GPS Watches for Triathlon: What to Look For

A multisport GPS watch is arguably the most useful piece of kit a triathlete can own. It tracks your swim, bike, and run data, monitors your training load, and on race day it can seamlessly transition between all three sports with a single button press.

Essential Features

  • Multisport mode: Transitions between swim, bike, and run with a single button press, tracking each discipline separately
  • Open water swim tracking: GPS-based swim tracking for distance and route in lakes, rivers, and the sea
  • Pool swim metrics: Lap counting, stroke detection, and SWOLF score for pool sessions
  • Heart rate monitoring: Wrist-based or chest strap compatible for accurate training zones
  • Battery life: At least 10-12 hours in GPS mode for longer races and training days

Recommended GPS Watches

Our top picks for triathlon multisport watches:

COROS PACE 3 — Best Value

The COROS PACE 3 has shaken up the market by offering features that rival watches twice its price. Full multisport mode, dual-frequency GPS for pinpoint accuracy, 24-day battery life in smartwatch mode (38 hours in GPS mode), and it weighs just 39g. The training metrics and structured workout support are excellent. Around £200-230. It’s hard to beat at this price.

Garmin Forerunner 265 — Best Mid-Range

The Garmin Forerunner 265 is the sweet spot in Garmin’s triathlon-capable range. The vibrant AMOLED touchscreen is beautiful, the training status and race predictor features are genuinely useful, and the Garmin ecosystem (Connect app, training plans, course sync) is unmatched. Around 20 hours of GPS battery life. Around £350-400.

Garmin Forerunner 965 — Best Premium

The Garmin Forerunner 965 is the ultimate triathlon watch. Full-colour maps for navigation, a stunning AMOLED display, titanium bezel, and every training metric imaginable. Battery life stretches to 31 hours in GPS mode. If you want the best and don’t mind paying for it, this is the one. Around £500-550.

Nice-to-Have Features

  • Training load and recovery metrics
  • Course navigation and breadcrumb trails
  • Power meter compatibility (for cycling)
  • Music storage for phone-free runs
  • Structured workout support from platforms like TrainingPeaks

Battery Life Matters

For sprint and Olympic distance races, most modern watches have more than enough battery. But if you’re training for a 70.3 or Ironman, you’ll want a watch that can last 12-20+ hours in GPS mode. Some watches offer battery-saving modes that reduce GPS accuracy to extend life.

For heart rate accuracy during swimming, consider adding a chest strap heart rate monitor — wrist-based sensors struggle with water and tight wetsuit sleeves.