Garmin's new top running watch, the Forerunner 970, has very big shoes to fill as it attempts to replace one of the best training and race companions available. Can a built-in torch, a software revamp and voice control really make a difference? The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. The new top-of-the-line Forerunner takes the body of the outgoing Forerunner 965 and squeezes in a much brighter display, useful new running analytics and more of the advanced tech from Garmin's flagship adventure watch the Fenix 8. These upgrades come at a steep cost of 630 ( 750/ 750/A 1,399) – 30 more than its predecessor – placing it right at the top of the running and triathlon watch pile, although less than the 780 Fenix 8.

The Fenix 8 is a landmark moment for Garmin. By adding voice control, an OLED screen and other niceties, it has merged its top Fenix and Epix adventure watch lines to better compete with increasingly advanced smartwatches from Apple, Samsung and other major players. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. The Fenix has always been where Garmin debuts its technology and features first before trickling them down into other products, such as the popular Forerunner series.