Varia Vision In-sight Display

I have one, have it paired to my 935 and works fine with the 935, but I have been having rebooting issues with my watch and not sure if it relates to Varia Vision or not yet.

I have tried it running and it works OK. I have a pretty low VO and therefore it does not bounce a lot, but could easily bounce around with looser glasses or higher VO especially at higher paces, but it can be used. I actually didn't like it running and I really like it for cycling. Seemed to constantly distract me with metrics right there running. I guess with cycling it is not as easy to get distracted by the heads up as you are watching where you are riding more than with running due to speed difference.

In any case I ran with it a few times and then stopped because I didn't like it, but certainly can be done. The alternative is the Recon Jet also, but this operates on it's own and does not pair to a Garmin device.

This is an interesting post.
I just ordered in Amazon the Varia vision, as reduced price (around 230) comparing with the official launch price.
I'm expecting to use basically when cycling, as I'm not sure the comfort wearing these stuff while running, due to the continous vertical movement.
Good to know that in theory this must work with the 935.
More information to come after testing the kit next week.

It also mentions that it can pair with the Fenix 5 but doesn't mention the 935.

For whatever reason the FR935 is mentioned in the "Accessories" tab and not the "Compatible devices" tab.

Does anyone know if this will work for running or perhaps it will jiggle/move too much?

Technically it should work and shouldn't move too much when fitted properly, but the problem is constant movement of superimposed image over visible terrain backdrop which can cause dizziness or other form of psychic discomfort. Being a very individual matter, your mileage may vary.

Will it pair with the 935?

Yes.

Has anyone tried it for running?

I haven't tried it personally, but I have read reports that it is somewhat disorienting and not very efficient.

Using with 935 for cycling. Works great and no issues. Used with 735xt before and also worked well. Never tried for running, but seems it would be a nuisance even if you run without much vertical oscillation.

I have one, have it paired to my 935 and works fine with the 935, but I have been having rebooting issues with my watch and not sure if it relates to Varia Vision or not yet.

I have tried it running and it works OK. I have a pretty low VO and therefore it does not bounce a lot, but could easily bounce around with looser glasses or higher VO especially at higher paces, but it can be used. I actually didn't like it running and I really like it for cycling. Seemed to constantly distract me with metrics right there running. I guess with cycling it is not as easy to get distracted by the heads up as you are watching where you are riding more than with running due to speed difference.

In any case I ran with it a few times and then stopped because I didn't like it, but certainly can be done. The alternative is the Recon Jet also, but this operates on it's own and does not pair to a Garmin device.

Hi all,

Since yesterday I'm the proud owner of the Varia Vision gadget. Honestly I'm overwhelmed by the performance of this rather expensive but very useful tool.
The image is very clear and sharp. There is no obstruction of road vision when wearing it.
I just find it a pity I can't use it with my Garmin Forerunner 920XT. A great sports watch I only have for 2,5 years.

Unfortunately so far I need to use my Garmin Edge 1000 as GPS device, which is not so practical to take without you as a runner. But the Garmin 935 is too expensive to also replace already my 920xt which does a great job and battery life is still awesome especially as a dedicated marathon runner.

As I was attracted to the Garmin Varia Radar functionality I replaced my Edge 800 3 years ago, but it would be tough to have to do the same for the Varia Vision and buying the expensive Forerunner 935.

Hummm..... a pity. I find it still hard to believe SW of the 920XT wouldn't support the Varia Vision based on a slower CPU than the Garmin 935.

BTW with the speed I'm running maximum 4:20 min/km the Varia Vision is doing well for reading the metrics. But I agree for cycling it will be awesome gadget to wear, no longer problems with direct sunlight. Also getting the necessary navigation data will be great.

Best regards,
Frank

Hi Frank,

First time I heard of a marathon runner wearing the Varia Vision.

I'm also a marathon (and half marathon) runner and very much inclined to buying this gadget.
As there's been almost a month since you bought it, I assume you have a much more assertive opinion about its pros and cons.

Can you tell us about it? I have specifically two questions:
Have you ran with it for a long run (half marathon or more)? Does it become uncomfortable - bouncing, dizziness, weight on the nose …?
Have you ran series at paces under 4:00 min/km? Does it stay readable?

I would greatly appreciate your answers as they would be decisive on my resolution to buying this gadget.

Regards,
Zé Pedro

Hi Zé Pedro,

I just bought the Garmin Forerunner 935 so I no longer have to use my Edge 1000 for connecting to my Garmin Vision. So this is already a great improvement.
So far I didn't do much of running with it. For biking it is perfect, perfect image, great to get navigation info.

As a long distance runner I can already state:
- for long distances it will become uncomfortable as indeed the weight although it is pretty light will still becoming annoying. Of course it also depends on the glasses you will wear. And also the weather...

- the faster you run the less readable it becomes, the bouncing will have a bigger impact, something that is not an issue when using it when biking.

So I think if you would love to use in the marathon race itself or for interval training it will be less usable.
For my "slow" endurance runs I love it. Usually I'm only focussing on my heart rate. The more data fields the less readable at least if you are running fast. But I think this is pretty much the same with a watch.
Adidas had once the micoach devices (Fit Smart, Smart Run, ...) giving audio feedback for the metrics, I love it.
In that case feedback was given when to slow down or to speed up depending on your programmed workout.

I will keep the forum informed once I have used it more.

Best regards,
Frank

Thank you very much, Frank.
Looking forward to hearing from you as you get more experienced running with this gadget