Matchup
Skill matchup
Build vs Garen
Build adapted to this matchup
Starting items
Core build
Standard
Summoner spells
64%
33%Anti AD
Anti AP
DPS
Other options
Resolve
Grasp of the Undying
Shield Bash
Second Wind
Overgrowth
Inspiration
Biscuit Delivery
Approach Velocity
Power Spikes
Strength by game phase
Shen
GarenGaren's abilities
Passive, spells and ultimate
If Garen has not recently been struck by damage or enemy abilities, he regenerates a percentage of his total health each second.
Cooldowns
Cooldowns by spell rank
| Level | Q | W | E | R |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 8s | 22s | 9s | – |
| 6 | 8s | 22s | 9s | 2m |
| 9 | 8s | 19.5s | 9s | 2m |
| 11 | 8s | 17s | 9s | 1m40 |
| 16 | 8s | 12s | 7.5s | 1m20 |
| 18 | 8s | 12s | 6s | 1m20 |
Playing against Garen
How to counter and exploit weaknesses
Harass him constantly to prevent his passive regeneration from activating — each tick of damage resets the timer.
Ranged champions have a big advantage: Garen has no gap-closer except Q (speed boost), kite him by walking back.
His W has a very short window of massive reduction (0.75s) — bait it with a small ability before sending your real burst.
Respect his R kill zone: below 30-35% HP, Garen can one-shot you with R. Recall rather than staying in lane.
Source: op.gg + LTL Engine · Patch 16.9.1 · May 8, 2026