An avid hiking enthusiast and smartwatch tester recently shared insights on selecting the ideal smartwatch for hiking adventures. With countless models available, ranging from under $100 to over $1,000, the guide highlights five crucial factors hikers should prioritize when choosing a device to reliably track their outdoor activities.
1. Onboard GPS
Smartwatches with onboard GPS are essential for hiking since they track location independently without relying on a smartphone, which may lose battery or signal during long treks. Devices offering dual- or multi-band GPS provide enhanced accuracy and reliability. While premium models like the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra feature dual-band GPS, more affordable options such as the Garmin Instinct 3 ($399) and Amazfit T-Rex 3 ($279) also offer multi-band GPS capabilities.
2. Long Battery Life
A common challenge with GPS-enabled watches is the high battery drain during tracking. Manufacturers typically provide two battery life ratings: one for standard use and another for GPS usage. For instance, the Apple Watch Series 10 lasts about 18 hours normally but only around 6–7 hours with GPS active, making it less suitable for extended hikes. Conversely, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 supports up to 12 hours of GPS use, and Garmin’s Instinct 3 AMOLED can track GPS for over 24 hours on a single charge, with the solar version extending this to 40 hours. The Garmin Forerunner 165 offers around 17 hours of GPS tracking, balancing performance and affordability.
3. Onboard Altimeter
An onboard altimeter is a valuable tool for hikers who need to monitor elevation changes, especially in mountainous terrain like the Cascade Mountains. Watches lacking this feature may still estimate climb data, but such information is often less precise and should be interpreted cautiously.
4. Bright Screen and Durable Design
Visibility on the trail is critical, making a bright display—preferably AMOLED—a must-have for easy readability under direct sunlight. High-end smartwatches like the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra lead in screen quality, but even budget-friendly models like the Amazfit Active 2 offer impressive displays in 2025. Durability is equally important for hikers prone to knocks and scrapes. Many modern watches come with scratch- and shatter-resistant glass, and some, such as the Instinct 3, T-Rex 3, and Galaxy Watch Ultra, provide additional protection through oversized bezels.
5. Support for Offline Maps (Optional)
Top-tier outdoor smartwatches often support offline map storage, enabling navigation without cellular service. Garmin and Polar are recognized for their excellent offline map features, including turn-by-turn directions, topographic details, and points of interest. However, Garmin reserves these capabilities for premium models like the Fenix and Enduro series, which come at a high price. Polar offers a more accessible option with the Polar Vantage M3, priced around $400. Budget watches like the Amazfit Active 2 and T-Rex 3 also support offline maps but tend to have less polished interfaces and usability compared to Garmin and Polar offerings.
In summary, hikers seeking a smartwatch should focus on reliable onboard GPS, strong battery life, an altimeter, a bright and durable screen, and optionally, offline map support to ensure a dependable companion on every trail.
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