For years, my Garmin has quietly logged the miles on my running shoes, a subtle feature I barely noticed until it revealed my favorite Nikes had surpassed 1,000 miles. It was a fascinating data point, but ultimately limited in its usefulness. That’s now changed, thanks to a recent update that transforms gear tracking from a simple counter into a powerful tool for understanding your equipment.
This isn’t just about shoes anymore. The update expands tracking to encompass almost any piece of athletic equipment imaginable – bikes, skis, surfboards, even wheelchairs. Imagine meticulously charting the lifespan of your bike’s components, or knowing exactly how many miles you’ve carved on your skis. The possibilities are surprisingly expansive.
The revamped Gear section within the Garmin Connect app, accessible through the “More” menu, is the heart of this transformation. It’s no longer a simple list; it’s a dynamic database where you can add photos, detailed notes, and select from a comprehensive library of brands and models. This level of detail elevates gear tracking from a novelty to a genuinely useful practice.
One feature I’d been eagerly awaiting is the ability to designate different default gear for specific activities. Previously, Garmin only allowed a single default running shoe. Now, I can assign my well-worn trail shoes to trail runs and my newer Nikes to regular road runs, mirroring a feature I loved in a competitor’s app. It’s a small change, but one that significantly improves the experience.
Beyond individual items, Garmin introduces “collections” – groupings of gear used together. For cyclists, this means tracking not just the bike itself, but also tires, frames, and other components. A running stroller paired with specific shoes can be automatically assigned to street running activities, streamlining the logging process.
The update also brings gear management directly to your watch. While a dedicated gear viewer isn’t yet available, you can now view and modify assigned gear within each activity profile. Select “Run,” and you’ll instantly see the default shoe, along with the option to change it or skip logging footwear altogether. A visual bar displays mileage against the gear’s estimated lifespan, providing a quick health check.
This isn’t just about knowing *when* to replace your gear; it’s about understanding *how* you use it. The data provides valuable insights into wear and tear, helping you make informed decisions about maintenance and upgrades. It’s a subtle but powerful shift, turning a simple tracking feature into a comprehensive equipment management system.
