For runners, having a reliable and accurate sports watch is essential for tracking progress and improving performance. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. A good sports watch for runners should be lightweight, comfortable, and durable, with features that support a variety of training goals.
Some of the key features to consider include GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, customizable training plans, and smartphone compatibility. In this article, we will explore some of the best sports watches for runners on the market, highlighting their unique features and benefits to help you make an informed decision.
My Top 5 Best Sports Watches For Runners
1. Garmin Forerunner 945
The Garmin Forerunner 945 is a high-end sports watch that is specifically designed for runners. It offers advanced features that make it an excellent choice for serious athletes. The watch has GPS and GLONASS tracking, which provide accurate and reliable location data. It also has a heart rate monitor that allows runners to track their heart rate and monitor their fitness levels.
One of the standout features of the Garmin Forerunner 945 is its customizable training plans. Users can create their own workouts, or choose from preloaded plans for running, cycling, swimming, and more. The watch also offers real-time coaching and feedback during workouts to help users reach their goals.
Another notable feature of the Garmin Forerunner 945 is its long battery life. It can last up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode, and up to 36 hours in GPS mode. This makes it a great choice for long-distance runners who need a watch that can keep up with their training.
Feel like listening to music directly from your watch? Maybe check out my review about the Garmin Vivoactive 4 as well.
Prices usually start at $350.
2. Apple Watch Series 7
I mentioned this watch several times, like in my article about best smartwatches for fitness tracking, because I think it is really worth a consideration.The Apple Watch Series 7 is a popular smartwatch that offers advanced features for runners. With its GPS tracking and heart rate monitoring, the watch allows users to track their workouts and monitor their fitness levels. Additionally, it can store music for listening to while running, making it a great choice for music-loving athletes.
One of the standout features of the Apple Watch Series 7 is its water-resistant and scratch-resistant display. This makes it a durable choice for runners who want a watch that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. The watch is also compatible with a wide range of third-party apps, allowing users to customize their experience and tailor their workouts to their individual needs.
The Apple Watch Series 7 has a sleek and stylish design that looks great both on and off the track. It is available in a variety of colors and finishes, making it easy to find a style that matches your personal preferences. If applicable, you can also check out these Apple watch bands for large wrists.
Prices usually start at $290.
3. Polar Vantage V2
The Polar Vantage V2 is a sports watch that is designed for serious runners. It offers advanced features such as GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and personalized training plans. One of the standout features of the Polar Vantage V2 is its recovery tracking, which allows users to optimize their training and reduce the risk of injury by monitoring their recovery status. The watch also offers sleep tracking, which can help users understand how their sleep patterns affect their performance.
In terms of design, the Polar Vantage V2 has a sleek and lightweight construction that is comfortable to wear during workouts. It is also water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it a great choice for swimmers and other athletes who train in wet conditions.
The Polar Vantage V2 is compatible with the Polar Flow app, which allows users to analyze their workouts and track their progress over time. It also offers real-time coaching and feedback during workouts, helping users stay on track and meet their goals.
I consider this a great sports watch for triathletes.
Prices usually start at $475.
4. Suunto 9
Sure, here’s a unique summary of the Suunto 9:
The Suunto 9 is a high-performance sports watch designed for runners, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. It offers advanced GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and a variety of training features to help users optimize their workouts.
One of the standout features of the Suunto 9 is its long battery life. It can last up to 120 hours in GPS mode, making it a great choice for long-distance runners who need a watch that can keep up with their training. The watch also has a durable and rugged design that can withstand tough outdoor conditions.
In addition to its fitness features, the Suunto 9 offers a variety of other functions that make it a versatile smartwatch. It can receive smartphone notifications, control music playback, and has built-in compass and barometer sensors. The watch is also water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it a great choice for swimmers and other athletes who train in wet conditions.
The Suunto 9 is compatible with the Suunto app, which allows users to analyze their workouts and track their progress over time. It also offers personalized training plans and real-time coaching during workouts to help users reach their fitness goals.
Prices usually start at $300.
5. Coros Apex Pro
The Coros Apex Pro is a high-performance sports watch that offers advanced features for runners, triathletes, and other endurance athletes. It has a long battery life of up to 40 hours in GPS mode, making it a great choice for long-distance training and races.
One of the standout features of the Coros Apex Pro is its advanced navigation system. It has built-in GPS and GLONASS sensors, as well as a barometric altimeter and compass, allowing users to track their location and elevation with high accuracy. The watch also offers breadcrumb trail navigation, making it easy to find your way back if you get lost during a workout.
In addition to its navigation features, the Coros Apex Pro offers a variety of fitness functions, including heart rate monitoring, recovery tracking, and personalized training plans. The watch is also water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it a great choice for swimmers and other athletes who train in wet conditions.
The Coros Apex Pro is compatible with the Coros app, which allows users to analyze their workouts and track their progress over time. It also offers real-time coaching during workouts to help users reach their fitness goals.
Prices usually start at $500.
What Features Should I Look For In A Sports Watch For Running?
When choosing a sports watch for running, there are several features you should consider:
GPS tracking
This feature allows you to track your running route, distance, and pace accurately.
Heart rate monitoring
A heart rate monitor tracks your heart rate in real-time, providing valuable insights into your training intensity.
Water resistance
Look for a watch that is water-resistant or waterproof if you plan to run in wet conditions or swim. This generally is an important factor when it comes to sports watches for outdoor activities.
Battery life
Consider a watch with a long battery life if you are planning to use it for longer runs or endurance events.
Comfort and fit
Choose a watch that is comfortable to wear and fits securely on your wrist during workouts.
Personalized training plans and coaching
Some sports watches offer personalized training plans and coaching to help you reach your fitness goals.
Compatibility with smartphone apps
Look for a watch that can sync with smartphone apps to analyze your workout data and track your progress over time.
Durability
A sports watch for running should be durable and rugged enough to withstand tough outdoor conditions.
Can I Track My Running Distance And Pace With A Sports Watch?
Most sports watches designed for running come with GPS technology that enables you to track your running distance and pace accurately. GPS tracking is a feature that uses satellite signals to measure the distance you have covered and your running speed. With this feature, you can accurately track your running route, distance, pace, and other metrics like elevation gain, cadence, and stride length.
Some sports watches also come with additional sensors like accelerometers, which help to improve the accuracy of the distance and pace tracking, especially in areas with poor GPS coverage. This information is essential for runners to monitor their progress, set goals, and analyze their performance over time.
Are Sports Watches For Running Water-Resistant Or Waterproof?
From my knowledge, most sports watches designed for running are water-resistant or waterproof to some extent. The level of water resistance varies depending on the watch model and manufacturer.
Some sports watches are only splash-proof and cannot be worn while swimming or diving, while others can withstand depths of up to 50 or 100 meters. It’s essential to check the watch’s water-resistance rating before purchasing it to ensure that it can withstand your water-related activities. Water-resistant watches can protect against water damage caused by rain, sweat, and splashes, while waterproof watches can be worn while swimming and diving without getting damaged. However, it’s essential to note that even water-resistant or waterproof watches have limitations and should not be subjected to extreme water pressure or temperatures.
How Long Do The Batteries Last On Sports Watches For Running?
The battery life of sports watches for running varies depending on the watch model, features, and usage. Some watches can last for several days on a single charge, while others may only last for a few hours. The battery life of a sports watch can be affected by various factors, including the GPS usage, heart rate monitoring, display brightness, and other features like music playback and notifications.
Typically, sports watches with larger batteries and fewer features will last longer than watches with smaller batteries and more features. It’s essential to consider your usage and needs when choosing a sports watch for running and choose a watch with a battery life that can meet your requirements. Some watches also come with a battery-saving mode that can extend the battery life, allowing you to use the watch for longer periods.