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10 Best Sports Watches (Review) In 2022

Best Choice
Garmin Venu GPS Smartwatch
Garmin Venu GPS Smartwatch
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Premium Pick
Suunto 5 GPS Sports Watch
Suunto 5 GPS Sports Watch
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Best Value
Timex Ironman Classic
Timex Ironman Classic
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By Shoe Hero
Published 10:26 am
Show contents
Contents
  1. 1. Garmin Venu GPS Smartwatch
  2. 2. Fitbit Versa 2 Health & Fitness Smartwatch
  3. 3. Withings/Nokia Steel HR Sport Smartwatch
  4. 4. Suunto 5 GPS Sports Watch
  5. 5. Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2
  6. 6. POLAR IGNITE - Advanced Waterproof Fitness Watch
  7. 7. SUUNTO Core Sports Watch
  8. 8. Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle Smartwatch
  9. 9. Garmin Forerunner 35
  10. 10. Timex Ironman Classic

Sports watches have to be the most tricky set of watches to decide on, simply because of the many factors that are to be considered. There’s durability, sturdiness, performance and some other really vital features to look at. For motion sports and all sorts of high-energy environments, only the most solid, robust, moisture-resistant and elegant time-pieces can make the cut. This means you’ll be looking for a smartwatch or a watch geniusly designed for hardcore sport activities; with features that support an active lifestyle. It was with great pleasure we compiled this high-tech list of solid timepieces made with state-of-the-art designs and impeccably sturdy builds.

The Best Sports Watch

Best choice

1.
Garmin Venu GPS Smartwatch

Garmin Venu GPS Smartwatch
Key Features

    Smart Notification

    Download music for phone-free listening

    20 preloaded GPS and indoor sports apps

    Pulse OX sensor

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If there’s just one thing the Garmin Venu GPS Smartwatch greatly improved on, it’s the crispy, attractive and vibrant display it rocks. When style is a major factor for you, as well as performance, this is definitely the way to go. This round-faced watch features a bright, beautiful AMOLED display, with gold accents on the dial. What’s more, framing the face is equally a gold casing neatly bordering the glass. Then there’s the black rubber straps that hold in place via a pin and buckle system.

Beyond its good looks, the Garmin Venu guarantees up to five days of battery life after being fully charged. When playing music or using the GPS you’d have sic hours max of playtime to benefit from. The watch accurately tracks energy levels, estimated heart rate, stress, sleep and even the menstrual cycle. With this broad range of health monitoring, you can keep track of fitness 24/7 without missing a beat. Make sure you also check our guide to the best pedometers for more great items like this.

Pros

GPS accuracy is great

Guaranteed 5 hours + battery life

Fitness oriented features

Cons

It’s relatively pricey

No open water swimming

The Glass screen is not very durable

2.
Fitbit Versa 2 Health & Fitness Smartwatch

Fitbit Versa 2 Health & Fitness Smartwatch
Key Features

    Built-in Amazon Alexa

    Tracks sleep score

    Always-on option

    6 plus daily battery time

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The Fitbit Versa 2 is a definite improvement and upgrade from the original Fitbit watch, Iconic. Now rocking a minimalist design, the lightweight and sleek watch has definitely grown to be a favorite among many. Improvements have been made to the face of the watch; there’s a lot more screen to enjoy as well as the AMOLED display compared to the former LED display. In general, it may not be the most teched-up phone, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing, especially for those who still love carrying their phones around. We guess it’s safe to say this Fitbit watch was made for individuals keen on fitness tracking.

Although it’s a bit lacking in features when compared to other top brands like the Garmin, that’s a bit forgivable thanks to the excellent activity and health tracking features it provides. What’s more, there’s a sensor on the back of the watch that makes contact with the skin, providing acclaimed accuracy when it comes to heart rate monitoring.

Pros

Responsive touch screen

Fitbit pay option

Brighter and more vibrant screen

Cons

Doesn’t have GPS

No offline spotify playback

Not much improvement on overall design

3.
Withings/Nokia Steel HR Sport Smartwatch

Withings/Nokia Steel HR Sport Smartwatch
Key Features

    Records sleep score

    Up to 25 days battery life in one charge

    Free Alexa-compatible Health Mate App

    Connected GPS

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Here’s a sports watch that actually mimics the classic design of a regular watch, and looks absolutely amazing while at it. The Withings/Nokia Steel HR Sport Smartwatch defied the usual fitness watch design, while combining the traditional classic face design with fitness tracking features. Its hybrid design doesn’t stop this go-getter from comprehensively monitoring heart-rates or performing multi-sport tracking efficiently. You can choose from up to thirty sports mode and get the best out of each work-out or training session from swimming, to running or even basketball.

Housed in a durable stainless steel case, the watch still possesses water-resistant features of up to 50m. Using the Health mate app, the watch keeps score of daily activities, 24/7 calculating speed, pace and elevation with a smart-wake up feature that keeps you alert and accountable. If you enjoy sports like basketball, check out our guide to the best basketball sneakers.

Pros

Underestimates certain steps

Band isn’t so comfortable

A bit pricey for the features it offers

Cons

None worth mentioning

Premium Pick

4.
Suunto 5 GPS Sports Watch

Suunto 5 GPS Sports Watch
Key Features

    GPS function

    Stress and recovery monitoring

    intelligent battery tracking

    24/7 activity tracking

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Suunto is one brand that is trusted with making really durable, rugged Smart watches and that can be seen in the Suunto 5 GPS Sports Watch. This is one watch you can feel comfortable taking practically anywhere, it’s engineered to face the challenge. With not much tweaking done on the general design, the Suunto looks almost like its predecessor. However, beyond the not-so-attractive-design, the awesome features thisi watch delivers can’t be denied.

It tracks daily activities from multi-sports activities, to stress levels and sleep quality. Yet, the highlight of this watch has to be the battery features. Guaranteeing up to 40-hours run-time, the watch equally features a smart guide that takes note of training times. The watch then reminds you to charge the device if the battery is getting low or too low, before the next session.

Pros

Less bulky than predecessors

Great functionality

Useful training plans

Cons

Screen brightness is poor

A bit complicated to navigate

Lag in heart rate monitoring

5.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2

Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2
Key Features

    Built-in sleep tracker

    Lightweight

    Compatible with non-samsung Qi devices

    Bixby Voice functionality

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We can trust the Samsung brand when it comes to phenomenal design, and a feature-packed smartwatch that’s ready to rock and roll, literally. It packs enough features to round-facedly challenge the Apple Watch 5. For more dollars than its predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 watch would work great whether you’re seated in an office or running tracks after work.

It features a lightweight, round-faced design that could be worn anywhere without hassle. The  watch alerts users if it detects a high or low heart rate, while keeping you updated on the quality of sleep each night. Don’t stress about the battery life, Samsung is guaranteeing 24 hours plus runtime on a single charge. And if there’s ever any need to recharge, easily tap from your Samsung phone via wireless power-sharing. Great for runners and can be combined with one of the best neutral running shoes from our list.

Pros

Great, sleek look on the wrists

Customizable features

Great connectivity

Cons

Doesn’t track calories burned accurately

Poor voice recognition

6.
POLAR IGNITE – Advanced Waterproof Fitness Watch

POLAR IGNITE - Advanced Waterproof Fitness Watch
Key Features

    Fitspark training guide

    Lightweight and sleek

    1-button interface and touch screen

    Advanced sleep tracking

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Don’t skip a beat with the Polar Ignite Smart Watch; this is one functional fitness watch you’ll want on your wrists when pushing boundaries and reaching goals. Sporting quite the simple and minimalist design, this round face beauty makes up for with rich features. It recommends workout plans and activities, tracks sleep routines and quality as well as recovery. The Ignite does a great job at tracking multi-sport activities, but puts priority on the individuals general wellness and fitness.

When running, cycling and swimming, it tracks speed, distance and location accurately, giving you an upper hand whenever and wherever. What’s even better is the new bioimpedance electrodes and optical sensors that ensure accuracy when tracking the optical heart rate. In addition, it tracks recovery from stress during vigorous workouts when you are sleeping. The next day, you’ll wake up to recommended fitness-workouts suitable for the body at the time. Check out our guide for best heart rate monitor.

Pros

Great recovery insights

Adaptive workout recommendations

Efficient GPS tracking

Cons

Has sync issues

Not so touch responsive

7.
SUUNTO Core Sports Watch

SUUNTO Core Sports Watch
Key Features

    All black finish

    Tracks total ascent/descent

    Rotating bezel

    Water resistant up to 100 feet

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The Suunto Core Sports Watch went the extra mile with this model, following the brands signature design and build, it’s sturdy, robust and very rugged. Some may see it as a bit bulky, but that doesn’t really take away from the extreme functionality it guarantees. This is a very thorough watch for outdoor enthusiasts that love to climb, hike, run or train.

Equipped with an altimeter that tracks vertical movement and a barometer that shows a change in air pressure as well as a compass to lead the way on those fitness adventures. It’s the perfect partner for outdoor expeditions, keeping you in the know of the time, weather conditions, geographic location and elevation. No matter where you go, the smart storm alarm keeps you safely in the know while the watch keeps track of basic data for later use. Our guide to the best CrossFit shoes offers more great products for those who like to train so check it out.

Pros

Durable watch head

Accurate GPS

Solid yet lightweight

Cons

Bands are a bit fragile

Screen display is not so bright

8.
Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle Smartwatch

Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle Smartwatch
Key Features

    Powered by OS by Google

    Works with both Iphone and Android

    Built-in GPS

    Google assistant

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The great thing about certain smartwatches is the seamless connection they provide between your wrist and a smartphone. The Fossil Gen Carlyle Smartwatch does that efficiently by connecting to your phone, and bridging the gap between the two. Can’t take the phone along on vigorous training sessions, well the Fossil Gen 5 will make up for lost time. Enjoy listening to downloaded music, while benefiting from the accurate GPS tracker that ensures you never get lost during those runs.

With adequate support from the powerful battery life, there’s a whole day to get those fitness goals ticked off, with a phone that supports you all the way. Check your heart rate, track activities and stay on top of daily activities with user-friendly ports watch.

Pros

Adequate battery life

Swimptoof and shower-proof

Allows Google pay

Cons

Doesn’t reliably hold power

Screen could be brighter

9.
Garmin Forerunner 35

Garmin Forerunner 35
Key Features

    Monitors heart rate at the wrist

    Built-in GPS

    Smart notifications

    All-day activity tracking

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The Garmin brand is really hard to beat when it comes to adequate battery life, durability and fitness-rich features. The Garmin Forerunner 35 is no different, promising a comfortable fit, the watch reliably monitors heart rate. Without needing a chest strap, this efficient, fast paced technology accurately tracks heart rate, so you can now run with more convenience and les concerns.

All through the day and night, it stays on working efficiently to track sport activities, speed, distance and location. With no time to waste and no space to give up, the watch reliably reminds you of work out time while calculating steps, pace, calories, and intensity minutes. As a bonus, when the watch is visibly connected with your smart devices, easily receive notifications from text messages, to DM and alerts. You can combine it with one of the best cross training shoes from our list.

Pros

Convenient wrist-based heart rate monitor

Tracks indoor activities

Crisp, non-glare display

Cons

A bit overpriced

Takes a while to track pace

Auto-pause malfunctions at times

Best Price

10.
Timex Ironman Classic

Timex Ironman Classic
Key Features

    Adjustable black strap

    24-hour military time mode

    Date and month calendar

    Water resistant to 100m

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The Timex Ironman Classic Sports Watch gives us a taste of what a timeless piece should be, promising decades of unwavering performance; getting the best of training sessions doesn’t always require a smartwatch. Simply a lightweight, incredibly sturdy watch that reliably keeps track of the necessary stats. It viably tracks elevation, pace and more with the benefits of being worn practically anywhere. Use this great device as a hiking watch, or take it snowboarding, climbing, snorkeling, running or swimming, it survives and performs in any terrain.

Another great feature on this classic watch is the light-up function, even though you get startled by something, it comes on. It may not have the modern day wireless function, but you can still transmit data from the watch to the Timex app via a USB cable. However, the simple GPS system works great and the battery life guarantees 12 hours with the GPS mode activated.

Pros

Extremely durable

Affordable price

Good battery time

Cons

No wireless connection

Straps are not as durable

GPS glitches sometimes

Sports Watch Buying Guide and FAQ

There are many brands competing for the crown when it comes to timeless pieces that have been engineered to suit the fast-paced, busy and extremely energetic life of an athlete or trainer. We have given a concise rundown on some of the mega watches to go for this year in terms of design, battery life, durability, sturdiness and of course price. Even more, there are vital features to consider before picking out the most suitable watch for you. That’s why we have prepared this short guide to help you make a more informed decision when picking out that top-timepiece for sports.

Features To Look For In Sports Watch

GPS - A high-performing location-tracking device will boost your confidence when embarking on those regular routines. However, a lot of fitness watches claim they have viable GPS-tracking on the device while being very unreliable. Accurate location tracking using high-tech sensors, together with the GPS on the device are the only assurance of getting qualitative, accurate results on the move.

Fitness Tracking - Some smartwatches take fitness tracking to a whole new level by providing exhaustive details on daily activities as well as daily progress. A smartwatch that provides detailed data on your fitness, speed, pace and general performance isn’t just vital for progress tracking. It’s a great motivation for individuals who plan to reach and exceed their goals.

Size - Size may not really be a big deal for some, but others put a lot of importance on this factor. A large or heavy sports watch kind of defeats the purpose; sport watches should be durable yet light on the hands to avoid any inconveniences or discomfort.

Sports Watches

Battery Life - The battery life is a major factor when it comes to the watches overall performance. A smartwatch should be able to deliver up to 15 hours of play-time while on GPS mode. However, some watches like the Garmin Fenix 6x Pro guarantee up to 60 hours on GPS mode without music. When simply using the smartwatch without GPS mode, the battery should be able to last up to a minimum of 5 days.

Personal Touch - With each top brand trying to outdo the other, there is always one function a particular sports watch may have that the other doesn’t. Do you need a sport watch for swimming, running, hiking, climbing or a general fitness watch? Those are some foundational questions that should help determine the kind of features you’d best benefit from. There’s also the style and design of the watch to consider; how sleek, lightweight, large or small it is, and which particular feature would be an outstanding no-no for you.

Touchscreen/Buttons - Smart watches vary in design as we have mentioned; while some use more classic features, others focus more on going more digital. It’s really up to you to decide which design suits better; a sports watch with touchscreen controls and applications or one with navigation and control buttons.

App Connectivity - The world has gone chest deep in a never-ending digital regime, and we can’t really say we are complaining. App connectivity, most brands have developed fitness apps that keep track of data on a larger scale than the watch itself is able. Not all smartwatches are guaranteed to provide seamless connectivity. In fact that’s one issue facing a lot of sports watches, so it’s important to find out just how well the sports watch connects to the app, offers advanced metrics as well as determine how much value the watch promises to provide.

Water Resistance - If you are going to be using the sportwatch for swimming or other water activities, then there’s need to know which watches are water-resistant. Some watches can be submerged up to 30 metres while a sports watch like the Garmin Fenix has a water rating of up to 100m. In addition, there’s also the factor of where it can be used; in swimming pools or open water. While some watches like the Garmin and Suunto 9 and 5 can be used in open water, a good range of others can’t. Please also put into consideration the type of chemicals present in the water when swimming with a sports watch.

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