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Are these gaps with Garmin Running Power?

waltersjonathan
over 2 years ago

This is perhaps more of a discussion than a question. I've been using Stryd for a few years now but would be open to switch to Garmin Running Power, especially for the native integration into workouts. But these are the gaps I currently see:

  • Stryd ecosystem and analysis is more mature and geared around power. It auto calculates Critical Power and a Power Curve, and uses this to set zones. Easy to see actual against target
  • Garmin doesn't take account of actual wind (perhaps only forecast or expected wind from a weather station). No good for strong gusts
  • No way to tell Garmin the treadmill incline so Power will be understated

Am I missing any? Or is the Garmin more comprehensive than perhaps I understand? 

I like Stryd and have had no issues with it - but I'm not a die hard fanboy so happy to change if Garmin offers benefits or more convenience.

  • 0 over 2 years ago

    There is a video on YT by Tim Grose that compares Stryd's Air Power on the previous pod and the newest one and there definitely seems to be a not negligible difference between the two units when compared side by side. This could mean Stryd's wind meter is not accurate enough (or maybe prone to clogging issues after prolonged use). While I love my Stryd pod, there was certainly a distance accuracy issue when using multiple pairs of shoes (at least in my case). Also, relying solely on CP for racing pretty much means you have to run an equal effort race (as close to a fixed % of critical power as possible). When power is combined with Stamina though you can vary your effort and still be able to race to the fullest of your abilities. So while Stryd seems to be pretty responsive in pace changes and Power Center provides power related information in a more straightforward way I chose to not upgrade to the latest pod and embrace Garmin's approach to running power-it's not perfect yet but it's getting closer with every update.

  • 0 over 2 years ago in reply to Etupes25

    If / when Stryd can integrate into Garmins native power management then I wouldn’t think twice to keep with Stryd. That would be unbeatable. 

  • 0 over 2 years ago in reply to dkoukou

    Thanks for the link. He actually has another comparing Stryd and Garmin. Suggested the Garmin needs some refinement still. https://youtu.be/vE1-3k_8WJA

  • 0 over 2 years ago

    My biggest issue with Stryd is it's inability to withstand heavy rain. I have lost several pods due to water damage. It's crazy that something used for outdoor running is not waterproof. First one I lost due to my own stupidity not realising it could not do streams/ rivers. Other times a heavy downpour has been sufficient to kill the thing. Now I am super cautious as it's a costly piece of kit all told. Now with the daft wind opening in the pod I am susceptible to huge power spikes making a mockery of critical power and other metrics. Only yesterday this happened and my CP power updated to some crazy high number due to the pod getting wet.

    WKO is a total PITA now with stryd power,

    Desperately hope Garmin can sort out their power offering.

    The treadmill incline for garmin power would be a god send for sure.