The Best Watches for Runners
For some of us, it's hard to forget the days of lugging around wristwatches and GPS armbands the size of a smartphone. But we're happy to report that such devices have come a long way. Avid runners and athletes can appreciate the advanced designs of various models, while everyday users can relish the accessibility of music and GPS on the go. To help you save time, we've compiled a list of some of the best running watches on the market. Read on to find your next workout buddy, music player, and time-keeper all in one.
Garmin 010-01689-00 Forerunner 35
A Smart Choice
You’re probably familiar with the Garmin brand from the first iterations of mobile GPS units for your car or wrist, but the Forerunner 35 demonstrates just how far the company has come with wearable technology. A 1″x1″ digital display shows easy-to-use tracking functions, activity metrics, and even messaging and music interfaces. With the Garmin Connect application, you can set your watch to automatically upload workout data to an online community of fitness folks. The app also allows you to download music and set messaging functionality, all from the comfort of your wrist.
Pros:
- The display is large enough to be functional but small enough to fit thinner wrists
- Garmin Connect can automatically upload and download workout data
- Compatible with both Android and iOS devices (4.4 OS or later, 10.0 iOS or later, respectively)
- Long-lasting battery life
Cons:
- Low screen resolution at 128 x 128 pixels
Polar M430 GPS Running Watch
Watch Where You Walk
Part of the struggle of choosing a running watch is finding one with a display large enough to see, but small enough to fit on your wrist comfortably. The Polar M430 strikes this balance with ease. The oblong screen shows activity tracking clearly, even when running or exercising indoors, while the adjustable wrist band maintains a secure fit. Most users enjoy a charge that lasts for a full week when utilizing GPS and heart-monitoring capabilities for an hour per day, on average. The Polar app also helps you track overall data and personalize workout plans, while features like “recovery status” ensure you’re ready for your next run.
Pros:
- Large, oblong digital display with a backlight for low-light environments
- 24/7 activity tracking and data uploading via Polar app
- Can create specialized workout plans with the app
Cons:
- The proprietary charging cable is not compatible with the typical USB plug-in
Suunto 9 GPS Sports Watch
Track It All
You’ll have to fork over a pretty penny for the Suunto 9, but serious athletes — especially those training for events or competitions — should definitely consider this model as a front-runner for activity tracking. The watch offers 80 different sport modes for varied training, along with a barometer to measure altitude, weather patterns, and sunrise/sunset times. The battery promises up to 120 hours of active tracking and the whole unit is waterproof up to 100 meters, making it a tried-and-true multi-sport companion. It even boasts sleep tracking — which can often be ignored in the training process — and plenty of smartphone connectivity.
Pros:
- Accurate barometer to measure altitude, weather, and sunrise/sunset times
- Smart battery life up to 120 hours
- Suunto application and smartphone compatibility for accessibility and data accumulation
Cons:
- High price, especially for the everyday athlete
Fitbit Charge 4 Fitness and Activity Tracker
Sleek and Simple
Fitbit’s brand has almost become synonymous with activity tracking, and for good reason. The Charge 4 combines a sleek, minimalist design with spot-on activity tracking at a reasonable price for even the most casual user. Whether you’re training for a marathon or just counting steps and listening to music, this unit is sure to impress. It offers real-time tracking in over 20, goal-oriented sport modes, so you can be sure to hit your peak heart-rate no matter your exercise method. If you’re having trouble sleeping, learn to monitor and optimize REM cycles and sleep schedules using their Sleep Score on the Fitbit app.
Pros:
- Slim, understated design for minimalist wearers while maintaining a 7-day battery life
- Over 20 goal-oriented sport modes to track activity and meet target heart-rates
- Easy music controls and screen functionality
- Sleep Score helps monitor your quality of rest
Cons:
- UI (user interface) is not as customizable as other models, even on the mobile app
Apple Watch Series 3
The Apple of Your Eye
We’d be remiss if we didn’t include the Apple Watch in a round-up of running watches, especially since its capabilities range far beyond simple activity tracking and GPS location services. Not only can you actively track workouts, but you can respond to messages, take calls, swipe through apps, and participate in friendly “workout challenges”. In other words, you can set group goals among your friends for a little extra competition. You’ll want to be sure you have an Apple device to make the most of all this watch’s best features, but the iOS ecosystem is so common these days that it hardly seems like a breaking point for most buyers.
Pros:
- Apple ecosystem compatibility offers a wide array of functions like messaging and music playback
- Workout challenges are a great way to increase friendly competition and hold yourself accountable
- Wireless charging is easy and fast
Cons:
- Shorter battery life than other models
- Functionality is lost when not using other iOS devices
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve just started running, so what features do I really need?
First of all, congratulations on taking the leap into the wonderful world of running. If you’re still on the fence about buying a piece of wearable tech, you might consider downloading a mobile app like the Nike Training Club (NTC) or Strava that can track activity and route your runs while using an arm-band. If you find those features helpful, it’s probably worth checking out a compact watch with activity tracking, heart-monitoring, and playback capabilities, especially if you’re a music fan.
Can all running watches track indoor (treadmill) workouts?
Many newer watches can indeed track your indoor workouts. Some may require a specialized footpad since you’re not actively moving from point A to point B, so be sure to check whether the watch you’re interested in is compatible with your training habits. Folks living in colder climates may want to pay special attention to these features.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.