How to Protect Your Garmin Forerunner from Scratches and Damage

A Garmin Forerunner is built for performance, endurance, and everyday fitness tracking. Whether you use it for marathon training, gym workouts, cycling, or daily activity monitoring, your smartwatch goes through constant exposure to sweat, impacts, dust, and outdoor conditions. The Garmin Forerunner series is designed specifically for runners and athletes who demand durability and reliable tracking performance.
However, even premium sports watches are not immune to scratches and accidental damage. Over time, small impacts and daily wear can affect the appearance and usability of your watch. That’s why protecting your Garmin Forerunner should be a priority from day one.
With the right accessories and care routine, you can keep your Garmin watch looking clean, functioning smoothly, and performing reliably for years.
Use a Tempered Glass Screen Protector
One of the most effective ways to protect your Garmin Forerunner is by installing a tempered glass screen protector. The watch display is the most exposed and vulnerable part of the device, especially during workouts and outdoor activities.
Runners frequently bump their watches against:
- Gym equipment
- Door frames
- Rocks and trail surfaces
- Weights and exercise machines
- Bike handlebars
- Backpacks and zippers
Even minor contact can leave visible scratches on the screen.
A tempered glass protector acts as a protective layer that absorbs scratches and minor impacts before they reach the original display. Many Garmin users on forums and Reddit also recommend using screen protectors because replacing a scratched protector is far cheaper than repairing a smartwatch screen.
At That Watch Shop, you can find high-quality Garmin Forerunner screen protectors designed for various models in the series. Their tempered glass protectors are designed to maintain touchscreen sensitivity and display clarity while adding reliable everyday protection.
Popular options available from their Garmin Forerunner collection include screen protectors designed for models like the Forerunner 220, 620, and 955.
Add a Protective Watch Case

Buy Forerunner Protective Case Now
While screen protectors defend the display, a protective watch case helps shield the edges and body of your Garmin Forerunner from impacts and accidental drops.
This becomes especially useful for:
- Trail runners
- Cyclists
- Hikers
- Outdoor athletes
- Gym users
- Travelers
Protective cases help reduce damage caused by accidental bumps and falls while maintaining the sporty appearance of the watch.
Many runners combine a tempered screen protector with a lightweight bumper case for complete protection during intense workouts and outdoor adventures.
You can explore a wide range of Garmin Forerunner protective accessories at That Watch Shop Garmin Collection.
Also Read: Why Every Runner Needs a Screen Protector for Garmin Forerunner
Clean Your Watch Regularly
Sweat, dust, sunscreen, and dirt can build up on your Garmin watch over time. If not cleaned properly, these particles can slowly wear down the surface and affect both comfort and appearance.
To keep your Forerunner in excellent condition:
- Wipe the screen after workouts
- Use a microfiber cloth regularly
- Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals
- Remove dirt from straps and buttons
- Dry the watch after rain or swimming
Keeping the watch clean also helps maintain accurate sensor performance and touchscreen responsiveness.
Avoid Placing Your Watch with Sharp Objects
One of the most common causes of scratches is storing your smartwatch alongside keys, coins, chargers, or metal accessories.
Avoid:
- Throwing your watch into a gym bag loosely
- Keeping it in pockets with keys
- Placing it face-down on rough surfaces
- Storing it near sharp objects
Using a protective pouch or dedicated storage compartment can significantly reduce accidental damage during travel and daily use.
Replace Worn-Out Straps
Old or damaged straps can affect comfort and even increase the chances of dropping your watch during activities. Replacing worn straps improves both safety and style.
That Watch Shop offers a variety of Garmin Forerunner watch bands and accessories suitable for workouts, outdoor activities, and casual wear. Their collection includes options designed for comfort, durability, and active lifestyles.
Protect Your Watch During Outdoor Training

Outdoor runners and trail athletes expose their Garmin watches to much harsher conditions than indoor users. Rocks, branches, sand, mud, and rough terrain can easily damage an unprotected watch screen.
Community discussions among Garmin users often highlight how quickly accidental scratches can happen during outdoor activities. Some runners report damaging their protectors within weeks, proving how valuable the added layer of protection can be.
If you are regularly:
- Run trails
- Hike mountains
- Train outdoors
- Cycle long distances
- Participate in endurance sports
then screen protection becomes even more important.
Read More: Traveling With Watches? Here Are the Best Travel Cases
Choose Accessories Designed Specifically for Garmin Forerunner
Generic smartwatch accessories may not fit correctly or provide proper protection. Poorly fitted screen protectors can reduce touch responsiveness or peel at the edges.
Garmin users also note that choosing quality protectors designed specifically for Forerunner models provides better long-term results.
That’s why it’s important to choose accessories designed specifically for your watch model.
At That Watch Shop Garmin Accessories, you can find Garmin Forerunner accessories made for precise fit, reliable protection, and everyday usability.
Final Thoughts
Your Garmin Forerunner is an investment in your fitness journey, and protecting it properly helps extend its lifespan and maintain its premium appearance.
Simple steps like using a tempered glass screen protector, adding a protective case, cleaning the watch regularly, and storing it carefully can prevent unnecessary scratches and damage.
Whether you’re a casual runner or a serious athlete, investing in quality Garmin accessories from That Watch Shop can help keep your smartwatch protected, stylish, and ready for every workout.