Garmin Vivoactive 4 smartwatch

Founded in 1989 in Lenexa, Kansas, Garmin has grown into a global leader in GPS technology and wearable devices. Originally established by Gary Burrell and Min Kao as ProNav, the company later rebranded to Garmin—a portmanteau of the founders' names. While the company was initially known for its pioneering role in aviation and marine navigation, it successfully transitioned into the consumer fitness world, becoming a staple brand for runners, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Garmin is currently incorporated in Switzerland for tax and business purposes, but its operational headquarters remain in Olathe, Kansas, USA. Unlike many competitors that rely heavily on third-party manufacturing, Garmin maintains a vertically integrated model, owning and operating its own manufacturing facilities, primarily located in Taiwan. This allows the brand to maintain high quality control standards over its hardware and software integration, ensuring reliable performance for its global customer base.