Why does this matter? Because this is a useful reality check for runners: a fast marathon does not require the newest, most expensive running watch. The RSS item suggests Sawe used an older, lower-cost Garmin model in London, which matters more to buyers than the usual product hype. If your main goal is pacing, training structure, and dependable tracking, an older Garmin can still make sense.
What actually changed in how people should think about running watches?
The important takeaway is not that a specific watch suddenly became magical because an elite athlete wore it. It is that many runners overpay for features they do not use. For road racing, the basics still matter most:
- GPS that locks on quickly and stays consistent
- Easy-to-read pace and lap data
- Enough battery for long runs and race day
- A light, comfortable design that disappears on your wrist
If the watch in question is indeed an older Garmin, that reinforces a simple point: newer hardware can add convenience, but it does not automatically make you faster.
There is also an important limitation here: the RSS excerpt does not name the exact model, so buyers should verify the watch before assuming any older Garmin offers the same experience.
Can a cheaper older Garmin still be good enough for marathon training?
Yes, for many runners it can. If you mostly train for 5K, half marathon, or marathon races, an older Garmin can still cover the essentials very well.
- Structured workouts: Many older Garmin models still support intervals, pace targets, and training plans.
- Reliable race data: Distance, current pace, average pace, and lap pace are often all most runners need on race day.
- Battery life: Older running watches often last long enough for training blocks and full marathon efforts without issue.
- Lower cost: This is the biggest reason to care. If the price is genuinely low, the value can be much better than buying a new mid-range watch.
For runners who do not need maps, voice features, or smartwatch extras, an older Garmin may be the smarter buy.
What do you lose by choosing an older Garmin instead of a newer one?
Lower price usually means fewer extras. That trade-off is fine for some runners and frustrating for others.
- Display quality: Newer models may have brighter or sharper screens.
- GPS improvements: More recent watches can offer better tracking in dense cities or under tree cover.
- Training metrics: You may miss newer recovery, readiness, or advanced performance tools.
- Navigation: Cheaper or older models may not include full maps or strong route guidance.
- Smartwatch features: Music storage, contactless payments, and richer notifications may be limited or missing.
This is why the best question is not “Is it good enough for an elite?” but “Does it cover the features I will actually use every week?”
Who should consider this kind of watch, and who should skip it?
An older Garmin is usually a strong fit if you are:
- Training for road races and mainly care about pace, distance, and heart rate
- Upgrading from a basic fitness band
- Trying to keep costs down without moving to a no-name GPS watch
- Happy to trade premium features for better value
You may want a newer model instead if you are:
- Running trails and need navigation or mapping
- Often training in places where GPS accuracy is difficult
- Interested in advanced recovery and performance analytics
- Using your running watch as an all-day smartwatch replacement
If you are shopping specifically because of the London result, check three things before buying: the exact model number, whether it is new or refurbished, and whether battery condition is still strong.
What is the practical takeaway if you are buying a running watch now?
The main lesson is simple: do not confuse newer with necessary. An older Garmin can still be a very good running watch if your priorities are accuracy, comfort, and value. The fact that a top-level runner reportedly used an older model should make budget-conscious buyers more confident, not more impulsive.
Buy an older Garmin if the price is genuinely attractive and the feature set matches your training. Skip it if you need maps, the latest GPS tech, or lots of smartwatch extras. And before purchasing, verify the exact watch from the original report rather than relying on the headline alone.
Sources: TechRadar RSS-linked article