The Oakley Meta Vanguard Glasses: A Game-Changer for Athletes
The new Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses were one of the standout announcements of Meta Connect 2025, particularly appealing to athletes seeking technological enhancements for their runs, bike rides, ski sessions, and various supported sports.
These innovative specs feature the ability to sync seamlessly with Garmin devices, allowing athletes to access real-time statistics without the need to stop and check their gadgets. Users can simply engage their device hands-free with commands like “Hey Meta, what’s my heart rate?” or “Hey Meta, what’s my pace like?” This capability offers a new level of convenience to fitness enthusiasts who want to stay focused on their performance. Additionally, the glasses can automatically log milestones from workouts, making it easy to share accomplishments on platforms like Strava, inviting social recognition.
However, it’s important to note that these advanced features are available only with compatible Garmin devices. Initially, details on which Garmin models supported this functionality were unclear. This oversight led me to purchase a Garmin Instinct 3, expecting compatibility for my Vanguard review, only to find it didn’t meet the requirements as advertised on the Garmin website.
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Fortunately, I’ve now gathered the complete list of compatible devices, enabling you to avoid the same pitfalls I encountered. Garmin offers a range of devices at varying price points, ensuring options for all types of budgets.
(Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)
Which Garmin Devices Are Compatible?
Smartwatches
- D2 Mach 1, D2 Mach 1 Pro
- Enduro 2, Enduro 3
- Epix Gen 2, Epix Pro Gen 2
- Fenix 7, Fenix 7S Pro, Fenix 7X Pro, Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, Fenix E
- Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 265S, Forerunner 570, Forerunner 965, Forerunner 970
- Marq (Gen 2) Adventurer, Marq (Gen 2) Athlete, Marq (Gen 2) Aviator, Marq (Gen 2) Captain, Marq (Gen 2) Carbon Edition, Marq (Gen 2) Commander, Marq (Gen 2) Golfer
- Quatix 7, Quatix 7 Pro, Quatix 7X
- Tactic 7, Tactix 8, Tactix 8 Solar
- Venu 3, Venu 3S, Venu 4, Venu X1
- Vivoactive 6, Vivoactive 6
(Image credit: Future)
Bike Computers
- Edge 540, Edge 550, Edge 840, Edge 850, Edge 1040, Edge 1050, Edge MTB
This information is accessible via the Meta AI app. It’s worth noting that some Garmin devices listed as compatible may only allow for recording health and fitness data in the Garmin Connect app for later personalization, without real-time updates.
To fully unleash the capabilities of the Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses and enjoy instantaneous updates and automatic milestone captures, ensure that your Garmin device is part of the above list or a later model that allows the installation of third-party software and specifically the Meta AI Connect IQ app.
Which Garmin Should I Buy?
If you don’t yet own a Garmin watch and want to pair one with your Oakley Meta Vanguard specs, which model should you consider?
(Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)
Our top recommendation is the Garmin Venu X1, a four-and-a-half star-rated fitness tracker that excels in both fitness and lifestyle applications. It stands out as an excellent companion for a serious triathlete aiming for personal bests or a casual jogger hitting the pavement occasionally.
If you’re looking for premium features, consider the Garmin Fenix 8. While it comes with a higher price tag, it offers advanced GPS capabilities, a sophisticated heart rate sensor, and prolonged battery life of up to 16 days. This model even includes a dive mode for underwater adventures.
For those on a budget, the Garmin Forerunner 165 is an ideal choice. Despite being more economical, it supports the new Meta AI app, providing essential features without overwhelming seasoned athletes with unnecessary complexities.
For more information on Garmin compatibility with the Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses, check out the full details here.
Image Credit: www.techradar.com
