Stride Issue and Recommendations for newer watch.

MsValerieAnne

Hey all! I've been using a Garmin Vivofit 3 on and off since 22 July 2016. This is because I'm having trouble with my stride. I set it and it doesn't stay/update my stride on the device or within the connect online website. So, I've been using it on and off because I get frustrated it's not correct.

This is the main reason, I haven't upgraded to another device from Garmin (I've been looking at the ones that are actually watches). Is this a problem with all Garmin devices, or did I just get "lucky"? The other devices I am looking at is the Forerunner 230/235, Forerunner 35, Forerunner 25, Vivoactive 3. I don't NEED a heart rate monitor on the watch (I've had a reaction to the one on the Fitbit HR2 after 6 months of use), especially if they all can connect to chest straps or arm bands. I just don't want to continue looking/trying to determine which one to get, if the stride count is messed up with all of them?


For example: I've had my device on me all day and it says I've only walked 1778 steps, a total of 0.69 miles.
I've also had my phone in my pocket (not all day, but most of it) and it says I've walked 1472 steps, a total of 0.71 miles

I have my stride set to 1 mile (5280ft) equals 2200 steps. This is a good 'between' steps for me, as I've counted it out and sometimes I walk less, sometimes more per mile.

I don't mind if the display is in color or b/w (which is why I have both in my maybe). I'd like to change the face up a bit though - but not mandatory. Other than that I mainly walk, but I'm learning to run.. and I use the weights/trampoline/body weight/jump rope/bike (mostly stationary) a few times a week (or at least I try).

Davidsdottir

I'm confused... the Garmin and phone were very close in terms of millage. Is there a reason the stride is so important to you? (Honestly curious) I've had wearable for the last 5 or so and never worried about changing the factory settings.

Meelisv

Surprisingly, default stride length works very well for me on my Fenix 3. Although I haven't really tested with real-life data that much except in the very beginning out of pure interest.
Even more surprisingly distance calculated from stride length on a treadmill is within 5% of what treadmill shows. Which is way more accurate than any other devices I have used.

Usually, though, dedicated wrist-worn devices are more accurate in terms of steps/mileage than step counters in phones. (Unless the device is ultra cheap).

Since Fenix is a bit overkill for me and really expensive too, if I had to buy one right now I would go for Vivoactive 3. Looks nice, is smart enough and is small enough to also suit well for most women.
But since my Fenix works well for me so far, though it's getting a bit old, I will wait for new models with integrated music storage support.