Trail running, a discipline that takes us through mountains, forests and rugged terrain, requires not only physical preparation but also the right equipment. Among the latter, the GPS watch has rapidly established itself as an essential tool. Whether it's for measuring your performance, following a precise route or ensuring your safety during adventures in the great outdoors, a GPS watch is the answer to many of the problems faced by trail runners. But how do you choose the ideal GPS watch from the multitude of models on the market? In this article, we'll be giving you some valuable advice on selecting a watch that's perfectly suited to the needs and challenges of trail runners.
So we're going to give you our comparison and our opinion on the different models of GPS watch for trail running.
Contents
- 1 Where to find the best price for our selection
- 2 Suunto Race: A top-of-the-range watch from Suunto
- 3 Suunto Race S: Suunto's new affordable watch
- 4 Garmin Fenix 7: Extremely versatile, ideal for all trail runners and other outdoor sports
- 5 Garmin Epix Pro 2: The best GPS watch for trail running
- 6 Coros Vertix 2: The excellent alternative to Fenix and Suunto with exceptional battery life
- 7 Suunto 9 G1 Baro: An inexpensive, highly effective GPS watch
- 8 Polar Grit X Pro: Excellent watch at a reasonable price
- 9 Garmin Venu 3 or 3S: the perfect trail watch for women
- 10 Frequently asked questions about trail watches
Where to find the best price for our selection
Suunto Race: A top-of-the-range watch from Suunto
La Suunto Race is the perfect ally for demanding trail runners, combining advanced technology with the latest technology. reliability a rock-solid foundation. Sound High-precision GPS coupled with off-line mapping and a 'little thumb' function, guarantees safe navigation on the most technical trails. The integrated heart rate monitor and the cardiac variability allow you to closely monitor your effort and recovery, which are essential for optimising your progress.
L'artificial intelligence The Suunto Coach revolutionises your approach to training by personalising each session according to your goals. The watch is distinguished by its AMOLED screen, which is perfectly legible even in bright sunlight, and its ergonomic thumbwheel, which makes it easy to navigate the menus, even with sweaty hands. With a watertightness 100 metres and weighing just 83 grams, it adapts to all weather conditions without ever slowing you down.
L'autonomy of 50 hours in GPS mode and 16 days in traditional use means you'll be free of any constraints on your longest outings. Compatibility with TrainingPeaks and access to over 95 sports allow you to vary your training while keeping accurate track of your performance. The personalised Training Zone and configurable alarms help you to achieve your goals, whether you're planning a local race or an ambitious ultra-trail.
Suunto Race S: Suunto's new affordable watch
For trail runners in search of performance, the Suunto Race S stands out for its balance between lightness and technology advanced. Weighing in at just 60 grams, it packs a Multi-band GPS with remarkable precision, essential for technical routes. Its off-line mapping, combined with a 'little thumb' function and built-in barometer, make it a complete navigation tool for venturing onto the most remote trails with complete confidence.
Suunto Coach's artificial intelligence revolutionises the way you approach trail training. By analysing your data and heart rate variability, it optimises each session and monitors your recovery to ensure constant progress. The display 1.32″ AMOLED offers perfect readability even in bright sunlight, while the ergonomic thumbwheel makes it easy to navigate the menus, even with sweaty hands.
With a battery life of 30 hours in multi-band GPS mode, the Race S is ready to accompany you on long outings without compromising on precision. Compatibility with TrainingPeaks means you can analyse your performance in depth, while the 95 built-in sports modes encourage variety in your training. Compact dimensions of 4.5 x 4.5 x 1.14 cm and water resistance to 50 metres ensure comfortable use in all conditions, from muddy trails to ford crossings.
Garmin Fenix 7: Extremely versatile, ideal for all trail runners and other outdoor sports
Product presentation
The Garmin Fenix 7 is a cutting-edge multisport GPS watch designed to meet the needs of athletes and outdoor adventurers. It combines advanced tracking technology with rugged durability, making this watch ideal for a wide range of activities, from trail running and triathlon to hiking and skiing.
Its battery life is impressive, making it ideal for long training sessions or extended expeditions. It incorporates advanced navigation functions, including topographical maps, satellite navigation (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo) and real-time tracking.
The watch is equipped with wrist heart rate sensors, a pulse oximeter for monitoring altitude acclimatisation, as well as an altimeter, barometer and compass. It also offers a wide range of training functions, from fitness monitoring to detailed sports performance analysis, including sport-specific metrics.
Finally, the Garmin Fenix 7 is known for its durability, with a robust casing and hard-wearing materials ready to take on the toughest conditions. It also offers seamless connectivity with smartphones for notifications and interaction with the Garmin ecosystem.
It's not a clear upgrade from the Garmin Fenix 6, but it is a real investment for trail runners and sportsmen with a previous watch.
GPS watch features
| Features | Garmin Fenix 7 |
|---|---|
| Case size | 51x51x14.9mm |
| Autonomy | 89 hours + solar recharge |
| Altimeter | Barometric altimeter |
| GPS | Yes with dual frequency for sapphire and models S and X |
| Cartography | Yes, on all models in the range |
| Watertightness | 100m |
Advantages & disadvantages
Benefits
✅ Touch screen (can be deactivated)
✅ A revamped interface
✅ Excellent autonomy
✅ Drive functionality
✅ More precise sensors
Disadvantages
❌ A boiter as imposing as ever
The trailers' opinion of the watch
The opinion of La Compagnie du Trail
The Garmin Fenix 7 is the ultimate GPS watch for trail running, offering durability and resistance to tackle rugged terrain. Its long-lasting battery is perfect for ultramarathons and extended training sessions.
It boasts advanced navigation capabilities with accurate topographical maps and satellite tracking, essential for finding your way around remote trails, especially if you're using guidance.
Integrated sensors such as the altimeter and barometer are crucial for tracking changes in altitude and weather, while heart rate and blood oxygenation monitoring features help trail runners manage their effort at high altitude.
With all these advantages, the Fenix 7 is the perfect ally for trail runners looking for performance and reliability.
Garmin Epix Pro 2: The best GPS watch for trail running
Product presentation
The Garmin Epix Pro 2 is a top-of-the-range sports watch designed specifically to meet the needs of athletes and outdoor adventurers. It features a high-resolution AMOLED display, offering exceptional clarity and legibility in all lighting conditions. The watch also boasts an extended battery life, ideal for long training sessions and extended expeditions.
In terms of navigation, the Epix Pro 2 is equipped with detailed topographical maps and supports several satellite navigation systems, including GPS, GLONASS and Galileo, guaranteeing maximum accuracy and reliability for explorations in varied terrain. It incorporates a host of sensors, including a wrist heart rate sensor, pulse oximeter, altimeter, barometer and compass, providing vital real-time measurements for a complete sports and adventure experience.
In addition to its navigation and health tracking capabilities, the Epix Pro 2 offers a full range of training and wellness features, with detailed sports performance analysis tailored to a variety of disciplines. Its robust construction combines durability and aesthetics, making this watch an ideal choice for those seeking both performance and style.
GPS watch features
| Features | Garmin Epix Pro 2 |
|---|---|
| Case size | 51 mm |
| Autonomy | 11 days or 82 with GPS activated |
| Altimeter | Barometric |
| GPS | Multiband GPS |
| Cartography | Yes |
| Watertightness | 100 m |
Advantages & disadvantages
Benefits
✅ Features
✅ Reliability of information
✅ Autonomy
✅ Screen and casing quality
Disadvantages
❌ Price
The opinion of La Compagnie du Trail
The Garmin Epix Pro 2 is an extremely versatile and technologically advanced top-of-the-range sports watch. Obviously, this watch has some very advanced capabilities. This watch is the most advanced in the Garmin range.
It is therefore aimed at sports enthusiasts and experienced runners.
All in all, the Garmin Epix Pro 2 is an excellent option for those looking for a comprehensive, durable multisport watch with cutting-edge features.
Coros Vertix 2: The excellent alternative to Fenix and Suunto with exceptional battery life
Product presentation
Designed for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, this watch is specially adapted for outdoor sports, and even has a dedicated trail mode. It stands out for its remarkable battery life of 140 hours in GPS mode, providing navigation and tracking for very long events such as ultra-distance running.
Its robust design incorporates top-of-the-range materials such as titanium and a synthetic diamond-reinforced sapphire crystal, guaranteeing its durability even in hostile environments. In terms of positioning, it features a 5-satellite multi-GNSS GPS with dual frequency, ensuring flawless accuracy, especially in mountainous terrain.
In terms of its ability to adapt to altitude, the watch's Altitude mode monitors the wearer's oxygenation and acclimatisation from an altitude of 2,500m. In terms of multimedia functions, it is equipped with an MP3 player and an ECG. It is also equipped with various sensors such as a heart rate monitor, oximeter, altimeter and thermometer.
In terms of weather, the watch provides weather forecasts, including storm warnings. Finally, for sports training and navigation, it uses integrated cartography to provide precise and efficient navigation tools.
GPS watch features
| Features | Coros Vertix 2 |
|---|---|
| Case size | 50.3 x 50.3 x 15.7 mm |
| Autonomy | 140 hours with GPS |
| Altimeter | barometric altimeter |
| GPS | Yes with dual frequency |
| Cartography | No |
| Watertightness | 100m |
Advantages & disadvantages
Benefits
✅ 140h battery life in GPS mode
✅ Dual-frequency GPS: ideal for mountain activities
✅ Heart rate monitors and altimeters
✅ No turn-by-turn guidance
✅ Enjoy your visit
Disadvantages
❌ Size
The trailers' opinion of the watch
The opinion of La Compagnie du Trail
Designed for outdoor adventurers and specially adapted to outdoor sports such as trail running, this watch boasts an impressive battery life of 140 hours in GPS mode. Its robustness is ensured by top-of-the-range materials such as titanium and reinforced sapphire crystal. It offers unrivalled pinpoint accuracy thanks to a 5-satellite multi-GNSS GPS system, essential for mountainous terrain.
In addition to its durability, the user benefits from a host of features, including the Altitude mode, which monitors acclimatisation in the high mountains, various sensors such as the heart rate monitor and oximeter, and integrated mapping for precise navigation. These features, combined with weather alerts, make it an essential training and exploration companion for sports enthusiasts.
Suunto 9 G1 Baro: An inexpensive, highly effective GPS watch
Product presentation
The Suunto 9 Baro presents itself as the watch of choice for versatile sportsmen and women, offering a colourful touchscreen and remarkable battery life (we're talking 120 hours of autonomy here). Its FusedTrack™ technology improves route accuracy by combining GPS with internal sensor data, and its battery management system ensures optimal use. The watch also has a barometric altimeter and following changes in pressure, it performs a rebalancing with the altimeter derived from the GPS. This ensures that the altitude difference is as close to reality as possible.
Equipped with a thermometer, this watch provides detailed weather data, including storm warnings. Its functions are enhanced by the display of sunrise and sunset times, altitude graphs and other essential tools for adventurers. It also comes in a version with a titanium bezel, which is lighter for greater user comfort.
Ideal for those who take part in trail running, triathlons, intensive training or extreme endurance events such as ultratrails or ultramarathons. What's more, it represents the most affordable option among the models compared, combining functionality and accessibility with a relatively low price given the watch's qualities.
GPS watch features
| Features | Suunto 9 G1 Baro |
|---|---|
| Case size | 50 x 24 x 16.8 mm |
| Autonomy | 120h |
| Altimeter | barometric altimeter |
| GPS | Yes |
| Cartography | Yes |
| Watertightness | 100m |
Advantages & disadvantages
Benefits
✅ Excellent value for money
✅ Altimeter barometer
✅ GPS and high-performance navigation
Disadvantages
❌ Quite a large case compared to the rest of the range
The trailers' opinion of the watch
The opinion of La Compagnie du Trail
This watch is extremely interesting for beginners and even seasoned trail runners. This watch has all the functions you need for trail running and outdoor sports in general.
Apart from a slightly different design, it inherits all the top-of-the-range functions of Suunto watches. An excellent value for money product
Polar Grit X Pro: Excellent watch at a reasonable price
Product presentation
The Polar Grit X Pro is a sophisticated evolution of the Polar Grit X, positioned to compete with established brands such as Suunto and Garmin.
It comes in two versions: steel and titanium, the latter renowned for its lightness and enhanced robustness. The screen, now continuously illuminated, is protected by a resistant sapphire crystal.
This watch stands out with notable additions such as the return-to-start function, a detailed display including the slope profile, altitude data, a compass, and sunrise and sunset times. It also incorporates the innovations found in the Vantage V2, such as performance tests and Recovery Pro. Whether it's trail running, mountain biking, running or triathlon, it's perfectly suited to all these activities.
Borrowing the strengths of the Grit X, the Pro version is characterised by its robustness (compliant with military standards) and high-end aesthetics. It also promises an impressive battery life of 40 hours in GPS mode.
It excels in cutting-edge training features, including adaptive programmes, hydration and nutrition alerts, advanced performance tracking and all the tools you need to improve your abilities and achieve your ambitions. What's more, it measures power directly at the wrist, eliminating the need for additional sensors. This function is particularly useful for evaluating the work done by leg muscles over varied terrain and during interval training.
The Grit X Pro shines with its advanced navigation capabilities, offering invaluable terrain recognition and elevation prediction, as well as an interface with Komoot for better orientation. It also provides a two-day weather forecast.
Finally, you can track your performance and your various health statistics on the Polar app.
GPS watch features
| Features | Polar Grit X Pro |
|---|---|
| Screen size | 3cm |
| Autonomy | 40h in GPS mode |
| Altimeter | Barometric altimeter |
| GPS | Yes |
| Cartography | No mapping |
| Watertightness | 100m |
Advantages & disadvantages
Benefits
✅ Very good value for money
✅ Robust and elegant design
✅ Good training follow-up
✅ Enjoy your visit
✅ Enjoy your visit
Disadvantages
❌ No mapping
The trailers' opinion of the watch
The opinion of La Compagnie du Trail
The Polar Grit X Pro is an essential choice for trail running, thanks to its military-standard robustness and light weight, particularly with the titanium version. It boasts an impressive battery life of 40 hours in GPS mode, essential for long outings. Its advanced navigation functions, combined with adaptive training programmes and precise performance monitoring, make it an invaluable tool for trail runners, all offering excellent value for money.
Garmin Venu 3 or 3S: the perfect trail watch for women
The Garmin Venu 3 is an ideal multisport watch for beginner and intermediate runners, offering the perfect combination of advanced features and stylish design. With comprehensive health tracking, personalised training plans and a host of integrated sports options, it allows runners of all levels to progress with confidence. Whether you're new to trail running or looking to improve your performance, the Venu 3 will support you with accurate and intuitive tools, helping you to better understand your body and optimise your training sessions.
Versatility and sporting performance
With over 20 integrated sports, including trail running, running and cycling, the Venu 3 is a real personal trainer. It offers animated workouts for weight training, yoga and Pilates, as well as pre-designed training plans via Garmin Coach. The watch also has a battery life of 5 days in connected mode and 6 hours in GPS mode with music, making it ideal for long outdoor rides.
Connectivity and security
The Garmin Venu 3 lets you download your favourite playlists from Spotify or Deezer and pay contactlessly with Garmin Pay. It receives notifications from your smartphone and incorporates advanced security functions such as incident detection and real-time assistance. Waterproof to 5 ATM, it can withstand all weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for demanding runners.
Frequently asked questions about trail watches
Why choose a GPS watch for trail running?
A high-quality GPS watch is an invaluable tool for trail running, for a number of very specific reasons.
Firstly, orientation and safety are fundamental aspects of trail running. A GPS watch allows you to locate yourself accurately and follow predefined routes, reducing the risk of getting lost. What's more, some watches offer additional functions such as weather alerts and altitude sensors, essential for staying safe in mountainous terrain.
Secondly, training monitoring and performance analysis are crucial for any serious runner. A GPS watch records data such as distance covered, pace and heart rate, allowing you to adjust your training sessions to maximise your efficiency. It can also provide reminders for hydration and nutrition, two key elements for maintaining optimum performance during long runs.
Finally, motivation and long-term monitoring of your progress are made much easier with a GPS watch. The ability to set goals and see your improvements over time is a powerful motivator. And with extended battery life, these watches are designed to endure the longest events, ensuring you have reliable support throughout your trail running adventures.
Find out more about trail watches
What makes a good trail running watch?
A good trail watch must have a number of key features to meet the specific needs of this sporting discipline. Here are the main ones:
| Features | Detail |
|---|---|
| Battery life | Indispensable for long runs and training sessions. |
| Robustness and resistance | Essential for withstanding harsh outdoor conditions. |
| GPS | Vital for navigation and precise tracking. |
| Environmental sensors | Altimeter, thermometer, compass for orientation in rough terrain. |
| Activity and health monitoring | Measures heart rate and blood oxygenation to manage effort. |
| Training functions | Programmes, pace alerts, performance monitoring to improve training. |
| Weather alerts | Information on climate change to help you prepare. |
| Connectivity and compatibility | Synchronisation with applications and data sharing. |
| Comfort and ergonomics | Comfortable design and strap for long sessions. |
| Cartography and navigation | Integrated maps and advanced navigation for exploring new trails. |
Where can I buy a trail running watch?
There are several ways to buy your trail running watch.
Of course, you can also buy them in physical shops. You'll find them in every sports store.
On the other hand, it's best to look at specialist websites. Prices can be much lower than in-store. We recommend our partner sites Alltricks and Irun for buying your equipment (textile or electronic).