Top Smartwatch and Fitness Tracker Deals from REI’s Anniversary Sale: Your Q&A Guide

REI's biggest sale of the year is here, and it's packed with savings on outdoor gear and tech. Whether you're gearing up for a camping trip or planning backcountry hikes, the Anniversary Sale offers discounts on everything from tents to Garmin watches. To help you navigate the best deals, we've created this Q&A guide focusing on smartwatches and fitness trackers. From premium multisport watches to budget-friendly options, these picks will keep you on track this summer. The sale runs through May 25, and REI members can save an extra 20% on one full-price item with code ANNIV26. Let's dive into the details.

1. What are the top smartwatch deals at REI’s Anniversary Sale?

The sale features significant discounts on premium Garmin watches. For instance, the Garmin Fenix 8 is available starting at $749.99 (down from $999.99) for the 43mm model on Amazon, while REI offers the 47mm version at $849.99 (originally $1,099.99). This multisport watch includes a speaker, mic, on-device assistant, dual-frequency GPS, and robust sensors, making it ideal for serious athletes. Another standout is the Garmin Venu 4, now $499.99 ($50 off) at REI, Amazon, and Best Buy, matching its best price. It offers features like abnormal heart rate alerts, sleep insights, and a new wheelchair mode. For those with smaller wrists, the Garmin Lily 2 Active is $249.99 ($50 off) — its lowest price ever — adding built-in GPS and a physical button to the stylish design.

2. Are there any budget-friendly fitness trackers on sale?

Absolutely! The Amazfit Active 2 is a fantastic value at $84.99 ($15 off) at REI, Target, and Best Buy. It features built-in GPS, extensive health tracking, and AI chatbots that provide context to your data, all in a sleek design. For accurate heart rate monitoring without breaking the bank, the Polar H10 chest strap is $94.49 ($10 off) at both REI and Amazon. This device is known for its precision and is a favorite among gym enthusiasts and runners. These options prove you don't need to spend a fortune to get reliable fitness tracking.

3. How does the Garmin Venu 4 compare to its predecessor?

The Garmin Venu 4, now $499.99 ($50 off), builds on the Venu 3S with several new wellness features while retaining core health tracking. Like its predecessor, it includes abnormal heart rate alerts, detailed sleep insights, and audio-guided meditation. New additions include tracking for caffeine and alcohol intake, plus Garmin Coach — an adaptive training tool that tailors workouts based on your fitness history, sleep quality, and recovery. The Venu 4 also comes in two size options, catering to a wider range of wrists. If you prioritize advanced wellness metrics and guided training, the Venu 4 is a strong upgrade over the 3S.

4. What makes the Garmin Lily 2 Active a great choice for smaller wrists?

The Garmin Lily 2 Active, now at its lowest price of $249.99 ($50 off), is designed specifically for people with smaller wrists, combining style with functionality. Unlike the standard Lily 2, this model adds a physical button for easier navigation, built-in GPS for accurate distance tracking, and support for more sports tracking modes. It still offers basic fitness tracking, smartphone notifications, and up to five days of battery life. The jewelry-like design makes it suitable for both workouts and everyday wear. For women or anyone seeking a compact yet capable smartwatch, the Lily 2 Active is a budget-friendly Garmin that doesn't compromise on essentials.

5. Are there deals on accessories like heart rate monitors?

Yes! If you're after more accurate heart rate tracking than wrist-based sensors provide, the Polar H10 chest strap is a top pick. On sale for $94.49 ($10 off) at REI and Amazon, it delivers medical-grade precision and is compatible with most smartwatches and fitness apps. Its comfortable design and reliable performance make it a favorite among runners and cyclists. For those who already own a Garmin watch, the H10 can enhance workout data. Pair it with a smartwatch from this sale for a comprehensive training setup. Don't forget that REI members can also apply the 20% off one full-price item code (ANNIV26) to save even more on accessories or other gear.

6. How can I save even more during the sale?

REI members get an extra 20% off one full-price item or one REI Outlet item by using the code ANNIV26 at checkout. A lifetime REI membership costs just $30, which can quickly pay off if you plan to buy gear valued at $150 or more. This discount applies to many items in the sale, including smartwatches like the Garmin Fenix 8 or Venu 4, though it cannot be combined with other promotions. Additionally, some deals are price-matched at Amazon and Best Buy, so it's worth comparing before purchasing. Stacking membership savings with sale prices makes this the best time to invest in quality outdoor tech, especially with Memorial Day around the corner.