There is a lot of pressure for tech companies to step it up with new gadgets and Garmin now introduced the attractive and versatile Forerunner 735XT GPS watch. The Olathe, Kansas based brand calls the 735XT "the most lightweight multisport capable running watch" they have made to date,and it comes in at a scant 1.4 oz (40.2 g). Some of the built-in activities include running, cycling, swimming, multisport, hiking, XC skiing, strength training, paddle sports and cardio.

“The Forerunner 735XT is the ultimate GPS smartwatch for athletes who want dialed-in data for training and race day,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of worldwide sales. “It offers comprehensive data for all of their activities, keeps them connected with smart features including notifications and automatic uploads to Garmin Connect, and lets them customize their device to fit their needs with Connect IQ’s free
apps, data fields and more.”

The Forerunner 735XT is Connect IQ compatible and according to Garmin is the first device to come with the Strava Live Suffer Score app pre-installed. Allowing you to compare with your friends and online pals via Strava how much pain you have just subjected yourself to. A 60-day Strava Premium trial is included with the Garmin 735XT purchase, but you will still have to do the suffering yourself. The new watch is also compatible with the Vector™ pedal-based power meter system and the full line of Varia™ cycling awareness accessories.

The watch is water rated 5 ATM (50 meters) and so you can sport the watch in the pool, a lake, river or ocean near you, and of course that long shower and cozy bath tub.

And yes, you can still view incoming calls, texts, emails, calendars, social media alerts, and other notifications via your smart phone. This way you can keep that phone in your pocket.

The Forerunner 735XT has battery life of up to 14 hours in training mode and 11 days in watch mode. It
is available in black/gray or midnight blue/frost blue for $449.99. You can also get a run bundle, and triathlon bundle option for $499, and $599 respectively. The watch looks nicely balanced has a 1.23" (31.1 mm) display. The watch itself measures 1.75" x 1.75" x 0.47" (44.5 x 44.5 x 11.9 mm)