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A good running watch can provide valuable information while you run{{DISPLAYTITLE:Best Running Watch, including Garmin, Polar, as well as automating your [[The importance & Suunto}}As of Jan 2018, I'm no longer actively reviewing watches, but this page will remain accessible as a training log|training log]]point in time reference. This article is The "what to look for in a concise guide to running watch" remains valid and I'd recommend understanding the best limitations of GPS for running watches available today. It does not attempt to cover every watch on the market, but it does call I'd recommend checking out some to avoid[https://thewirecutter. __NOTOC__=Summary=This is com/reviews/best-running-watch] for a summary fairly unbiased opinion, but you should read [[Stryd| my review of Stryd footpod]] as that remains one of my recommendationsthe most useful devices for measuring pace and distance. {| class=I would suggest avoiding "wikitablepseudo-marketing"!Watch!!Recommendation Reason!!With Heart Rate Monitor!!Without Heart Rate Monitor!!Accessory Heart Rate Monitor!!FootPod|-|Motorola Motoactv||If sites that proport to being detailed reviews without providing any critical thinking. A good litmus test is to check what they say about [[GPS Accuracy]] – if they say "it's all good" then you can live with the flaws, 'll know it's cheap and brilliantjust marketing. [[File:Best Watch.png|center|Not availablethumb|400px|[http://goThis flowchart is a simple guide to finding the right watch for you.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchMoto&url=http%3A%2F%2FwwwUse it as a starting point, and read the detailed reviews to understand if a watch is really right for you.amazon(Click for a larger version.com%2FMotorola-MOTOACTV-Sports-Watch-Player%2Fdp%2FB007C1KKW8 Motoactv)]] <br>$150||[http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xsWhat to Look for in a Running Watch=1&xcust=BestWatchHRM&url=http%3A%2F%2FwwwA modern running watch often has a huge number of features, but I think it's best to focus on its ability to answer these basic questions.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Premium-Heart-Monitor-Strap%2Fdp%2FB0029M3NSS Garmin HRM]||[http://go.fellrnr.com/* '''How far did I run?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ Garmin FootPod]|-|Garmin 310XT||The best watch<span style='color:\#FF0000'> </span>'' This is probably the key feature that most runners are looking for nearly every runner.||, and it requires good [[http://goGPS Accuracy]].fellrnrHow much the accuracy of a watch will impact your running will depend on the course.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch310W&url=http%3A%2F%2FwwwOverall, most watches do pretty well in straight lines, but suffer when things get twisty.amazonMy testing is a tough challenge for GPS, so it highlights the differences between the great and the appalling.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-Waterproof-Running-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB0025VKUPM Garmin 310XT with HRMWith the advent of the [[Stryd]]<br>$300||[http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch310N&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwwwfootpod that's far more accurate than GPS and doesn't require any calibration, Stryd support is now more important than GPS accuracy.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-310XT-Waterproof-Running%2Fdp%2FB0025VKW5K Garmin 310XT without HRM]<br>$250||[http://go.fellrnr.com/* '''How fast am I running?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchHRM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww''' While you can work out your average pace from your distance and time, you'll often want to know how fast you're currently running.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Premium-Heart-Monitor-Strap%2Fdp%2FB0029M3NSS Garmin HRMUnfortunately, GPS is rather poor at answering this question, so you need a [[Stryd]]||footpod, or use [[http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarminPace From A Footpod]] and a first-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ Garmin FootPodgeneration [[Footpod]]|-|Garmin 610||Smaller than the other recommendations.||[http://go.fellrnr.com/An accurate indication of your current pace is important for any training program that requires running at a specific pace, and for success in racing at many distances. * '''Where am I?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch610W&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww''' It's not unreasonable to expect a GPS enabled watch to tell you where you are or how to get back to the start.amazonNavigation varies from a simple compass needle showing the direction to return to the start to a display of the route you've just run or a preloaded course.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-Touchscreen-Watch-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB004XC3MXI Garmin 610 with HRM]<br>$400||* '''What's my cadence? '''A display of [[http://go.fellrnrCadence]] is a critical training tool and newer watches are able to use an internal accelerometer to provide Cadence without any accessories.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch610N&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-610-Touchscreen-Watch%2Fdp%2FB004WONCQE Other watches may need a [[Footpod]] or the newer Garmin 610 without HRM]<br>$350||[http://gowatches can use the running dynamics heart rate strap.fellrnrA Cadence alert will help you stay in the right cadence range, and is a useful feature.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchHRM&url=http%3A%2F%2FwwwThere are several additional features to you could consider, though I'd argue none are as important as the above questions.amazon* '''Weight.com%2FGarmin-Premium-Heart-Monitor-Strap%2Fdp%2FB0029M3NSS Garmin HRM]||[http://go''' None of these devices weigh enough to have a noticeable impact on running performance, but the weight can be noticeable.fellrnr* '''Size.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww''' The size of these devices varies widely, and the larger devices can feel a little bulky, especially if you have a smaller wrist.amazonI've provided the size as the volume in cubic centimeters to give a single number to compare.com%2FGarmin-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ Garmin FootPod]|-|Garmin 910XT||An improved version of the 310XT* '''Waterproofing.<br>Better for swimmers & adds an altimeter''' Even if you don't swim, having good waterproofing is important to prevent your watch being destroyed by the rain or sweat.||* '''[[http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-910XT-GPS-Enabled-Heart Rate Monitor%2Fdp%2FB005T0Z9CU Garmin 910XT with HRM]<br>$450||].''' [[http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch&url=http%3A%2F%2FwwwHeart Rate]] is important information when training, though it is important to understand the limitations of heart rate based training.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-910XT-GPS-Enabled-Sport%2Fdp%2FB005SPCJ74 Garmin 910XT without HRMHaving a [[Heart Rate Monitor]]<br>$400||that will record your heart rate is particularly valuable for evaluating your training. ** [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchHRM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Premium-[Optical Heart-Monitor-Strap%2Fdp%2FB0029M3NSS Garmin HRMRate Monitoring]]||[http://gois more convenient, but does not work very well.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ Garmin FootPod] ** While the chest strap based monitoring is remarkably reliable, you can have problems with chaffing and poor reception in some situations, but there are [[Fixing Heart Rate Monitor Problems|-|}=What to look Fixes for=Heart Rate Monitor Problems]]. There are several features * '''Data Upload.''' The ability to consider when looking for record your workout and store it in a runners watch. * GPS provides an easy measure of how far you've run, which is critical for your training. While it log such as [[Dailymile]] or [[SportTracks]] is possible to map out a run afterwards, this tends to be tedious and is typically less accurate than GPSvital. ** GPS is easy All of the recommended watches here have that ability. I'd strongly advise even a new runner to use and accurate enough for most running, but it is not accurate enough for things like interval training. ** The errors in GPS average out store their data so that they can look back over a run, but they cause a problem when trying the months and years to display current paceunderstand their progress. * A [[FootPod]] watch that can be used upload to provide [[Cadence]] and in some watches it can also provide pace and distancea PC makes recording your workouts much easier.* '''Battery Life. Unlike GPS, [[FootPod]]''' How much battery life you need depends on how long you run for. It's need best to be calibrated to provide accurate pace/distancehave a watch that will last quite a bit longer than your longest run. * [[Heart Rate]] is important information when trainingI list the claimed battery life in my table, though it is important to understand along with the limitations results of heart rate based trainingmy testing. Having a [[Heart Rate Monitor]] that will record your heart rate is particularly valuable for evaluating your trainingFor my tests, I do everything to maximize battery life without compromising GPS accuracy. The heart rate strap that goes across your chest can be intrusive That means normal GPS sampling frequency, but no backlight, no map display, and sometimes can chafeno button presses. Polar heart rate monitoring is far better than the Garmin equivalentI also ensure Bluetooth, WAAS and GLONAS are disabled. I don't test devices that I've had for a while, as the battery tends to degrade over time. * '''Charges On The ability to record your workout Run'''. For ultrarunners, one option to use a watch for longer than the built in battery lasts is to charge the watch while running. This involves connecting the cable and store it in carrying a training log such as [[Dailymile]] or [[SportTracks]] is vitalUSB battery pack. All of the recommended It's cumbersome, but it can work. A value of "Yes" means that the watch will accept charge while recording and displaying as usual. Some watches here have that ability. I'd strongly advise even a new runner to store their data so that they can look back over "yes" with a caveat, such as the display not functioning or difficulty in connecting the cable while wearing the months and years to understand their progresswatch.* An altimeter will measure asterisk after the yes indicates a Garmin device that needs to be set with the atmospheric pressure and give you altitude. This is more accurate than GPS, but will require calibration USB mode to adjust for weather related pressure changes"Garmin" not "Mass Storage". ==Garmin Heart Rate Monitoring==The [[Heart Rate Monitor|Heart Rate Monitoring]] A value of Garmin watches "no" means that charging is not as reliable as impossible. * '''Altimeter. '''An altimeter will measure the Polar systemsatmospheric pressure and give you altitude. This is more accurate than GPS, but there are will require calibration to adjust for weather related pressure changes.* '''[[Garmin Heart Rate MonitoringFirstbeat|things to can do to improve thisTraining Effect]].=Brilliant''' This is a measure of how hard a training run is as a numeric value of 1.0 to 5.0, but flawed – Motorola Motoactv=The Motorola based on an analysis of [[http://goHeart Rate Variability]].fellrnr* '''Heart Rate Variability'''.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchMoto&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FMotorola-MOTOACTV-Sports-Watch-Player%2Fdp%2FB007C1KKW8 MotoactvThere is a growing interest in the possibility of using [[Heart Rate Variability]] is a revolutionary running watch(HRV) to evaluate training stress. While only one device will display HRV, using a color touch screen, GPS and including an MP3 playerthere are several that will record HRV for later analysis. It is more like a smartphone than a traditional * '''GPS watch, Pre-cache'''. Some newer watches will download the predicted positions of the Motoactv is brilliant, but it is also flawedGPS satellites for faster initial acquisition. When it was originally introduced at $250This pre-cache works remarkably well, these flaws were too severe for it and the data is usually downloaded automatically when the watch is connected to compete with the Garmin alternativesinternet. Now the prices has dropped to under $150However, the Motoactv data is worthy of consideration. If you can live with each of these four flawsonly valid for a few days, then so after that time the Motoactv is a great buy. (See device will fall back to the cons section usual approach of scanning for more details on eachsatellites.)* =Comparison=Here'''Poor water resistance. '''Don't buy s a table of these features for each of the Motoactv is you want to swim or if you're likely to forget to check the covers before your runwatches I recommend (all have GPS). * '''Limited battery life{{:Best Running Watch-table}}=GPS Accuracy=[[File:GPS Accuracy. '''If you run for less than 3 hours, you're fine with png|none|thumb|600px|An infographic of [[GPS Accuracy]] of running watches. The top right corner represents the Motoactvmost accurate watches. If you run for between 3 and 6 hours then think carefully. If you run for more than 6 hours, look elsewhere(This graphic uses ISO 5725 terminology. )]]=Using a Smartphone=* ''Main article: [[Running With A Smartphone]]'No usable 'current pace' display.''' Don't try to use the Motoactv to keep you on pace.* '''Difficulty uploading workouts to a training log.''' If you want to keep an automated training log (and you should), the Motoactv will be hard work. {| class="wikitable" |- valign="top"|[[File:Motoactv.jpeg|none|thumb|200px|The Motoactv with the watch strap (it's available as with a clip instead).]]|[[File:MotoactvCovers.JPG|none|thumb|200px|The covers for the USB port and the headphones have to be in place for waterproofing. The headphone socket cover is tiny and easy to lose.]]|[[File:MotoactvGarminDisplay.JPG|none|thumb|200px|The display of the Motoactv is wonderful at night. This comparison with the 310XT gives some idea of the difference, but this is with the 310XT illuminated, which only lasts a few seconds.]]|}==Motoactv Pros==* With the recent price reduction the Motoactv is less than $150, which is far cheaper than any comparable product. * The Motoactv is easy to use, and my family prefers using the Motoactv over Garmin products. * The color display is nice, and the simple monochrome display of other devices seems stale and dated by comparison. * The combination of a touch screen and physical buttons works quite well. The screen works when wet, though I found some occasional problems when there was just a drop of sweat rather than a soaking. I also found that heavy rain drops may act as screen presses, which is annoying. * I love having a continually lit display for [[Running in the Dark]]. You can press a button on a Garmin to illuminate the display, but the Motoactv is much better. * The inclusion of an MP3 player is nice, and it claims to learn what songs make your run harder. Personally I prefer using a separate MP3 player, but having the one device that does both has some appeal. * The Motoactv will display a true map of the area, showing the street layout, which is a huge improvement over the breadcrumb display of the Garmin watches. If you could upload a route then this would be great for running in a new city. I found this feature wonderful when running in Krakow, Poland, and it allowed me to take circular routes rather than sticking to out and backs. * The dimensions of the Motoactv are more pleasing than the Garmin 310XT/910XT. It still has a large display, but it is much thinner. ==Motoactv Cons==* The Motoactv is 'water resistant' not waterproof. There are many reports of water damage and Motorola refusing to repair them. However, there are also many reports of using the Motoactv in torrential rain, which I've done myself. I suspect the issue is that the Motoactv has small covers for the headphone jack and the USB port, and if they are not in place, water can get in and destroy the watch. * The battery life of the Motoactv is quite poor compared with other devices. If you use Bluetooth headphones and use the default setting the battery is dead in 3 hours. With no Bluetooth and the 'extended battery' setting it should last for 6 hours. This is probably plenty for most runners, but you have to remember to shut it down after each run or plug it in. If you leave it unplugged and not shutdown the battery will run down fast. (To shutdown, press and hold the power button, then follow the menu.)* Like any GPS watch, the display of your current pace varies too much to be of any use. This is an intrinsic problem with GPS, and I found the Motoactv was out by up to a minute/mile. This is why I recommend the Garmin 310XT/910XT/610 as they can display your current pace from the [[FootPod]] while still using the GPS for everything else. You can use the 'lap average pace' to get a reasonable idea of your pace, but if you need to hit a specific pace for a training run or a race, you're better off with one of the Garmin 310XT/910XT/610 and a [[FootPod]].* The Motoactv will upload your workout to Motoactv.com via a wireless network, so you don't even need a PC, which is a great idea. The problem is that it's hard to upload your workouts to any other training log. You can download each workout as a CSV file and upload it to another tool, but that sometimes requires going via a conversion program. * The Motoactv will support a [[FootPod]], including the [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchFootpod&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Foot-Pod-Retail-Packaging%2Fdp%2FB00264GKVQ Garmin FootPod], and it can use the FootPod to show your pace/distance. This only works if you select to run outdoors, which turns the GPS off. The bigger problem is that there is no way of calibrating the Foodpod, so there is usually an error (for me it was out by 7%). The Motoactv does have an internal sensor that can be calibrated, but this does not work for the FoodPod. The Motoactv will use the FootPod to display your [[Cadence]], but I found the Cadence display to vary widely; my Garmin would show a steady cadence value when the Motoactv was swinging widely.

=The best value - Garmin 310XT=The best value watch for most runners is currently the [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch310W&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-Waterproof-Running-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB0025VKUPM Garmin 310XT with HRM]. It is available Most smartphones have a GPS built in and support various applications that allow them to function as the [http://wwwsports watches.rei.com/product/791092/garmin-forerunner-310xt-gps-fitness-monitor 310XT 'Fitness Monitor'] without the These phones can have remarkable levels of [[Heart Rate MonitorGPS Accuracy]] for $50 lessas well as many other advantages. The [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xsWatches for Ultrarunning=1&xcust=BestWatch&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-910XT-GPS-Enabled-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB005T0Z9CU Garmin 910XT] is better, but not worth the extra cost Choosing a watch for most runners. [[File:Garmin310XTan ultramarathon requires some tradeoffs and there's no simple answer.jpg|thumb|none|200px|Garmin 310XT]]==310XT Pros==* The 310XT main factor is one of the most advanced battery life, as few watches available, but is no harder for a beginner can be relied on to use lost more than most alternatives20 hours with GPS active. (It's easier than the 4xx series Garmin watches.)* The 310XT is great value for money at I think there are three main approaches to this price level. problem:* A great feature is the ability to use the optional # [[FootPodCharge On The Run]] . This is a little cumbersome as you typically have to display your current pace while using GPS for overall pace, distance carry a battery pack and route. Only the 310XTan adapter, 910XT and Garmin 610 can do thisor at least have them in your drop bag. * Not all watches support [[Charge On The GPS is more accurate than earlier watchesRun]], and has only a faster startup time. (It uses the SiRFstar III with Instafix, one subset of the latest GPS chipsets)* The housing is fully waterproof (to 50m/160ft), them do so running in the rain is no problemwith reasonable convenience. * Connection to a PC is wireless, using a USB adapter# Use two watches. This is less hassle also rather inconvenient and expensive, though you may be able to use to cheaper watches rather than any of the other options I've triedone more expensive watch. * The display is big enough to show four readings. I often display current pace, average pace for For the current lapsecond part of your run, average pace for the run second watch won't have your full time and either heart rate or distance. * You can upload courses and display them. This is great when running somewhere unfamiliar. * There are several optional extras for the 310XT, including so you'll need to make a note from the already mentioned [[FootPod]] first watch and heart rate strapdo some math. For cyclists there (Doing math late in an ultra is also a [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Speed-Cadence-Bike-Sensor%2Fdp%2FB000BFNOT8 speed/cadence sensor] and as difficult as it works with various power sensorssounds. )* The vibration alert works nicely# Extended battery life. I often run with the 310XT set A number of watches allow you to record a lap every mile, and it will vibrate as well as beep. ==310XT Cons==* Some people find reduce the 310XT GPS accuracy to be rather large, and it is much larger than a normal watch. * The gain greater battery life is good . This lack of accuracy can be offset by using the Stryd Footpod for about 16-the first part of the race (they claim that Stryd lasts 20 hours, which is enough for most people. Ultrarunners doing 100 mile or longer races will find this a problem, though it ) Another approach is possible to recharge it while in use. * For races where turn the GPS track is not important, you can extend the battery life by turning off the GPS receiver entirely and use the rely on a first generation [[FootPodFootpod]], in which case many watches will last several days. After 12 hours of running I still had 85% While the accuracy of the battery left. If you're running on a reasonable smooth surface, the first gen [[FootPodFootpod]] is often more accurate can be better than GPS. =The Best – Garmin 910XT=The [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-910XT-GPS-Enabled-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB005T0Z9CU Garmin 910XT with HRM] is an improved version of , the 310XT, but it's about $100 more expensive. It can record laps when swimming, and is better at recording altitude, and it's recommended Footpod does not do so well if you need those features. If you don't need them, then the 310XT is better value. (It's available without the re taking [[Heart Rate MonitorWalking Breaks]] as [http://goor running on twisty single track.fellrnrAnd some runners will want navigation.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-910XT-GPS-Enabled-Sport%2Fdp%2FB005SPCJ74 Garmin 910XT without HRM].) Nearly all of the pros and cons of the 310XT apply I see three main approaches to the 910XTI wish I could provide, simple, so I won't repeat them here. [[File:Garmin-910xt.jpg|thumb|none|200px|Garmin 910XT]]==910XT Pros==* The 910XT can record swimmingclear cut advice, but it does this with an accelerometer rather than GPSunfortunately things are not so easy. You have 'll need to tell the 910XT think about how long the pool is, but it will detect each lap, as well as your stroke. * The 910XT has a barometric altimeter, which is far more accurate at recording altitude changes than GPS.==910XT Cons==* The biggest downside you'll be running for most people is the price, which is $100 more than the 310XT.* While the 910XT is slightly slimmer than the 310XT, it is still rather largefeatures that are important to you, and it is how much larger than a normal watchcompromise you can live with. =Smaller – Garmin 610=The [http[File://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatch610W&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarminCharge On The Run -Forerunner-Touchscreen-Watch-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB004XC3MXI Garmin 610 with HRM] is a new watch from Garmin that is smaller, but overcomes many of the issues seen in the 4xx range Fenix3 (see below2). [[File:Garmin610.jpg|center|thumb|none|200px|Garmin 610[[Charge On The Run]] is an option for ultras.]]==610 ProsBattery Life==* Smaller than The claimed battery lives don't hold up in the 310XT/305/205 and closer to the size of a traditional watchreal world, with some watches going longer, others much shorter. * Like If you want the 310XTmaximum battery life, it can use you have to avoid the optional [[FootPod]] to display your current pace while using GPS for overall pacebacklight, distance and route. Only the 310XTuse of map/course displays, 910XT and 610 can do this (so far)don't press the buttons unless you have to. * The touchscreen interface works with gloves and in the rainIn my testing, unlike most touchscreens found on phones or media players. * Good GPS accuracy (uses the SiRF SiRFstarIV with the Instant Fix II)==610 Cons==* The longest battery life that's available with GPS on is rather short. It is claimed to provide 8 30 hours, but based on experience with other Garmin devices, the actual live may be quite a bit less. This is likely to cause an issue for slower marathon runners or ultrarunners. * The price is quite high[[Epson SF-510]], listing at $350 or $400 including the heart rate monitor. * Not the range of accessories that 24 hours with the 910XT/310XT has, such as power meter for cycling. * No display of course maps. =If you need Heart Rate Variability – Polar RS800CX=[[File:PolarRS800CX.jpg|thumb|none|200px|Polar RS800CXV800]]I used Polar systems for many years and their quality is great. However, I find the convenience of 22 hours with the [[Garmin GPS systems to be superior and I would no longer recommend Fenix 3]], 19 with the [http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchRS800&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FPolar-RS800CX-Heart-Rate-Monitor%2Fdp%2FB003G3YBR6 Polar RS800CX] unless you need a first rate [Heart Rate MonitorGarmin 920XT]] that will display , and 17 with the [[Heart Rate VariabilityGarmin Epix]]. ==RS800CX Pros==* Heart rate monitoring is far better For ultras lasting less than with Garmin. The RS800CX will even record each individual heart beat for analyzing [[Heart Rate Variability]]20 hours, such as 50 miles or 100 Km, though few people will ever make use you have plenty of that feature. * The choice and battery life of the RS800CX is measured in months not hours. This should not be an issue for most runnersconstrain you too much.* The RS800CX is For 24 hour races or 100 mile races where you expect a finish in the size of a conventional watch, and because of 24-30 hour range the long battery life, it can be used as one.* Includes a barometer for altitude (GPS has very poor accuracy for altitude). * There is a Polar [[FootPodEpson SF-510]], is worth considering though the [http://gobattery life is one of its few good points.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcustNavigation=BestWatchS3P&url=http%3A%2F%2FwwwFor some ultras (and shorter trail runs), navigation is a problem.amazon.com%2FPolar-91039283-S3-Stride-Sensor%2Fdp%2FB005RXZ1YU Polar S3+ Stride Sensor], which works nearly as well as I've been lost on the Garmin equivalent, but occasional race and it's larger and more expensivea horrible experience. * Fully waterproof.==RS800CX Cons==* ItEven when I's Expensive at around $370.* While ve been on course, the RS800CX doubts and stress of worrying can support GPS, it requires [http://gobe an enormous drain.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchGPS5&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FPolar-G5-My first GPS-Sensor-Set%2Fdp%2FB005F5J3JY watch was purchased so that I'd have an add-on GPS box] you strap to your arm, which is a rather poor solution. The GPS has a battery life outline of only 20 hours the course I was running and requires rechargingthere were many races where I was glad of its comforting conformation. * There is no display Remember that using the navigation features of course mapsthese watches will dramatically reduce their battery life.* This is a The [[Heart Rate MonitorGarmin Fenix 5X]] and it objects if you try to use it without the monitor.[[File:PolarG3.jpg|thumb|none|200px|The rather clunky GPS and arm bandGarmin Epix]]=Not Recommended - Garmin 405/405CX/410=The Garmin 4xx series watches use have a touch sensitive bezel which does not work well with gloves or when wetdisplay that shows full color maps, so for navigation, nothing else comes close. The (Well, the [[http://go.fellrnr.com/?id=35454X937677&xs=1&xcust=BestWatchG410&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FGarmin-Forerunner-GPS-Enabled-Sports-Watch%2Fdp%2FB0046BWRUK Garmin 410Leikr] has an 'improved bezel', but there are [http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2011/01/look-at-new-garmin-fr410-touch-bezel.html still problems]. I also see more people struggling at the start of marathons with the 4xx watches than all the other devices combined.=Not Recommended - Nike+ Sportwatch=There is a lot to like about the Nike+ Sportwatcheven better, but it has one weakness that I believe is unacceptablea short battery life. ) * The software for the Nike+ does not allow you to use the data from your runs in anything other than the Nike web site. A [[The importance of a training log|training log is importantGarmin 310XT]], and while beginners may not need one[[Garmin 910XT]], buying a watch that prevents you from accessing your data in the future is too limiting. The Motoactv is a far more capable watch than the Nike+[[Garmin 920XT]], though it too has some flaws. =Not Recommended – [[Garmin 305/205=The 305/205 are the earlier generations Fenix 3]], [[Suunto Spartan Ultra]] will show an outline of Garmin GPS watches, your run (breadcrumbs) and occasionally they can be found quite cheap. However, with the price drop of the Motoactv, these Garmin watches no longer offer reasonable value for moneyallow you to load a course outline to follow.