You’d be hard-pressed to find a more trailblazing navigation system maker than Garmin, pun not intended. The Switzerland-based tech company got its start making navigation software for the aviation industry more than thirty years ago and has been a staple in the space ever since. While many other companies have adopted their own navigation software, few can compare to the all-around capabilities that Garmin brings to the table, as most other navigation software specializes in navigation for populated areas. Garmin, meanwhile, further exemplified its prowess in the outdoor navigation space this year when it released its latest and greatest navigation systems, the Tread Series.
The Tread Series includes three rugged, all-purpose, weather-resistant devices: the 10″ Tread XL Overland Edition, the 8″ Tread Overland Edition, and the 8″ Tread SxS Edition. Aimed primarily at powersports enthusiasts and overlanders, the Tread Series boasts stellar navigation capabilities for off-grid adventures. One of the hallmarks of the Tread Series devices is Garmin’s latest turn-by-turn navigation for unpaved roads and newly discovered trails, which will undoubtedly decrease users’ chances of getting lost in the remote wilderness. Moreover, the new devices also feature built-in inReach technology that leverages satellite communication so users can talk to and track their friends. The inclusion of inReach technology incorporates two-way text messaging, location sharing, and an optional interactive SOS, giving you a number of ways to communicate directly from the device. Garmin’s latest navigators also show an area’s topography with 3D maps, iOverlander points of interest, and list “Ultimate Public Campgrounds” to show potential campsites. They’re even compatible with select Garmin dog trackers, allowing you to keep track of Rover in case he runs off.
Worth noting is that the massive Tread XL Overland Edition was a CES 2022 Innovation Awards honoree, while the Tread SxS is a specialized device for side-by-side enthusiasts that features Garmin’s Group Ride Radio function, which is a push-to-talk microphone that riders can use to stay in contact with their friends. Retail pricing for the Garmin Tread Series Devices ranges from $1,300 to $1,500, and all are available to order now.
