm currently using an old Mio belt with my Fenix3. I've had the belt for years and it works fine.

 

Edit: Buy a watch with Bluetooth and ANT+ it makes buying accesories and connecting to power meters way easier. The Fenix 3 sapphire HR comes with both . I'm not sure they still make a Fenix3 without both but there may still be old stock lurking about.

[Andrew Steer]

Need a new strap for my Fenix 3 after a Nigerian chap tried to pilfer mine off my arm on Friday night in Cape Town... 

I must say firstly I am not the biggest fan of the standard plastic strap, are there any better options out there?

 

I remember seeing some 3rd party versions too, but I'm looking for something nice and comfy for running - almost like the Suunto straps? Anybody managed to crack something of an upgrade?

[shaper]

Need a new strap for my Fenix 3 after a Nigerian chap tried to pilfer mine off my arm on Friday night in Cape Town... 

 

I must say firstly I am not the biggest fan of the standard plastic strap, are there any better options out there?

 

I remember seeing some 3rd party versions too, but I'm looking for something nice and comfy for running - almost like the Suunto straps? Anybody managed to crack something of an upgrade?

You can use the Fenix 5 22mm silicone quick change straps.  Very comfortable with a bit of stretch in the silicone.  Much better than the original Fenix 3 strap

 

https://www.easybike.co.za/fitness-gps/garmin/accessories/running/fenix-5.html

 

If you strap can last another 2 months (SAPO delivery) you can get on aliexpress for next to nothing https://www.aliexpress.com/wholesale?catId=200010211&initiative_id=AS_20180312050302&SearchText=garmin+fenix+5+quick+fit

[mikkelz]

I use a Garmin Fenix 3 for running and an Edge 500 for cycling. I wear the Fenix 3 while I cycle and use it's recorded activity to upload to Garmin Connect, Strava, etc. but never look at it while riding, other than to check the time (of day).

 

I bought the Fenix 3 for running (needed the battery life, among other things) a 65km trail run a few years ago. And have had the trusty old Edge 500 for ages. Recently purchased a Garmin "out front" mount which has made a world of difference.

[Andrew Steer]

You can use the Fenix 5 22mm silicone quick change straps.  Very comfortable with a bit of stretch in the silicone.  Much better than the original Fenix 3 strap

Thanks, that sounds like exactly what I need... I guess they will probably cost a gazillion bucks, but I will claim it back from the Nigeria consulate regardless 

[shaper]

Thanks, that sounds like exactly what I need... I guess they will probably cost a gazillion bucks, but I will claim it back from the Nigeria consulate regardless 

See my edit to post above ... around R800, but cheaper if you want to buy replacements for future from China

[Andrew Steer]

See my edit to post above ... around R800, but cheaper if you want to buy replacements for future from China

Are you sure on the 22mm part? My current strap is 26mm when I measure it? I need replacement fast unfortunately... the bastard completely snapped the strap when he ripped it off. 

Found this: https://www.takealot.com/silicon-strap-for-26mm-garmin-fenix-5-watch-combo/PLID48109145

[shaper]

Are you sure on the 22mm part? My current strap is 26mm when I measure it? I need replacement fast unfortunately... the bastard completely snapped the strap when he ripped it off. 

Found this: https://www.takealot.com/silicon-strap-for-26mm-garmin-fenix-5-watch-combo/PLID48109145

Maybe try Navworld, They replaced mine with a F5 strap quick change when it broke (have since sold the F3), so maybe it is the F5X strap on and not the F5 (which is smaller).. apologies for that, but is is the same silicone and much better

[WrightJnr]

5X strap fits the Fenix 3 perfectly. I have 2 of them. R799 for a genuine strap from various places.

[V12man]

Are you sure on the 22mm part? My current strap is 26mm when I measure it? I need replacement fast unfortunately... the bastard completely snapped the strap when he ripped it off.

Found this: https://www.takealot.com/silicon-strap-for-26mm-garmin-fenix-5-watch-combo/PLID48109145

I found 1 on killerdeals for r299 - genuine article.

 

But I prefer the look of my leather strap over the plastic.

[zeepee]

I have a Fenix 5x sapphire and the wrist based HRM is terrible, very inaccurate. So much so that I never use it and have to use a chest strap. This is very annoying paying that much for a watch then it doesn't work properly and then having to fork out an extra R1500 for the strap.  

I had a old Suunto Ambit and should've just kept it, the Fenix is a bit fancier and looks nice but does exactly the same job as the Ambit. 

 

Rather buy a Suunto Spartan if you're after the wrist based HRM or a cycling specific handlebar mount computer if you are only going to use it for cycling. The Fenix is overpriced for what you get.