Many of us choose to go on hiking adventures to escape the buzz of modern technology. However, one essential tool is becoming increasingly popular with hikers worldwide. A good hiking watch is indispensable and a must-have on your next hiking trip.
More than just a timekeeper, a hiking watch is your compass, GPS, weather predictor, and fitness tracker wrapped neatly around your wrist. The surge in their popularity is a testament to our growing love for outdoor adventures. Hiking watches provide value in enhancing our overall hiking experience.
Now, let’s dive in to understand why a hiking watch is considered one of the most essential tools for hiking and backpacking. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to consider when purchasing a watch for hiking, explain why these timepieces are necessary for hikers, and present my top 5 recommendations.
What Are the Top 5 Best Hiking Watches on the Market Today?
1. GARMIN FENIX 7 SAPPHIRE SOLAR
2. SUUNTO VERTICAL TITANIUM SOLAR
3. CASIO PRO TREK PRW3500-1
4. COROS VERTIX 2
5. APPLE WATCH ULTRA 2
Understanding Hiking Watches.
A hiking watch, also known as a GPS watch, can be defined as a wearable device that was specifically designed to support and enhance the outdoor experience, particularly for activities such as hiking and backpacking. Hiking watches are far more advanced than regular watches. These sophisticated timepieces contain features tailored to meet outdoor enthusiasts’ needs.
Key features of a typical hiking watch include GPS and navigation, rugged durability and water resistance, altitude and weather data, and an extended battery life. These features collectively make a hiking watch an essential tool for hikers and backpackers by enhancing safety, navigation, and the overall hiking experience.
GPS and Navigation.
The inclusion of GPS and navigation features in hiking watches is paramount for outdoor adventures. A smooth operating GPS system is what attracts most hikers to obtain a hiking or GPS watch. Accurate GPS tracking is critical, as it allows hikers to pinpoint their locations. This is especially useful when trekking through remote areas that do not contain landmarks or cellular service.
Furthermore, GPS and navigation features help you map out your journey, plan your routes in advance, and avoid dangerous terrain or bad weather conditions.
GPS watches can be a lifesaver in situations where one gets lost or disoriented. Equipped with a GPS watch, you can explore the outdoors confidently and safely.
Durability and Water Resistance.
The durability and water resistance of a hiking watch are critical features that determine its fitness for outdoor conditions. The ruggedness of a watch speaks to its ability to withstand harsh elements encountered during hikes, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, and physical shocks. A durable hiking watch is designed to resist wear and tear, ensuring it remains functional and reliable over time.
On the other hand, water resistance is essential for protecting the watch against moisture and water exposure to outdoor elements such as rainfall or crossing shallow water bodies such as rivers. The term water-resistant should not be confused with the term waterproof.
Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof.
It’s important to note that a water-resistant rating suggests that the watch can handle splashes, rain, and even brief immersion in water. However, using a water-resistant watch for prolonged underwater activities such as swimming or diving is not advisable.
A waterproof rating offers more protection and suitability for prolonged underwater use up to certain depths. However, it is important to consider that a waterproof rating could increase the watch’s price, so you may have to balance your water protection needs with your budget.
Altitude and Weather Data.
The integration of altitude and weather data in a hiking watch is a notable feature that enhances outdoor navigation and safety. The altitude tracking functionality is typically facilitated by a built-in barometer, which allows hikers and backpackers to monitor elevation levels during their adventure. This is especially useful when trekking through mountainous terrains. Elevation data can also consist of determining the difficulty of a climb and help hikers manage their pace and exertion levels accordingly.
The barometer can also track atmospheric pressure changes over time. This provides valuable insights into possible weather shifts. A sudden drop in atmospheric pressure could indicate an incoming storm, enabling hikers to take necessary precautions or adjust plans accordingly.
ABC – Altimeter Barometer Compass.
ABC stands for Altimeter, barometer, and compass. These are three advanced features that are typically found in the latest hiking watches. As suggested earlier, the altimeter provides elevation data, enabling hikers to understand and manage their climb’s difficulty.
The barometer measures atmospheric pressure, providing crucial insights into potential weather changes and promoting a safer hiking experience.
Lastly, the compass is an essential navigation tool that helps hikers maintain their bearings and reduces the risk of getting lost. The ABC features of a GPS watch for hiking enhance outdoor adventures by providing guidance and safety in all terrains and weather conditions.
Battery Life.
A long-lasting battery is essential to support extended hikes and multiple-day camping trips. Many high-end GPS watches are designed to deliver exceptional battery performance and endure strenuous outdoor conditions without frequent recharging. Some models even come with power-saving modes to extend battery life even further.
Additionally, solar-powered watches are becoming increasingly popular. Thanks to recent technological advancements, solar charging watches for hiking harness energy from the sun, making them an excellent sustainable choice for long-term treks. Using solar charging watches reduces dependency on traditional charging methods and contributes to environmental conservation.
Comfort and Fit.
Comfort and fit are integral aspects that should not be overlooked when choosing the best GPS watch for hiking. A well-fitted watch ensures that you can comfortably engage in rigorous outdoor activities for extended periods without feeling any discomfort. On the other hand, wearing a watch that does not fit you properly can result in skin issues due to prolonged friction.
To ensure maximum comfort over extended periods, hiking watches often incorporate features such as lightweight materials and breathable watch bands. The use of lightweight materials such as titanium or resin for watch casing reduces the overall weight, preventing strain on the wrist over extended periods. Additionally, bands made from materials such as nylon or ventilated silicone allow for increased airflow, reducing sweat build-up and potential skin irritation.
Furthermore, some GPS watch models include customizable watch faces and bands, enabling you to adjust the fit according to your own personal preference. The integration of these features makes GPS watches viable for long-term use, providing comfort without compromising functionality.
Why Hiking Watches are Essential.
Navigation and Mapping Capabilities.
One of the key reasons why hiking watches have become essential gear for outdoor enthusiasts is their powerful navigation and mapping capabilities. Equipped with built-in compasses, some premium GPS watches enable users to navigate uncharted territories effortlessly, ensuring they remain oriented even in remote locations with limited visibility or signage. These sophisticated timepieces utilize real-time data to provide an accurate GPS reading, allowing hikers to plot their course with confidence. This assistance in navigation and orientation makes a GPS watch for hiking a quality asset.
GPS Tracking and Route Planning.
The best GPS watches for hiking are sophisticated timepieces that utilize real-time data to provide accurate GPS readings, allowing hikers to plot their course with confidence. Additionally, many GPS watches feature advanced GPS technology for mapping trails, landmarks, and other waypoints, offering users a comprehensive overview of their surroundings and their progress throughout their journey.
Altimeters in GPS watches for hiking are crucial as they deliver real-time elevation data, helping hikers gauge how high they are above sea level – a vital piece of information necessary for tackling steep terrains. This feature can not be found in ordinary watches and further demonstrates why hiking watches are essential for planning your ascents and descents during outdoor exploits.
Safety Features.
Hiking watches often come equipped with a suite of safety features. One of the most prominent safety features that these watches can include are weather alerts that warn hikers of impending storms, giving them ample time to seek shelter or turn back. Some models also come with built-in thermometers to monitor ambient air temperature, essential data for hikes in extreme conditions.
The distress signal functionality is another critical safety feature. In case of emergencies, hikers can transmit their exact GPS coordinates to rescue teams. Added to these, another unique feature that higher-end GPS watches come included with are UV sensors to monitor sun exposure, helping hikers to avoid sunburn or heatstroke.
These safety features increase your chances of successfully navigating through rugged terrain and significantly contribute to your survival and well-being during unexpected circumstances. Don’t skip out on these features because they very well could save your life one day while hiking or backpacking.
Health and Fitness Tracking.
Almost every GPS watch on the market boasts health and fitness tracking features that contribute greatly to the well-being of the hiker. Regular health monitoring is essential during longer treks as it helps prevent unnecessary strain and overexertion.
Features such as heart rate monitors can alert you if your heart rate spikes abnormally high or low. This can allow you to pace yourself or take breaks when necessary. In addition, some models have sleep-tracking capabilities, ensuring that you get enough rest. This can be extremely useful for maintaining your energy levels throughout the expedition.
Step counters and calorie trackers are also commonly included as standard features for GPS watches. These features are great for helping you manage your nutritional intake and maintain a balanced diet while participating in outdoor activities.
Understanding these metrics while hiking and backpacking can help you optimize your performance, endurance, and overall health. Health and fitness tracking features should not be overlooked when searching for your next GPS watch.
Timekeeping and Time Synchronization.
Timekeeping and time synchronization are crucial yet often overlooked aspects of GPS watches. Accurate timekeeping is not just about keeping track of your day but becomes essential when coordinating with a hiking group or setting a pace for your hike.
A reliable timekeeping device is invaluable in situations where every second counts, such as reaching your campsite before sunset or timing your ascent to coincide with the best weather conditions.
Furthermore, time synchronization across different time zones is a key feature for hikers exploring regions far from their home turf. It ensures that you can maintain connections with your home base, align your routines to the day/night cycle, and even schedule emergency check-ins if needed. ‘
While these may seem like basic features, they can significantly enhance the safety, efficiency, and enjoyment of hiking expeditions.
User Interface and Display.
The user interface and display features of hiking watches can dramatically impact your ease of access and comprehension of the device’s functions. In an outdoor environment, the interface should be intuitive and straightforward, allowing you to navigate through various functionalities quickly, even in challenging and stressful situations.
Being able to read the display under different lighting conditions is a must. A hiking watch with a high-resolution display and adjustable brightness helps ensure that the data remains clearly visible no matter how much ambient light is present. Furthermore, a display that offers an anti-glare feature can be strongly beneficial in reducing eyestrain and improving readability under strong sunlight.
Recording and Analyzing Hiking Data.
Recording and analyzing hiking data is an essential feature of hiking watches as it can provide you with valuable insights about your performance and progress. This feature allows you to track various metrics such as distance covered, elevation gained, pace, calories burned, and heart rate.
Analyzing this data helps you track your physical progress, plan and adjust your hiking strategies, and set new personal goals. Additionally, it can be a critical tool for safety, allowing you to monitor your health parameters and respond to any potential physical stressors.
Ultimately, the ability to record and analyze data transforms a hiking watch from a simple time-tracking device to a powerful hiking companion, enhancing safety, enjoyment, and achievement of outdoor adventures.
Top 5 Best Hiking Watches:
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1. GARMIN FENIX 7 SAPPHIRE SOLAR EDITION
If you are in the market for a hiking smartwatch with superior GPS technology, the Garmin Fenix 7 Sapphire solar-charging edition is the standout choice. This GPS watch is popular among hikers due to its robust features, durability, and advanced tech offerings.
The Garmin Fenix 7 Sapphire offers comprehensive tracking capabilities, capturing metrics such as distance, pace, elevation, heart rate, and even advanced measurements such as VO2 max and recovery time. Its superior GPS and GLONASS navigation display topographic maps, making this timepiece a reliable guide for trekking through the most remote and complex terrains.
Get ready to take on any athletic or outdoor challenge with the rugged Garmin Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar GPS watch. Boasting a scratch-resistant solar charging lens, this Garmin watch uses the sun’s energy to extend battery life. Enjoy advanced training features, sports apps, health and wellness monitoring sensors, and more with up to 22 days of battery life.
These exceptional features, coupled with Garmin’s reputation for accuracy and quality, make this Garmin watch an essential tool for serious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Key Features of the GARMIN FENIX 7 SAPPHIRE SOLAR EDITION:
Solar-Charged Battery – Up to 18 days of battery life in smartwatch mode with an additional 4 days when solar charging. Up to 57 hours of battery life in GPS mode with an additional 15 hours when solar charging.
Built-in Sports Apps – Use preloaded activity profiles for trail running, swimming, running, biking, hiking, and other outdoor activities that you enjoy.
HIIT Workouts – Keep track of your high-intensity interval training workouts. This feature allows you to set the number of rounds, repetitions, rest intervals, and more.
Daily Suggested Workout – Get suggested daily workout routines that match your performance and recovery patterns from previous workouts that you have accomplished.
Pulse Ox -Wrist-based heart rate monitoring system that helps you understand how to adjust your pace over varying terrain while maintaining peak performance.
Real-Time Stamina – Use this data to track and manage your exertion levels throughout your outdoor activity.
HRV Status – Gain a deeper understanding of your overall health through this sleep-tracking system.
PacePro – Personalized running coach application that knows the terrain.
TopoActive Maps – Preloaded maps that make navigating unfamiliar terrain a breeze.
Music Subscriptions – Enjoy listening to music through Garmin’s premium music subscription services on the go without having to take your phone with you (Found on the Garmin Connect app).
Built-in Wi-Fi – Keeps all of your go-to apps updated to ensure you can access everything this GPS watch offers.
2. SUUNTO VERTICAL TITANIUM SOLAR
The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar is another top-tier GPS watch that has earned its place on the “best of” lists due to its impressive array of features and its focus on elevation tracking. This watch is particularly suited for mountain climbers and hikers. This smartwatch offers advanced altitude profiling and real-time data on hill incline percentages, making it an exceptional choice for those wanting to precisely track their vertical gain.
The Vertical Titanium GPS watch offers a range of features with the added benefit of extended battery life for longevity and reliability. This watch is solar-powered, ensuring a prolonged battery life during long expeditions. Additionally, it offers robust GPS features and weather trend forecasts, providing crucial information that can help hikers plan and adjust their journeys according to the conditions. By downloading the Suunto app, you can maximize the use of smart features that this GPS watch has to offer.
Not only does the titanium bezel of this timepiece enhance the aesthetic appeal, but it also adds to the durability of the watch, allowing it to withstand harsh outdoor environments. The Suunto Vertical Titanium truly stands out for its unique blend of functionality, durability, and specialized features, making it one of the best hiking watches available today.
Key Features of the SUUNTO VERTICAL TITANIUM SOLAR:
Large Touch Screen – 49mm color display that is highly visible and easy to read in any light condition.
Superior Navigation – Equipped with free global maps that show paths, contour lines, water, and landmarks. Also provides navigation features such as breadcrumb trails. It can also be used in offline mode.
Extreme Battery Life – Up to 500 hours of continuous exercise tracking in tour mode and up to 60 hours in the most accurate GPS mode. 30% increase in overall battery life by solar charging on sunny days.
Next Level Accuracy – Communicates with all five major satellite systems via its Dualband GPS signal. This provides for reliable accuracy in the most difficult conditions and extreme elevations.
Weather Tracking – Weather forecasts, compass and barometer-based altitude readings, and storm alarms help you stay aware of your surroundings.
Map Your Route – Use the Suunto App to plan your route and mark points of interest ahead of time. Following maps and navigating trails is a breeze thanks to the easy-to-use touchscreen watch face.
Sports and Training – Featuring over 90 sport modes, plan and track your training load, progress, recovery, and sleep tracking data. From running to cycling and swimming to cross-country skiing, you can be sure to find the sport mode that best fits you.
Made in Finland – Fully carbon compensated and made with 100% renewable energy.
3. CASIO PRO TREK PRW3500-1
The Casio Pro Trek PRW3500-1 is another heavy-hitter in the GPS watch lineup, noted for both its extensive features and high durability. Coming in at the lowest price point on this list, this watch features all of the reliable qualities you would find in higher-end GPS watches without breaking the bank.
Equipped with Casio’s Triple Sensor Version 3 technology, this watch provides accurate readings for altitude, barometric pressure, temperature, and direction. The Pro Trek’s solar power system ensures a reliable power supply, eliminating the worry of battery drain during critical moments. Additionally, this watch is water resistant up to 200 meters, making it suitable for water-based activities such as swimming, kayaking, and surfing.
One of the standout features of the Pro Trek 3500-1 is its Full Auto LED display, which enhances visibility and enables the user to access the watch’s features in wet environments and during nighttime operations. This watch also contains a stainless steel rotary bezel that can be positioned to help you keep track of your bearings.
With its robust design, outdoor-focused features, and reliable performance, the Casio Pro Trek PRW3500-1 is undeniably one of the best hiking watches currently available on the market. I would highly recommend this watch if you are just beginning and looking for a reliable hiking watch to enjoy without overspending.
Key Features of the CASIO PRO TREK PRW3500-1:
Multi-band GPS – Allows the reception of six time calibration signals from different regions around the world: Japan, United States, Germany, England, and China.
Triple Sensor System – Includes an altimeter, barometer, and compass, allowing for precise environmental readings and navigation.
Low Temperature Resistant – Fully functional down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit.
Full Auto LES Display – Illuminates the screen during low light conditions, providing for full display during wet conditions or nighttime operations.
Barometric Pressure Tendency Alarm – Alerts the hiker to sudden changes in pressure readings, which can indicate upcoming weather events.
4. COROS VERTIX 2
The Coros Vertix 2 is a game-changer in the hiking watch industry, boasting a suite of features that make it a top choice for any outdoor enthusiast. This watch features an impressive battery life, running for up to 140 hours while using GPS mode, a notable edge for hikers embarking on extended journeys. This GPS watch also provides accurate altitude and barometric pressure readings through its advanced sensor technology.
One distinguishing feature of the Coros Vertix 2 is its Dual Frequency GNSS, which offers an accurate GPS system and superior tracking performance by simultaneously receiving data from two major satellite systems. This GPS watch is a great navigation tool and an invaluable companion for monitoring your health and performance while on the trail. With an impressive Oxygen Level tracker and a host of other fitness-tracking metrics, this watch features an array of quality metrics that will keep you up-to-date on your performance throughout your journey.
The Coros Vertix 2 is extremely durable. The watch’s rugged design, complemented by its scratch-resistant sapphire glass and titanium bezel, ensures durability even in the toughest outdoor conditions. A combination of superior battery life, precise tracking, robust durability, and innovative health metrics position the Vertix 2 as one of the best GPS watches on the market.
Key Features of the COROS VERTIX 2:
GPS Plotting for All Terrain Features – Can talk to all five major satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, and Beidou) at the same time.
Dual Frequency Satellite Communication – Faster, better signal than other GPS watches on the market. This technology was previously only available in aviation products!
Improved GPS Plotting – Effortlessly track your course while navigating through tall buildings, deep within the forest, or alongside rock walls.
The Big Screen – Stay updated with key metrics anytime and anywhere, all within a quick glance of the 1.4-inch screen with a 16% higher resolution than previous Vertix models.
Phenomenal Battery Life – Claims to have the longest battery life you’ve ever seen in a GPS watch. Offers 127 hours of standard full GPS tracking and an impressive 43 days of battery life while functioning in standard mode.
Global Offline Mapping – Comes with a full global Landscape map out of the box. Also includes Topo and Hybrid maps that can be downloaded for free at COROS.com.
Measure Heart Rate Variability (HRV) – Measure your heart rate from your wrist. Ideal for measuring your body’s response to stress and its ability to recover.
Hold More Data – 32 GB of onboard storage. Store more workouts, more routes, and even music! Download and control audio files straight from your GPS watch.
Insta360 Camera Control – Place your camera out of arm’s reach to get the best shots. Control your camera from this GPS watch!
5. APPLE WATCH ULTRA 2
Although this may not classify as a hiking watch in a traditional sense, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 redefines the concept of a hiking watch with its blend of cutting-edge technology and practical outdoor features. This GPS smartwatch is equipped with a high-resolution retina display, ensuring clear visibility under various lighting conditions. This version of the Apple watch also contains features that are vital for hikers, such as its built-in GPS and compass. These functionalities provide precise location tracking, while the altimeter delivers real-time elevation data.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 also stands out for its wide range of health features, including an ECG app, blood oxygen level detection, and workout metrics. Additionally, this GPS watch is incredibly durable and can adapt to a variety of outdoor conditions thanks to its water and dust-resistant components. With cellular capability, you can ensure staying online even in remote locations.
In the past, Apple products may have been perceived as too fragile to be used in outdoor environments. However, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 falls nothing short of being capable enough to endure the elements of rigorous outdoor activities such as hiking, backpacking, trail running, and swimming. Apple’s reputation for quality and reliability makes the Apple Watch Ultra 2 a dependable ally for all of your next outdoor adventures.
Key Features of the APPLE WATCH ULTRA 2:
Rugged and Capable – Lightweight, 49 mm titanium case that is rugged and corrosion resistant.
Brightest Apple Watch Display Ever – Always on display that is readable in harsh sunlight conditions as well as low-light situations.
Large Display – Customize your view to suit almost any activity. This new and improved watch face shows dynamic info like altitude, depth, or seconds along the outermost edges.
Customizable Action Button – Gives you quick, physical control over a variety of functions, such as starting a workout, marking a compass waypoint, or even timing a lap.
Depth Guage – Provides real-time water data, including depth measurements and temperature readings down to 40 meters.
Optimal Battery Life – 36 hours of normal use, 72 hours of normal use with low power mode enabled, and 17 hours of workout use in low power mode.
Custom Workouts – Track the time and distance goals of each workout. Add warmups, cooldowns, and recovery intervals.
Advanced Running Metrics and Track Detection – Keep track of running goals and metrics. This watch can detect when you arrive at a track using Apple Maps and GPS to provide the most accurate tracking for running pace and distance covered.
Essential Exploration Tool – Designed to take on a wide range of environments, elevations (-500m to 9000m), and temperatures (-8 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit). Additions to the Compass app provide clear cardinal directions, elevation levels, and incline steepness, ensuring you never get lost.
Advanced Topographic Maps – Never get lost using topographic maps that show physical features in over 1000 national and regional parks across the U.S. These maps also include detailed trail information such as trail length, photos, and more.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hiking Watch.
Personal Hiking Preferences and Locations.
When choosing a hiking watch, it’s crucial to consider the locations you’ll be hiking in as they significantly influence the required functionality and features. For instance, a hiker who frequently explores mountainous terrains might prioritize a watch with advanced altimeter and barometer functions for elevation and weather tracking. In contrast, someone who is exploring remote areas may need a watch with longer battery life and GPS mode capabilities.
The complexity of the watch interface should also align with the user’s comfort and experience level. A user-friendly watch may suit an ordinary hiker, whereas a more complex watch with extensive features could be more suitable for tech-savvy adventurers. Matching the watch’s characteristics with your individual needs is crucial to finding the perfect hiking companion for your wrist.
Budget Considerations.
While high-end watches for hiking may offer advanced features like GPS navigation, solar charging, or wireless connectivity, not every hiker needs these premium functions. For novice or casual hikers, a durable and water-resistant hiking watch with a reliable compass that is affordable will suffice.
Compatibility with your Smartphone and Other Devices.
Selecting a hiking watch with reliable smart watch features can ensure a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable hiking experience. Syncing your watch with your smartphone can enhance your hiking experience by enabling the transfer of data like routes, waypoints, and fitness stats. Additionally, this compatibility allows for real-time updates, weather alerts, and notifications to keep you connected while on the trail.
Battery Life vs. Features.
A hiking watch packed with features can quickly deplete battery life and leave you without this critical tool during long excursions. It is important to consider your trip’s specific needs and duration.
How long do you plan on hiking?
If you plan on doing a day hike, having a GPS watch with premium features may be the way to go. This way, you can have a great experience without worrying about the battery life. However, if you are planning to go on a multi-day hike, you may want to prioritize a longer battery life, even if it means sacrificing premium features and solely relying on timekeeping and navigation.
My Final Thoughts on The 5 Best Hiking Watches.
To recap, here are the top 5 best hiking watches that I recommend for 2024 if you are looking to hit the trails with confidence and take your hiking experience to the next level.
1. GARMIN FENIX 7 SAPPHIRE SOLAR EDITION
2. SUUNTO VERTICAL TITANIUM SOLAR
3. CASIO PRO TREK PRW3500-1
4. COROS VERTIX 2
5. APPLE WATCH ULTRA 2
Ultimately, the best hiking watch is one that feels like the perfect companion on your hiking journey. Remember, these watches for hiking can serve as a vital tool for safety and navigation, but they should also reflect your individual style. Whether you’re scaling peaks, trail running, wading streams, or setting up camp under the stars, your hiking watch should embrace the role of supporting your outdoor lifestyle.