Best Hiking Watches in 2024
In the world of outdoor adventures, the importance of a reliable hiking watch cannot be overstated. These specialized timepieces have evolved significantly over the years, transforming from basic navigational aids into multifunctional gadgets equipped with GPS functionality, advanced health metrics, and durability suitable for rugged conditions. Today, hiking watches are essential for anyone serious about exploring the great outdoors, from casual trekkers to avid backpackers.
The evolution of hiking watches has been remarkable. Initially, they only featured basic navigation tools like altimeters, barometers, and compasses. Modern versions now include sophisticated GPS tracking, solar charging, and robust construction materials like titanium and sapphire crystal.
In 2024, selecting the best hiking watch involves several crucial criteria: comprehensive GPS functionality, extended battery life, rugged durability, and advanced features such as health tracking and solar charging. This article will guide you through the top options, helping you find the perfect companion for your outdoor adventures.
Best watches for hiking: Quick menu
• Why Use a Hiking Watch?
• Key Features to Look For
1. Garmin Fenix 7 Pro
2. Suunto 9 Peak Pro
3. Coros Vertix 2
4. Garmin Instinct 2
5. Apple Watch Ultra 2
6. Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar
7. Garmin Enduro 2
8. Casio Pro Trek PRW-6000Y
9. G-Shock Mudmaster GWG-2000
10. Coros Apex Pro 2
• Comparing Popular Brands
• How to Choose the Right Hiking Watch for You
• FAQs
• Conclusion
Why Use a Hiking Watch?
Hiking watches offer a suite of features that can make your adventure safer and more enjoyable. Here’s a closer look at the key benefits:
1. Navigation 📍 Modern hiking watches are equipped with advanced GPS functionality, ensuring you never lose your way, whether on a well-marked trail or deep in the wilderness. These devices provide accurate coordinates, track your route, and even offer topographic maps.
2. Health Metrics 🩺 Many hiking watches come with comprehensive health monitoring features, such as heart rate tracking, sleep analysis, and even oxygen saturation levels. These metrics help you stay in tune with your body’s needs during strenuous activities.
3. ABC Features (Altimeter, Barometer, Compass) 🧭 The inclusion of Altimeter, Barometer, and Compass (ABC) functionality can’t be overlooked. These tools measure elevation, atmospheric pressure, and direction, proving invaluable in navigation and weather prediction.
4. Durability and Usability in Rugged Conditions 🛡️ Built to endure the harshest environments, hiking watches often feature robust materials like titanium and sapphire crystal. They are water-resistant, shockproof, and designed to function reliably in extreme temperatures.
Are GPS Watches Worth It? 🤔
Absolutely! GPS watches bring unparalleled navigation and safety features. They offer real-time location tracking, making them indispensable for serious hikers and mountain climbers. Plus, with long battery life and solar charging options, they keep you connected even during extended trips.
Do I Need a Watch for Hiking? 🕒
Investing in a high-quality hiking watch is highly recommended. While smartphones and traditional maps are useful, they can falter in rugged conditions. Hiking watches provide reliability and a compact, wrist-worn solution for navigation, health monitoring, and weather prediction, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable hiking experience.
Summary Table
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Navigation | GPS functionality, route tracking, and topographic maps |
| Health Metrics | Heart rate, sleep analysis, oxygen saturation |
| ABC (Altimeter, Barometer, Compass) | Elevation measurement, weather prediction, directional guidance |
| Durability & Usability | Robust materials, water-resistant, shockproof, extreme conditions |
Equipped with these features, a reliable hiking watch is your ultimate companion in the great outdoors.
Key Features to Look For
GPS Functionality 📍
A hiking watch's advanced GPS functionality is crucial for accurate navigation and route tracking, ensuring you stay on course even in the most remote and challenging terrains.
Battery Life 🔋
One of the most critical aspects of a hiking watch is its battery life. Here's an overview:
- Smartwatch Mode: Typically lasts weeks, perfect for daily wear.
- GPS Mode: Provides several hours to days of continuous use, essential for long hikes. Many models also offer solar charging, extending battery life for extended outdoor expeditions.
Durability 🛡️
Durability is key for hiking watches, with many models featuring robust materials:
- Titanium: Lightweight yet exceptionally strong, ideal for rugged conditions.
- Sapphire Crystal: Highly scratch-resistant, ensuring the watch face remains clear and unscathed.
Advanced Features 📊
Modern hiking watches come packed with advanced features designed for optimal performance:
- Health Metrics: Track heart rate, sleep patterns, and oxygen levels to monitor fitness and well-being.
- Solar Charging: Prolongs battery life, making it highly convenient for long treks.
Technical Specs 🔢
Important technical specifications to look for include:
- Display Size: Larger displays offer better readability in various lighting conditions.
- Weight: Lightweight designs enhance comfort during prolonged wear.
Summary Table
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| GPS Functionality 📍 | Accurate navigation and route tracking |
| Battery Life 🔋 | Weeks in smartwatch mode, hours/days in GPS mode |
| Durability 🛡️ | Titanium and Sapphire Crystal for robustness |
| Health Metrics 📊 | Heart rate, sleep, oxygen monitoring |
| Solar Charging ☀️ | Extended battery life |
| Display Size 🔢 | Improved readability |
| Weight ⚖️ | Enhanced comfort |
These features make a hiking watch not just a tool, but a reliable companion on all your outdoor adventures.
Best Hiking Watches of 2024
QUICK LIST OF PRODUCTS
BEST FOR SERIOUS HIKERS AND MOUNTAINEERS
BEST FOR BUDGET-CONSCIOUS HIKERS
★★★★
Affordable yet robust with multiple GNSS support and superior durability, ideal for budget-conscious hikers looking for reliable performance without breaking the bank
BEST FOR ULTRA-ENDURANCE ATHLETES
★★★★☆
Offers endless battery life in smartwatch mode, advanced health, and fitness tracking with solar charging, perfect for ultra-endurance athletes needing a reliable and long-lasting companion.
BEST FOR ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKERS AND LONG-DISTANCE HIKERS
★★★★☆
Offers extreme battery life and comprehensive health metrics with an intuitive interface, making it ideal for ultralight backpackers and long-distance hikers prioritizing endurance and reliability.
BEST FOR TECH-SAVVY HIKERS AND IPHONE USERS
![Apple Watch Ultra 2 [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Smartwatch with Rugged Titanium Case & Blue Alpine Loop Medium. Fitness Tracker, Precision GPS, Action Button, Extra-Long Battery Life, Carbon Neutral](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/814xH1gpidL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
BEST FOR CASUAL HIKERS AND OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS
BEST FOR MULTI-DAY HIKES AND MOUNTAINEERING
★★★★☆
High-end navigation, excellent battery life, and compact lightweight design, catering to multi-day hikers and mountaineers requiring precise and continuous performance.
BEST FOR SERIOUS HIKERS AND MOUNTAINEERS
Display Size: 1.3” (33.02 mm) diameter
Display Resolution: 260 x 260 pixels
Weight: 73 grams (case only: 50 grams)
Physical Size: 47 x 47 x 14.5 mm
Battery Life: Smartwatch Mode: Up to 18 days / 22 days with solar
GPS Mode: Up to 57 hours / 73 hours with solar
1. Garmin fēnix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar ★★★★★
| PROS | +Phenomenal Battery Life +Solar Charging Capability +Advanced Navigation Tools |
| CONS | -Overkill for Casual Users |
| SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (010-02777-00) |
| View At Amazon (010-02776-14) | |
| View At Amazon (010-02778-14) |
Short review
The Garmin fēnix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar is a top-tier multisport GPS smartwatch that stands out as an exceptional hiking companion in 2024. Key features include advanced GPS and mapping capabilities, providing precise navigation and topographic data for your adventures. Its long battery life is bolstered by solar charging, ensuring the watch remains powered even on extended trips with up to 22 days in smartwatch mode.
The premium build quality boasts a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal display and robust titanium housing, making it both durable and rugged. This watch is best for serious hikers and mountaineers who demand reliability and functionality from their gear. Additionally, the built-in flashlight with variable light intensities and red safety light adds further value for night-time activities. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the fēnix 7 Pro is designed to withstand harsh conditions, making it a highly recommended choice for your wilderness excursions.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You Require Detailed Hiking Data- Features like hill score, grade-adjusted pace, and visual race predictor provide valuable insights and data to enhance your hiking experience.
✅ You Use Interactive Maps for Outdoors - The ability to download Outdoor Maps+ for premium mapping content such as satellite imagery and topographic maps ensures you always know your surroundings.
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ Minimalist Design is More Your Style - If you prefer a simpler, less feature-packed watch, the multitude of functionalities might feel overwhelming.
BEST FOR ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKERS AND LONG-DISTANCE HIKERS
Weight: 64 g / 2.26 oz
Bezel Material: Stainless steel
Glass Material: Sapphire crystal
Case Material: Glass fibre reinforced polyamide
Strap Material: Silicone (with options for different sizes and accessory straps)
Water Resistance: 100 meters
2. Suunto 9 Peak Pro ★★★★☆
| PROS | +Military-Grade Durability +High-Precision GPS and Navigation +Elegant and Slim Design |
| CONS | -High Price Tag |
| SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (Forest Green) |
| View At Amazon (Ocean Blue) | |
| View At Amazon (Pearl Gold) |
Short review
The Suunto 9 Peak Pro watch is an exceptional choice for hiking enthusiasts in 2024, known for its extreme battery life, comprehensive health metrics, and intuitive interface. Designed to cater to ultralight backpackers and long-distance hikers, this GPS watch offers up to 40 hours in the best GPS mode and 21 days in daily use, ensuring you remain connected during extended outdoor adventures.
Its health monitoring features, including heart rate variability (HRV), sleep tracking, and stress management, provide critical insights to help you maintain peak performance. The intuitive and fast user interface, complemented by a sleek design, makes it easy to navigate through 95+ sport modes, including hiking. Built with durability in mind, it meets U.S. military standards and features materials like sapphire crystal and titanium. Combining style, functionality, and resilience, the Suunto 9 Peak Pro is perfect for performance-driven athletes and adventurers braving the wilderness.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You Value Style and Elegance in Tough Gear - Despite its rugged build, the Suunto 9 Peak Pro maintains a sleek and elegant design, making it suitable for everyday wear and not just outdoor excursions
✅ You Appreciate Customization and Connectivity - The compatibility with the Suunto app and the SuuntoPlus™ Store allows for extensive customization and connectivity with over 200 partner apps, enhancing your exercise and adventure experience.
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You Have Small Wrists - Even though it’s slim, the 43 mm case size might feel bulky on smaller wrists, potentially causing discomfort during extended periods of wear.
BEST FOR ADVENTURE SEEKERS AND TRAIL RUNNERS
Display Size: 1.4 inch
Display Resolution: 280 x 280 pixels with 64 colors
Display Type: Touch Screen Always-On Memory LCD
Battery Life:
Up to 127 hours in full GPS mode
Up to 60 days in regular use
Navigation Systems: Supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, QZSS
3. Coros Vertix 2 ★★★★☆
| PROS | +Advanced GPS Accuracy +Robust and Durable +On-Wrist Navigation with Offline Maps |
| CONS | -Bulky Design |
| SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (Pace 3) |
| View At Amazon (Apex 2) | |
| View At Amazon (Apex 2 Pro) |
Short review
The Coros Vertix 2 Adventure GPS Watch is designed for adventure seekers and trail runners, making it one of the best hiking watches in 2024. Prominent for its top-tier GPS tracking, this watch supports multiple satellite systems, including dual-frequency GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, and Beidou, ensuring precise navigation even in challenging terrains. The rugged and durable design features a grade 5 titanium alloy bezel and a sapphire glass screen, built to withstand extreme outdoor conditions.
With an ultra-long battery life of up to 43 days in regular use and 127 hours in full GPS mode, it's perfect for extended hiking trips without frequent charging needs. The watch also offers on-wrist navigation with offline maps, adding to its comprehensive navigation capabilities. Additional functions like the heart rate monitor, sleep tracking, and over 30 activity modes including running, biking, skiing, and climbing make the Coros Vertix 2 a versatile choice for adventurous and performance-driven athletes.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You want on-wrist navigation with offline maps- The Coros Vertix 2 provides free global offline maps, so you can navigate directly from your wrist without relying on a phone or internet connection.
✅ You participate in a variety of outdoor activities - The watch offers over 30 activity modes, including running, biking, skiing, and climbing, along with performance insights like Recovery Timer and Training Status.
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You frequently engage in deep-water activities - Although it has a water resistance of 10 ATM, it is suitable for surface water activities and not designed for diving or other deep-water endeavors
BEST FOR BUDGET-CONSCIOUS HIKERS
Display Size: Custom, two-window design; 0.9” x 0.9” (23 x 23 mm)
Display Resolution: 176 x 176 pixels
Strap Material: Silicone
Lens Material: Chemically strengthened glass
Case Material: Fiber-reinforced polymer
Connectivity: Bluetooth®, ANT+®
4. Garmin Instinct 2 ★★★★
| PROS | +Health Monitoring +Smart Features +User-Friendly Design |
| CONS | -Limited Music Functions |
| SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (010-02627-13) |
| View At Amazon (010-02627-10) | |
| View At Amazon (010-02626-12) |
Short review
The Garmin Instinct 2 is a standout in the "Best Hiking Watches in 2024" list, combining affordability with robust functionality, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious hikers. This rugged outdoor watch is engineered to endure harsh conditions, featuring a fiber-reinforced polymer case and a chemically strengthened scratch-resistant lens. Multiple GNSS support, including GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, ensures accurate navigation even in challenging environments.
The Instinct 2 also boasts TracBack routing for efficient return journeys and ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer, compass) for comprehensive trail data. Its impressive 28-day battery life in smartwatch mode means fewer recharges during extended outdoor adventures. Furthermore, the watch offers essential health monitoring features such as wrist-based heart rate, stress tracking, and advanced sleep monitoring. With its superior durability and comprehensive GPS functionality, the Garmin Instinct 2 is the ultimate budget-friendly companion for all hiking and backpacking enthusiasts.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You Want Comprehensive Health Tracking - It provides 24/7 health monitoring, including wrist-based heart rate tracking, stress levels, sleep score, and Pulse Ox for oxygen saturation.
✅ You Prefer a Non-Touchscreen Interface -The button-based interface can be easier to navigate in wet or dirty conditions compared to touchscreens.
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You Prefer a High-Resolution Display - The monochrome, sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display may not be as vibrant or sharp as AMOLED screens found in other smartwatches.
BEST FOR TECH-SAVVY HIKERS AND IPHONE USERS
Case Size: 49mm titanium case
Water Resistance: Up to 100 meters
Display: Always-On Retina display, up to 3000 nits brightness
Processing Unit: S9 SiP (System in Package)
Battery Life: Up to 36 hours of normal use, up to 72 hours with low power settings
GPS: Precision dual-frequency GPS
5. Apple Watch Ultra 2 ★★★★☆
| PROS | +Robust Build and Materials +Comprehensive Fitness Tracking +Bright Display |
| CONS | -High Price Point |
| SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (White Ocean Band) |
| View At Amazon (Olive Alpine Loop) | |
| View At Amazon (Indigo Alpine Loop) |
Short review
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 smartwatch is a perfect choice in the 2024 hiking watch lineup. Built with a rugged titanium case and blue Alpine Loop, it is designed for tech-savvy hikers and iPhone users. This adventure-ready watch features a high-accuracy precision dual-frequency GPS, ensuring accurate location tracking even in dense environments, making it indispensable for navigation on long hikes.
Advanced health tracking capabilities, including ECG, heart rate monitoring, and sleep tracking, offer comprehensive fitness insights tailored for outdoor enthusiasts. Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem means you can enjoy all the benefits of Apple Maps, Siri, and other apps right on your wrist, enhancing your hiking experience. Coupled with an extra-long battery life of up to 36 hours (or 72 hours in low power mode), and carbon-neutral case and band options, this smartwatch is both a powerful and sustainable companion for all your backpacking and outdoor adventures.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ Safety Features are Important -Incorporating an 86-decibel siren, Emergency SOS, and Fall Detection, it provides essential safety functions that are invaluable during outdoor adventures
✅Bright and Readable Display -The 3000 nits Retina display ensures that the screen is visible even in harsh sunlight, a big advantage when hiking in bright conditions.
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ Comfort is Key for Smaller Wrists - The 49mm case can feel bulky, especially on smaller wrists, which might lead to discomfort during longer hikes.
BEST FOR REMOTE EXPEDITIONS AND EXTREME CLIMATES
Display Size: 1.4 inches
Battery Life: Up to 60 days in daily mode; up to 60 hours in the most accurate GPS tracking mode; and up to one year with solar charging (Titanium model).
Water Resistance: 100 meters
Satellite Systems: GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS, BEIDOU
6. Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar ★★★★★
| PROS | +Comprehensive Sensor Suite +Advanced GPS Accuracy +Military Tested Durability |
| CONS | -Limited Smartwatch Features |
| SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (Black Lime) |
| View At Amazon (Black Ruby) | |
| View At Amazon (Black Sand) |
Short review
The Suunto Vertical stands out as an ideal GPS watch for dedicated hikers and adventurers. Featuring a large 1.4-inch color display, it is ruggedly built with stainless steel and sapphire crystal to endure extreme conditions. It boasts an impressive battery life of up to 60 days in daily mode and can extend up to one year with solar charging, making it perfect for extended remote expeditions.
Its comprehensive GPS functionalities, enhanced by dual-band GPS/GNSS, ensure precise navigation even in challenging terrains. With 32GB of offline map storage, you can reliably access detailed topographic data and navigation features without requiring connectivity. Tested for military-grade durability, the watch includes essential sensors like an altimeter, barometer, and compass for precise environmental tracking. Suitable for extreme climates and demanding hikes, the Suunto Vertical offers advanced features and reliable performance, making it one of the best hiking watches in 2024.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You Require Reliable Offline Navigation - With 32GB of offline map storage and dual-band GPS/GNSS accuracy, you can navigate confidently even without cell service.
✅You're Looking for Comprehensive Environmental Data -Equipped with an altimeter, barometer, compass, and detailed weather forecasts, including storm alarms, this watch is perfect for those who need precise environmental tracking.
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You Need Extensive Smartwatch Features - If you rely on smartwatch functionalities like mobile payments and a wide range of third-party apps, this might not be the best choice.
BEST FOR ULTRA-ENDURANCE ATHLETES
Display Size: 1.3" (33.0 mm) diameter
Display Resolution: 416 x 416 pixels
Color Display: Yes (AMOLED)
Strap Material: Silicone
Lens Material: Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3
Bezel Material: Stainless Steel
7. Garmin Enduro 2 ★★★★☆
| PROS | +Exceptional Battery Life +Solar Charging +Comprehensive Sports Apps |
| CONS | -Bulkiness |
| SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (010-02408-00) |
| View At Amazon (010-02777-10) | |
| View At Amazon (010-02754-00) |
Short review
The Garmin Enduro 2 is the ultimate choice for ultra-endurance athletes and serious hikers, offering unparalleled performance and durability. With an almost endless battery life of up to 46 days in smartwatch mode and up to 150 hours in GPS mode with solar charging, it sets the benchmark for long-lasting power. Its advanced health and fitness tracking capabilities include wrist-based heart rate monitoring, a Pulse Ox sensor, and sleep tracking to keep tabs on your well-being during grueling hikes.
The solar charging capability via the Power Sapphire lens ensures you remain powered up even on extended outdoor adventures. It's designed to be robust and lightweight, making it ideal for harsh outdoor conditions. This watch includes advanced GPS tracking and navigation tools such as preloaded TopoActive maps, ensuring you never lose your way. The Garmin Enduro 2 is the perfect companion for ultra-endurance athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who demand the best in performance and reliability.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You’re an Outdoor Enthusiast - With advanced navigation tools like preloaded TopoActive maps and the NextFork™ map guide, along with a variety of built-in sports apps, it's designed for serious trekkers and adventurers.
✅ Solar Charging Matters to You -The Power Sapphire lens harnesses solar energy to extend battery life, making it highly suitable for extended daylight activities.
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ Touchscreens Aren’t Practical for You - Although the touchscreen interface is convenient, it may not be practical in wet conditions or if you often wear gloves while hiking.
BEST FOR CASUAL HIKERS AND OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS
Display Type: Analog-Digital
Case Material: Resin
Band Material: Resin
Band Color: Black
Dial Color: Black
Water Resistance: 100 meters / 330 feet
Movement: Quartz
Crystal Type: Scratch Resistant Mineral
8. Casio Pro Trek PRW6000Y-1A ★★★★
| PROS | +Comprehensive Sensor Suite +Tough Solar Power +Multi-Band Atomic Timekeeping |
| CONS | -Size and Bulk |
| SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (PAG240) |
| View At Amazon (PRW2500T-7) | |
| View At Amazon (PRG270D-7CR) |
Short review
The Casio Protrek PRW6000Y-1A Atomic Solar Wristwatch stands out among the best hiking watches in 2024, thanks to its robust construction and high-end features designed for outdoor enthusiasts. Key features include Triple Sensor (ABC) technology, which offers an altimeter, barometer, and digital compass, providing accurate environmental data essential for navigation and safety during hikes.
Solar-powered functionality ensures that the watch remains charged even on long backpacking trips, eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements. Its durable design, featuring a resin case and carbon insert band, guarantees resilience against harsh outdoor conditions, making it an ideal companion for rugged adventures. This watch is best suited for casual hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize reliability and advanced functionality in their gear. With its precise timekeeping, water resistance up to 100 meters, and smart access technology, the Casio Protrek PRW6000Y-1A combines practicality and durability, ensuring a seamless hiking experience.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You Need Accurate Timekeeping - The Multi-Band Atomic Timekeeping ensures that your watch is always accurate, which is crucial for time-sensitive activities during hikes.
✅ You Hike in Various Conditions -The watch’s water resistance up to 100 meters / 330 feet and low-temperature resistance make it suitable for diverse environments, from rain-drenched trails to snowy mountains.
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You Rarely Use Advanced Features - If you don’t see yourself using features like the altimeter, barometer, and compass regularly, a simpler and more affordable watch might be a better choice.
BEST FOR HARSH ENVIRONMENTS AND ROUGH USAGE
![CASIO GWG-2000-1A3JF [G-Shock Carbon MUDMASTER Radio Solar Triple Sensor]Shipped from Japan](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71plkIPcpfL._AC_SY500_.jpg)
Case and Bezel Material: Resin / Stainless steel
Shock Resistance: Yes
Mud Resistance: Yes
Water Resistance: 200 meters
Power Supply: Tough Solar (Solar powered)
Sensor Features: Digital compass, altimeter, barometer, thermometer
World Time: 29 time zones (29 cities + coordinated universal time)
Stopwatch: 1/100-second stopwatch
9. Casio Mudmaster GWG-2000-1A3JF ★★★★
| PROS | +Durability +Comprehensive Time Features +Visibility |
| CONS | -Complexity |
| SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (GWG1000-1A3) |
| View At Amazon (GWG-B1000-3AJF) | |
| View At Amazon (GWG2000-1A1) |
Short review
The Casio GWG-2000-1A3JF from the G-Shock Carbon Mudmaster series is a one of top contender for the best hiking watches in 2024. This watch features extreme durability thanks to its Carbon Core Guard structure, making it both shock-resistant and mud-resistant. It's also dust-resistant, perfect for enduring the harshest environments.
Equipped with ABC sensors—altimeter, barometer, and digital compass—this watch provides essential data for outdoor adventures. Designed for rough usage, it handles muddy trails, river crossings, and mountain climbs with ease due to its 200-meter water resistance. The Tough Solar power system ensures long-lasting battery life, essential for extended hiking trips. Large, easy-to-read indicators and dual LED lights guarantee high visibility in any lighting situation, offering reliability and precision. For serious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, the GWG-2000-1A3JF is an indispensable tool that meets the demands of rigorous excursions.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You Rely on Environmental Data - The triple sensor capabilities, including altimeter, barometer, thermometer, and digital compass, are perfect for hikers who need reliable environmental metrics.
✅ You Often Hike in Wet Conditions -With 200-meter water resistance, this watch is ideal for hikes that include water crossings or for use in wet weather.
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You Prioritize Style Over Ruggedness - Its rugged, industrial design might not be for everyone, especially if you prefer a more minimalist or stylish watch that can be worn for both hiking and casual occasions.
BEST FOR MULTI-DAY HIKES AND MOUNTAINEERING
Screen Size: 1.3 inches
Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
Map Type: Worldwide
Sport: Running
Mounting Type: Wrist Mount
Resolution: 480 x 272
Memory Storage Capacity: 32 GB
Screen Material: Sapphire Glass
10. Coros Apex Pro 2 ★★★★☆
| PROS | +Comprehensive Navigation Features +Health Monitoring +Water Resistance |
| CONS | -Limited App Integration |
| SIMILAR MODELS | View At Amazon (APEX 2) |
| View At Amazon (PACE 3) | |
| View At Amazon (VERTIX 2) |
Short review
The Coros Apex 2 Pro is a top-tier choice for hikers and adventurers seeking a reliable and feature-rich timepiece. It boasts high-end navigation capabilities, such as dual-frequency GPS for precise tracking, and downloadable global landscape and topo maps for seamless route planning. The battery life is remarkable, offering up to 24 days of regular use or 66 hours of continuous GPS tracking, making it perfect for long outdoor trips. Despite its rugged build featuring scratch-resistant sapphire glass and a titanium alloy bezel, the watch remains compact and lightweight, ensuring comfort during extended hikes. Additionally, it includes comprehensive health monitoring features like heart rate tracking and sleep analysis, providing valuable fitness insights. With its advanced navigation, durable design, and long-lasting battery, the Coros Apex 2 Pro is ideal for multi-day hikes and mountaineering, delivering accuracy and reliability in challenging environments.
MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
✅ You Require Exceptional Durability - This watch is built with sapphire glass and a grade 5 titanium alloy bezel, offering excellent resistance to scratches and rugged conditions, ideal for challenging hikes.
✅ Health and Fitness Monitoring is Important to You - With features like heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and altitude mode, this device provides valuable health insights during your hikes.
DON'T MAKE A PURCHASE IF:
❌ You're Not Tech-Savvy - The advanced navigation features, including dual-frequency GPS and downloadable maps, require a learning curve and might not be user-friendly for those unfamiliar with such technology.
Comparing Popular Brands
| Brand | Key Models | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin | Fenix Series, Instinct 2, Enduro 2 | Advanced GPS, health metrics, ABC features, premium materials, long battery life, solar charging | Serious hikers, mountaineers, ultra-endurance athletes, budget-conscious hikers |
| Coros | Vertix 2, Apex Pro 2 | Top-tier GPS, exceptional battery life, rugged durability, compact and lightweight | Adventure seekers, multi-day hikes |
| Suunto | Vertical Titanium Solar, 9 Peak Pro | Long battery, solar charging, comprehensive health metrics, intuitive interface | Remote expeditions, ultralight backpackers |
| Apple | Watch Ultra 2 | High-accuracy GPS, advanced health tracking, Apple ecosystem integration | Tech-savvy hikers, iPhone users |
| Casio | Pro Trek PRW-6000Y | Triple sensor (ABC) technology, solar-powered, robust construction | Casual hikers |
| G-Shock | Mudmaster GWG-2000 | Extreme durability, mud and dust-resistant, ABC sensors | Harsh environments |
How to Choose the Right Hiking Watch for You
Assessing Your Needs 🏞️
The first step in selecting the right hiking watch is to assess your specific needs. For day hikes, you might prioritize lightweight models with basic GPS functionality and health metrics. For multi-day treks or remote expeditions, look for watches with extended battery life, advanced navigation features, and robust durability.
Budget Considerations 💸
Budget plays a crucial role in your decision:
- Under $100: Basic models might offer standard features like altimeter, barometer, and compass (ABC), but may lack advanced GPS capabilities.
- Under $300: Mid-range options can provide comprehensive GPS functionality, better battery life, and additional features like heart rate monitoring and solar charging.
Specific Features 🔍
When choosing a hiking watch, consider the following key features:
- GPS Accuracy 📍: Accurate navigation is essential, especially in unfamiliar terrains. Look for devices that offer multi-GNSS support.
- Battery Endurance 🔋: Ensure the watch offers enough battery life for your longest hikes, in both smartwatch and GPS modes. Solar charging can be a great bonus.
- Durability 🛡️: Opt for watches built with robust materials like titanium and sapphire crystal to withstand rugged conditions.
By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can find the perfect hiking watch to suit your adventures, whether you're a casual day hiker or a hardcore backpacker.
FAQs
What is the best hiking watch for beginners?
For beginners, the Garmin Instinct 2 is an excellent choice. It offers robust GPS functionality, multiple GNSS support, and essential ABC features (Altimeter, Barometer, Compass) at an affordable price.
Can you use an Apple Watch for hiking?
Yes, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is suitable for hiking. It features high-accuracy GPS, advanced health tracking, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. While it may not be as rugged as some specialized hiking watches, it is a versatile option for tech-savvy hikers.
Which watch has the most accurate GPS?
The Garmin Fenix 7 Pro is renowned for its exceptional GPS accuracy. It utilizes multi-GNSS support and advanced mapping capabilities, ensuring precise navigation even in challenging environments.
Which watch do professional mountain climbers wear?
Professional mountain climbers often prefer the Garmin Fenix Series or the Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar. Both models offer comprehensive GPS functionalities, extended battery life, robust durability, and advanced health metrics, making them ideal for extreme conditions.
What is the best smartwatch for hiking?
The Garmin Fenix 7 Pro and the Coros Vertix 2 are top contenders for the best smartwatch for hiking. Both offer exceptional GPS tracking, long battery life, and rugged designs. The Garmin Fenix 7 Pro stands out for its advanced mapping features, while the Coros Vertix 2 is noted for its battery endurance and durability.
Conclusion
Choosing the best hiking watch in 2024 involves assessing standout models such as the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro with its advanced GPS functionality and solar charging, and the Suunto 9 Peak Pro renowned for its extreme battery life and military-grade durability. Other top picks include the Coros Vertix 2 for its high-end navigation and excellent battery endurance, and the Apple Watch Ultra 2, perfect for tech-savvy hikers. For those on a budget, the Garmin Instinct 2 offers reliable performance with multi-GNSS support. Final recommendations emphasize the importance of features like ABC (Altimeter, Barometer, Compass), comprehensive health metrics, and rugged construction using materials like titanium and sapphire crystal. Investing in a reliable hiking watch ensures not just safety but also convenience during your outdoor adventures, whether you're embarking on a casual hike or a challenging backpacking trip. Equip yourself with a trustworthy timepiece and explore the wilderness confidently and securely.
