When it comes to hiking and outdoor adventures, having the right tools can make all the difference. Pairing the popular trail app, AllTrails, with a reliable watch can enhance your outdoor experience and keep you on the right track.
In this guide, we’ll explore five top watch options that seamlessly integrate with AllTrails, ensuring you have the best companion for your hiking journeys.
The Power of Combining AllTrails with a Dedicated Watch
Before we dive into the specifics of each watch, let’s talk about why combining AllTrails with a dedicated watch is a game-changer. These watches provide real-time data, navigation assistance, and tracking features that enhance the app’s capabilities. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just starting, having a watch that syncs effortlessly with AllTrails can greatly improve your outdoor escapades.
Top Watch Choices for AllTrails
Let’s take a closer look at the top watch options that perfectly complement AllTrails and provide you with the information you need to choose the best fit for your hiking adventures.
1. Garmin Fenix 7: For the Trailblazers
Overview
The Garmin fenix 7 is one of the best high-end GPS watches for hiking and backpacking. It has multiple GPS systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo) for extremely accurate tracking of your routes and trails. The battery life is outstanding, lasting up to 37 days in smartwatch mode or up to 57 hours with continuous GPS.
Key Features
- Preloaded topo maps and ski maps for thousands of trails worldwide
- Can upload GPX routes to follow
- ClimbPro feature monitors ascent stats when hiking uphill
- Barometric altimeter, compass, thermometer and blood oxygen sensors
- Rugged design water rated to 10 ATM
- Sunlight readable display
- Pairs with Garmin Connect app to share hike data and track fitness goals
Summary
With a rugged design, the fenix 7 is water rated to 10 ATM, constructed with strong materials, and has a sunlight readable display. It pairs with the Garmin Connect app to share hike data, track fitness goals, and more. The fenix 7 is an investment, but is an ultra robust GPS watch for serious outdoor athletes.
2. Apple Watch Ultra: The Intersection of Style and Function
Overview
The new Apple Watch Ultra is designed for extreme sports and outdoor adventures. It has a high-accuracy GPS dual-frequency sensor and new Compass app for precise tracking. Apple worked to optimize GPS power efficiency, allowing up to 36 hours of battery life in normal use or 15 hours with continuous GPS.
Key Features
- Large 49mm titanium case and bold compass-inspired design
- Bright display readable in direct sunlight
- 100 meters water resistance, certified to EN13319 extreme diving standard
- Download trails from apps like AllTrails and view directly on the watch
- Drop waypoints to mark points of interest
- Action button gives quick access to outdoor apps and features
- Emergency SOS, fall detection, and backtrack breadcrumbs
Summary
While expensive, the Apple Watch Ultra pairs advanced fitness tracking from Apple with upgraded durability, navigation, and power for outdoor adventures.
3. Coros Vertix 2: Where Adventure Meets Innovation
Overview
With its rugged design and extra long battery life, the Coros Vertix 2 is a top choice for hikers and backpackers who go off the grid. It can run up to 140 hours with basic use or 60 hours with constant GPS to keep tracking your position.
Key Features
- Sensitive dual-band GPS, barometer, compass, and thermometer
- Offline topographic and ski maps for navigation without cell service
- EvoLab software provides advanced hiking and running metrics
- Titanium bezel and sapphire glass lens are extremely durable
- Water rating up to 100 meters
- Withstands extreme temperatures
Summary
Overall, the Vertix 2 offers unmatched battery life and ruggedness for adventurers who need superior GPS tracking and mapping far off the beaten path.
4. Suunto 9 Peak: Elevate Your Hiking Experience
Overview
Optimized for hiking and mountaineering, the Suunto 9 Peak watch has a durable steel bezel, strong glass lens, and comfortable nylon strap. It lasts up to 170 hours in Tour mode with GPS, ideal for multi-day treks.
Key Features
- Accurate FusedTrack GPS combines GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo
- Heat and altitude maps show how your body responds to the environment
- Mark points of interest, follow routes and excursions
- Monitor ascent when hiking
- Storm alerts notify you of approaching weather
- Integrates with Suunto apps for additional analysis
Summary
With an altimeter, barometer, and compass, you have key data to avoid getting lost when off-trail. The watch is waterproof up to 100 meters. While not as full-features as some watches, the Suunto 9 Peak provides excellent battery life and GPS tracking for hiking and mountaineering.
5. Polar Grit X: Designed for the Toughest Trails
Overview
The Polar Grit X packs useful outdoor smartwatch features into a rugged design at an affordable price point. It lasts up to 40 hours in GPS mode and provides decently accurate tracking from its dual-band Precision GPS system.
Key Features
- Basic trail maps and breadcrumb navigation
- Tracks pace, distance, altitude, and wrist-based heart rate
- Hill Splitter feature detects elevation gains
- Military-grade case with Gorilla glass lens
- Bright, colorful touchscreen works with wet fingers
- 100 meter water resistance and protection from dust/dirt
A Comparative Overview
| Feature Comparison | Garmin Fenix 7 | Apple Watch Ultra | Coros Vertix 2 | Suunto 9 Peak | Polar Grit X |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GPS Accuracy | High | Moderate | High | High | Moderate |
| Battery Life | Excellent | Good | Outstanding | Very Good | Excellent |
| Navigation | Turn-by-Turn | Notifications | Breadcrumb | Location | GPS Tracking |
| Durability | Rugged | Stylish | Rugged | Tough | Rugged |
| Water Resistance | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Making Your Decision
Selecting the best watch to use with AllTrails depends on your specific preferences and needs. Consider factors such as battery life, GPS accuracy, durability, and your outdoor activities. Each of these watches offers unique features that can enhance your hiking experience, so choose the one that aligns with your goals and aspirations.
Enhancing Your Adventures
Imagine confidently tackling new trails with real-time navigation, accurate tracking, and helpful alerts at your fingertips. By pairing AllTrails with one of these watches, you’re equipped with the tools to explore new paths and conquer new heights with ease and confidence.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Hiking with the Perfect Watch
In conclusion, the best watch to use with AllTrails depends on your individual preferences and needs. Whether you opt for the advanced capabilities of the Garmin Fenix 7, the stylish integration of the Apple Watch Ultra, the innovation of the Coros Vertix 2, the durability of the Suunto 9 Peak, or the toughness of the Polar Grit X, each watch offers a unique set of features.
By choosing the watch that aligns with your hiking style and requirements, you can elevate your outdoor adventures, stay connected with important trail information, and enjoy the beauty of nature without missing a beat.
Remember, the right watch is more than just a timekeeping device – it’s your trusted companion on the trail, ensuring you have a safe and memorable journey.