Best Suunto Running Watches Reviewed
Whether you are solely a runner or someone who participates in other athletic ventures, there’s a Suunto running watch out there for you. The best Suunto watches offer additional features that you will love—like a heart rate monitor, stopwatch selections, syncing options, and so much more!
If you want to push your performance to another level and monitor your health on a deeper level, then one of the best Suunto running watches may be a perfect addition to your running gear. Make sure to take a close look at each of our reviews!
Check out our top picks!
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Features
Once upon a time, a simple analog watch or stopwatch was the only tool available to a runner to help track his or her pace and time. Your fingers were used to take your heart rate, and you had to depend on your brain to remember the way back to the beginning of your route. You watched the local news or poked your head out the door to check the weather conditions for the day.
This is not so anymore. Running watches offer incredible features to help ease the burden of preparing for a run and monitoring your progress. How fast are you running? Check your watch! At what altitude am I running? Check your watch! How does my average pace this week compare to last week? Check your watch!
Modern running watches can track everything imaginable and are even compatible with apps and smartphones so your workout data is easily accessible at any time. Running watches are more than just timekeepers. They can measure anything from pace and distance to heart rate and calories, to elevation and route. Modern watches offer many functions that we researched, including:
Pace, time, and distance tracking
The best Suunto running watches offer pace, time, and distance tracking. This allows you to measure and track how fast you are running in total or per lap as well as how far you run in total. This will help you track your progress and see where you are and how to get where you want to go.
GPS tracking so you don't get lost
Many running watches have GPS capabilities. Not only do these create accurate route maps, but they can also be used to help prevent you from getting lost on a trail or in an unfamiliar area. They can also help you create new routes or establish favorites for consistent workout routines.
Heart Rate monitoring capabilities
Your heart rate indicates the intensity of your exercise program or activity. Many watches are equipped with straps or sensors to measure this and can save and track the data. If you really want to track and measure your progress, this is a great way to do so.
Keep track of how many calories you burn
When running for weight loss, it is important for some people to know how many calories they burned during a workout. It is also good information for refueling purposes for all athletes. Running watches, through sensors or a heart rate strap, can approximate how many calories you burned during a run, and can save and track the data.
Altimeter: Altitude tracking capabilities
Altitude is your elevation above sea level. Altitude affects how oxygen is passed through your bloodstream and body, and therefore can greatly affect your run. Monitoring your altitude can help you adjust to deal with changes in your environment.
Weather and Barometric Pressure tracking
Although we try, it can be difficult to predict the weather. Many running watches are programmed with weather apps that alert you of sudden changes, like an oncoming storm. If you like to stay on top of the weather changes and don't want to be surprised, then this is a great feature to look out for.
Barometric Pressure is air pressure, and as you climb or descend in elevation, the pressure around you changes. Not only can this affect how you run, but also your muscles and joints. Some watches can monitor this and help you prepare to deal with changes in air pressure on your route.
More than just a running watch---there are also activity tracking options!
Some watches aren't just for running. They can also track activities like biking and swimming, which is great for triathletes. Some even have functions for outdoor enthusiasts that hunt and fish! This option is perfect for those of you who do more than just run--so, look out for those options if that is something you're looking for!
App compatibility
Many watches can be loaded with or connected to apps. The functions of these apps ranged from simple data collection and display to workout creation, recovery monitoring, and route planning. The best part about these apps is that they are compatible with most platforms and smartphones.
Ease of Use
With all of the functionality that Suunto watches offer, it's important that the watch is designed to be easy to use so that you can find the function you want quickly and easily. Whether you're running, scuba diving, climbing, skiing or snowboarding, or just lounging by the pool, you don't want to be held up by your watch.
So we looked at the design of each watch as well as what users had to say and then assigned each watch on our list with a score based on how easy it is to use. So you can do all the research and figure it out all on your own, or you can just refer to our handy-dandy buying guide so you can quickly find the best watch for you and get back to what it is you do best.
Style
While functionality and durability is obviously the most important thing you're looking for when you buy a high-quality Suunto watch, it doesn't hurt if it looks good and helps you to feel stylish while you're wearing it. We took it upon ourselves to assign each watch on our list a rating based on its style.
At RunnerClick we like to think we're pretty hip and up to date (although our kids might disagree!) so you're in good hands when you've got us for your personal sports equipment stylist. We also considered what over 1500 reviewers had to say, because we suppose their opinion counts too.
In the end, you've got 9 amazing, highly functional, accurate, and tough best Suunto running watches to choose from, and if the style is an important criterion for you we've made it easy to find out which ones rank highest in that all-important category.
Value
We all live on a budget. With that in mind, we believe that everyone should be able to find the running gear that helps them perform at their best while also not breaking the bank. We research the costs of the watches on our list so you are aware as a consumer and so that there is an option to fit in every budget.
After researching the cost of each watch on the list we measure them against their features, durability, and a host of other factors, as well as look at what reviewers had to say and then give each watch a value score from 0-100. This score isn't necessarily determined by price alone, but by the value, it offers the consumer.
An expensive watch might get a good value score because it has a lot of useful functions and is easy to use, while a more affordable one could actually get a lower score because even though it's affordable it doesn't offer as much value.
Read also about best deals on running shoes.
Use
Before buying one of the great Suunto watches from our list, be sure to think about what you'll be using it for. A running watch is meant to enhance your performance, not hinder it, and if you're buying a watch to use while skiing or mountain climbing it needs to have different features than the one you'll use for running and/or hiking.
And beyond what you'll be using it for If a watch requires you to constantly stop and restart your run, it won't be a good fit for you. A running watch should be easy to operate while in motion. The screen should be large and easy to read with just a glance. The features should work automatically as you run to minimize disruptions and disturbances.
The buttons or touchscreen functions should be conveniently placed so the runner can use them without looking or just by quickly shifting their eyes.
9 Best Suunto Running Watches
1. Baro GPS
The Suunto 9 Baro GPS running watch is one of the brand’s best watches out there. It offers tons of beneficial features that is perfect for those of you who run and participate in other athletic activities. If you want a watch that is easy to use, looks great, and is comfortable you will love this one!
Read moreFeatures
When it comes to features, this running watch offers quite a bit. It provides you with accurate weather information, so you don’t get caught by surprise. It is water resistant up to 100 meters and the barometer is really accurate as well. The calorie counter is one of the best features as well!
The battery life is great and even better without certain features. It has a heart sensor that is pretty reliable, although some users report it isn’t as accurate as other options. The running watch also features a step counter as well as a sleep tracker.
Ease of Use
This running watch is really easy to use and a perfect option for those of you who need a watch that offers tracking for several activities. You can create different profiles—which some users report is a little difficult at first but easy to get used to.
Style
If you want a running watch that will look great with anything you wear, then you will absolutely love this model. It is a little bulkier than other Suunto models, however, it is certainly still lightweight and comes in lots of colors to choose from!
Value
This is one of the most expensive running watches on our list, however, it is worth every penny if you can afford to splurge. You can customize the colors of your watch and enjoy all of the features it has to offer.
Use
Since this running watch is completely waterproof, you can get it wet without having to worry. It is perfect for athletes who participate in several activities—and obviously a great option for those of you who like to run.
2. Ambit 2 GPS
If you are looking for a great GPS running watch, you need to take a look at this one. It offers tons of great features you will love, accurate location tracking, and its sleek design will look great with no matter you wear.
Read moreFeatures
When it comes to features, this watch offers great GPS tracking, so you never get lost—no matter where you are. It also has a pretty accurate heart rate monitor and several sport modes to choose from. This watch also comes with a weather forecaster, for those of you who hate to be surprised.
This running watch also offers an altimeter, barometer, and easy to use compass. It is compatible with the Suunto brand’s apps. Overall, it is designed for athletes who need something that can track all of their activities.
Ease of Use
When it comes to ease of use, this running watch is really easy to use. Few users report any difficulty getting used to all of the features the watch has to offer although some do mention they have to get used to using the brand’s accompanying apps.
Style
This Suunto watch is sleek and stylish. It is a little on the larger side, but that makes it easier for the user to read and follow. That being said, you can definitely wear this running watch all day with any of your favorite watches.
Value
As far as value, this is one of the top fitness watches and it is worth every penny! It is definitely going to be an investment if you decide to get this one but it will certainly last you the long haul if you do.
Use
Trail runners everywhere rave about this watch. It is perfect for those of you who like to go off the beaten path or explore new trails and area. Its features are perfect for those of you who want something that will track all of your sports and that is really versatile.
3. Spartan Trainer Wrist HR
The Spartan Trainer Wrist HR is our #1 pick of the best Suunto running watches. It is perfectly designed for the runner whose regimen goes well beyond running. This watch will help you coordinate multiple overlapping exercise routines with its plethora of watch programs.
Read moreFeatures
The Spartan Trainer Wrist HR measurement capabilities have few equals. It has the ability to accurately document a variety of running and training statistics. Pair this up with the Suunto Movescount app so you can track your progress over time, and it's like you have a personal trainer that you can wear on your wrist.
Ease of Use
The user interface is extremely responsive and makes it easy for keeping tabs on a runner's various statistics and goals.
Style
The watch is small compared to other similar products and especially light and comfortable, making it easy to wear no matter the circumstances.
Value
Definitely one of the lowest prices in the best Suunto running watches line of products, but with the Spartan Trainer Wrist HR, you definitely won't have to sacrifice any quality to get a bargain.
Use
A long battery life makes it great for going out and making a day of it, pushing all of your limits without worrying about things that are outside of your control.
4. Ambit3 Sport
The Ambit3 Sport measures all of the essential running metrics to track your progress, and then some, especially with the help of Suunto apps. This is an excellent choice from the best Suunto running watches for triathletes because it can also record cycling and swim data.
Read moreFeatures
This watch tracks speed, distance, altitude, pace, and route. The Movescount app can be used to plan workouts, discover new routes, and provide training programs. Calls and messages can be accessed when the watch is linked to your smartphone, and Suunto movies can be created to share workout highlights with your friends.
Ease of Use
This watch has wireless connectivity, so your workout data is always up-to-date and ready for analysis. A large display screen allows for easy reading during a workout. Multi-sport data is recorded in one log, so there is no switching back and forth between screens.
Style
When it comes to style, this watch looks great. It is sleek, minimalistic, and stylish--so it looks great with almost anything.
Value
This watch is priced just slightly below the average for other best Suunto running watches which makes it a great value because you still get the legendary Suunto accuracy and durability.
Use
This watch is perfect for athletes who do more than just run. This watch will track several athletic activities, so you will love this one.
5. Fitness
The Suunto 3 Fitness HR running watch is perfect for all athletes. It offers a ton of different sport modes to choose from and the battery life is great. It was one of the more cost-effective options on our list, so if your budget is a little tight, you will love this running watch!
Read moreFeatures
When it comes to features, this watch offers quite a bit! It has a step counter, calorie tracker, a stopwatch, as well as an easy to use alarm. You can sync this watch to your phone so you can get all of your notifications directly to your watch, so you don’t have to keep your phone on hand.
The watch also offers 70 sport modes options to choose from and will even customize your workouts for you. The heart rate sensor is not as accurate underwater, however, so it is important to keep that in mind if you decide to get this running watch.
Ease of Use
This running watch is really easy to use once you get the hang of it, although some users report they don’t have any issues from the very beginning.
Style
Since this running watch is available in several color options to choose from when it comes to the bands of the watch, it is a really stylish watch to get It will look great with almost any outfit, so you can wear it with anything you’d like to wear it with.
Value
In terms of value, this watch is one of the more cost effective options to choose from. If you are on a budget, you will love this watch because it offers a lot of the same features as many of the other options on our list, but at an even better price!
Use
If you want a versatile running watch, this is it. You can use it to track any and all of your activities. Some options are more accurate than others but overall this is a great option for well-rounded athletes looking for a watch that will track all of their activities.
6. Spartan Sport Wrist HR
The brand’s Spartan Sport Wrist HR is a perfect selection for those of you looking for an all-around fitness tracker. It looks great and has tons of band color options to choose from and will look great with anything you wear—and you can absolutely wear it all day!
Read moreFeatures
If you want a watch with lots of features, you will love this watch. It has a heart rate monitor that is pretty accurate, although some users report it offers more of a rough estimate. The watch will also track your calories and it is water resistant for up to 100 meters.
This running watch is also able to retrace your steps and the GPS is really reliable. This watch will also track your distance, paces, cadence and so much more!
Ease of Use
The best part about this running watch is that it is really easy to use. The touchscreen is easy to read and navigate through. It is a fitness tracker and a perfect option for those of you looking for a watch that will cover all of your activities.
Style
If you want a stylish watch, you will love this one. The band comes in lots of colors to choose from, so you can customize it to fit your personal preferences.
Value
In terms of value, this running watch is a little pricey, but a little more affordable than other options on our list.
Use
When it comes to use, this running watch is perfect for those of you looking for a watch that will track all of your activities—from running and swimming to how many steps you take on a daily basis and how many calories you burn. It is definitely really versatile!
7. Ambit3 Peak
The Ambit3 Peak is the ultimate combination of a running, triathlete, and climbing watch. It offers every feature imaginable for any style of the runner while also gearing toward outdoor sports enthusiast in general.
Read moreFeatures
An included heart rate chest strap monitors your heart rate, recovery, and sleep patterns. The altimeter measures your vertical climb, while the bike power support feature collects data as you ride. All sports activities are recorded in one log, as a part of the best Suunto running watches.
Ease of Use
Everything you want this watch to do, it does automatically! Your progress in running, swimming, biking, and climbing is constantly monitored and made ready for analysis. Weather conditions and GPS tracking work effortlessly to keep you safe, prepared, and on the right path.
Style
When it comes to style, this running watch is pretty sporty and athletic. It looks great and offers a lot of features you will love.
Value
This watch is averagely priced compared to other great Suunto running watches. Furthermore, because of Suunto's well know high-quality standards, this makes the Ambit 3 Peak a bargain.
Use
Data is sent to your smartphone through the Movescount app for safekeeping and analysis. And these features can all be customized to your liking.
8. Spartan Ultra HR
Suunto went above and beyond with the this one. Comparing closely to the infamous Ambit 3 Peak, it is loaded with tons of accurate features to excel even the most basic of athletes into another realm of “working out”. The Sapphire Crystal glass is extra durable and they added a new interchangeable silicone band that no longer pulls and tugs at the hair or skin like many other styles Suuntos.
Read moreFeatures
The list of special features goes on and on. However, there are a couple of them that stand out above the rest. For starters, users are raving about the Fused Track Technology. Fused Track annalizes at smaller GPS intervals offering highly detailed data collection in between GPS pings.
Ease of Use
As an addition, Just like any HR sensors on a majority watches across the board, getting a chest strap will always offer more reliability. However, testing it against the Suunto Smart Sensor will give you a better idea of the real-time Heart rate reading for those times when you don't have access to the strap.
Style
This running watch is designed to look minimalistic and sporty. It looks great with anything you wear and you can wear it 24/7 if you wish.
Value
The watch has been said to be one of the more accurate and well planned out designs in the Suunto line. You get your Smartwatch features and a well mapped out GPS intervals and more. This watch is a beast. Although this sets it at a higher price range, the watch is worth every penny and will keep you informed and updated with Suuntos accuracy and user-friendly platform.
Use
It is also suited with the Intelligent Battery Technology granting more than decent battery time - adding 5 hours in certain timed applications- and a swift, flawless Bluetooth makes for a pleasant experience when getting all the data downloaded.
9. Traverse Alpha
Heads up trail runners, this is the watch for you! It's rugged and durable design can stand up to anything you throw at it. Moreover, with Suuntos top notch GPS, it can even help prevent you from getting lost.
Read moreFeatures
This watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters, and its case is made of glass fiber reinforced composite and stainless steel, which means it is incredibly durable. It supports two satellite systems and even includes hunting and fishing functions for outdoor enthusiasts.
Ease of Use
The GPS features of the Traverse Alpha automatically track your path, ensuring that you can find your way back to the start of your run. Built-in weather trackers alert you of changes automatically, along with messages and calls coming in from your smartphone. And best of all, these functions can all be programmed and customized with the simple click of a button.
Style
When it comes to style, this Suunto watch features an athletic look that is minimalistic and easy to use.
Value
This watch is currently sold at the average price of other best Suunto running watches, which means it's a good value for the money.
Use
In terms of use, this running watch is perfect for those of you who need a durable watch that you can rely on. It offers reliable GPS features that make it perfect for those of you who like to it the trails.
10. Ambit3 Vertical HR
The Ambit3 Vertical HR is a great watch for runners looking to get the most out of their trail running. It contains a long lasting battery and is designed with comfort in mind, helping with comfort issues during long-term wear.
Read moreFeatures
The altimeter and barometer are key features to help trail runners, allowing to better prepare for changes in temperature and weather. Not to mention all the different goal-oriented athletic plans installed on the Ambit3 Vertical, allowing you to customize your regimen to your needs.
Ease of Use
The Ambit3 Vertical syncs easily with your phone and the app so you can be not only ensured of accurate measurements but that they will also be recorded.
Style
When it comes to style, this watch is not the most stylish option out there so if you like a sporty look then you will love this one.
Value
In terms of the best Suunto running watches, the Ambit3 Vertical HR is in the mid to low price range. While that is still a considerable amount of money, this watch comes with so many beneficial features that it makes the price feel like a real steal.
Use
It can also track the changes in altitude along your route, meaning you won't be caught by surprise and can properly adjust your pace and style. A run you can be prepared for means you won't be wasting time or energy, allowing you to go farther and longer.
Sources
- , Running 101: Training with a Heart Rate Monitor, Informational Running Website
- , How to Adjust Your Running for a Race at High Altitude, Informational Running Website
- , The Effects of Barometric Pressure on Joints and Muscles, Informational Fitness Website
