If you are active outdoors, whether it be running, hiking, hunting or another activity, having a trustworthy and reliable sports watch can enhance your outdoor experience. Finnish brand Suunto has been making high-end watches and navigation equipment since the 1930s, with a focus on quality and value.
If you’ve never owned a Suunto smartwatch, it can be tricky to know which model and features will work best for your lifestyle. By focusing on a few key factors, you can simplify your decision. The Suunto 5 Lightweight GPS Sports Watch is a top pick due to its light weight, GPS capabilities and long-lasting battery. To learn more about specific watch types, check out the Suunto Watch guide from BestReviews.
Sports watch: With the outdoors and athletic activities in mind, Suunto sports watches are meant to withstand rugged conditions and often include features such as GPS, weather indication, a heart-rate monitor and sleep tracking.
Premium watch: Premium Suunto watches perform just as well while you’re running up a mountain or trekking through backcountry, but they usually sport a more stylish and sleek appearance that transitions well to professional settings.
Dive computer: Made specifically for water sports and for use while diving, these Suunto watches have several unique modes not found on other models. Their screens also tend to be brighter and more colorful for enhanced visibility while in the water.
Those who plan to wear their watch mainly while exercising or on outdoor expeditions will benefit from a sports model, while those hoping for a more casual option that can still hold up on a weekend trek should invest in a premium Suunto watch.
Both standard black-and-white digital screens and full-color LCD touch screens are available. While the choice comes down to preference, for some people, the enhanced clarity of the color screen is worth the extra cost.
The bezel on Suunto watches is commonly made from rust-resistant stainless steel, although some models may use titanium or composite as an alternative.
Suunto watch faces utilize mineral or sapphire crystal depending on the model. While both materials can help prevent scratches, sapphire crystal is less likely to shatter when exposed to extreme conditions or force.
Model-specific case materials include stainless steel, composite or titanium, all of which are sturdy and require little maintenance or upkeep.
Common Suunto watch-strap materials include silicon, leather, steel, titanium and elastomer.
If your activity requires maps or if you plan on tracking your route, choose an option with built-in GPS functionality. Those venturing off-trail or heading out on extended trips usually find GPS helpful.
Suunto smart watches allow you to wirelessly connect your watch to your phone, computer, tablet, etc. to share information or seamlessly use compatible apps to track your route and progress.
There are Suunto watches that operate using a disposable battery that generally needs to be replaced once a year, and others that use rechargeable batteries. Most rechargeable Suunto watches can last up to 14 days on a full charge (less when using less-efficient modes), although some rechargeable dive watches can last even longer.
All Suunto watches are durable, designed to function properly in the harshest weather conditions, and most are waterproof up to several meters. If you think you’ll be using your watch at greater depths, purchase a dive computer model.
Helpful features such as a digital compass and weather indicator are standard on all Suunto watches. Features such as heart-rate monitors, barometers, altimeters, sleep tracking and app compatibility are available on specific models.
Suunto watches range from about $170-$1,700. While price differs depending on watch style, midrange options usually cost $280-$450.
A. Yes. As long as you have a mobile-connected Suunto watch with bluetooth connectivity, you can download the Suunto app for both iOS and Android phones.
A. Yes. There is a two-year limited warranty on Suunto watches, which covers defects and malfunctions not caused by normal wear and tear or misuse.
SUUNTO 5 Lightweight GPS Sports Watch
What you need to know: This lightweight watch is great for athletes and those looking to get the most out of their fitness routines.
What you’ll love: The GPS function allows you to easily track your route and features over 80 individual sport modes. The sturdy lightweight construction won’t get in the way of your exercise.
What you should consider: The screen can be a little too dim for some people.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Backcountry
SUUNTO Core Outdoor Sports Watch
What you need to know: Suunto core watches are perfect for those who love participating in a wide variety of athletic activities.
What you’ll love: Great for running, swimming, hiking, biking and more, the Suunto core watch uses a built-in storm alarm to alert you of potentially dangerous weather. The sleek style also looks great in casual settings.
What you should consider: There have been a few issues regarding the nylon strap.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
SUUNTO 9 Non-Baro, GPS Sports Watch
What you need to know: The Suunto 9 watch is an ideal model for those looking to track their heart rate.
What you’ll love: The 120-hour battery life means you won’t run out of charge halfway through a run or hike. With a 100-meter water-resistant rating, you can swim and practice your dives without worry.
What you should consider: A few users have complained of inaccurate heart-rate readings.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Backcountry
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Matthew Young writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
