There are watches for measuring fitness, watches for telling time, and watches that will assist you during hiking. They are not your standard fitness band for folks who want to work out in the gym or track their steps. They have the appearance of a smartwatch, but they are built for the outside environments from the inside out.
Hiking watches are designed to withstand the outdoors. Most have an altimeter to assess elevation, a barometer to monitor weather changes, and a digital compass to make you on track all the time. That’s why hiking timepieces are sometimes referred to as ABC watches, which stand for Altimeter, Barometer, and Compass. Some include maps for both on-road and off-road navigation. Some even link to an InReach satellite messenger to deliver texts and launch an SOS. These trekking watches are truly one-of-a-kind. Here are some of the models you can have when you plan to do something sweaty and adventurous.
1. Longines Master Collection
The Longines Master Collection combines the traditional grandeur and high craftsmanship that never ceases to surprise people who appreciate fine timepieces. Longines Watches are regarded for being classically beautiful while also being functional and dependable on any outdoor adventure. This Longines watch comes in a stainless steel case, silver “barleycorn” dial, and alligator strap.
2. Casio SGW-1000-1ACR
If you’d like an ABC watch without all of the intricate functions and high price tag of a wristwatch, consider the Casio SGW-1000-1ACR. The Casio SGW-1000-1ACR is a triple sensor ABC watch that upholds Casio’s legacy for tough and durable timepieces with a temperature sensor. Just note to remove the watch from your wrist so that you are monitoring the ambient temperature rather than your body temp. One disadvantage of the triple sensor system is that the detectors must be calibrated frequently to preserve their precision. It is a multi-step technique that requires time and experience to accomplish. Once you’ve mastered it, you’ll be able to calibrate like a pro before each hike.
3. Garmin Instinct
Garmin’s Instinct watch is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. It has all of the essential hiking functions, such as ABC sensors, breadcrumb navigation, and support for several global positioning satellite systems. The Garmin Instinct is the appropriate size, neither too small nor too large. It comes with a silicone strap that suits tightly around your wrist and can be replaced if it breaks. The Instinct, like most hiking watches, has a tough design with chemically toughened glass and a strong polymer case. The casing protrudes over the display, forming a bezel that shields the glass from scratches.
4. Suunto Ambit3 Peak
Suunto has prominence in producing high-quality watches with long battery lives, and the Ambit 3 Peak does not surprise. The battery life on the outdoor-focused watch is outstanding, with up to 200 hours of monitoring in low power mode. The Suunto Ambit 3 Peak is a huge watch due to its steel and glass construction. It’s a tough hiking wristwatch that appears substantial on your wrist. The Ambit 3 Peak sports a monochrome display that is somehow unappealing but bearable.
5. Rolex GMT-Master II 16710
An iconic timepiece built to withstand the elements. Rolex was able to provide the Pan-Am corporation with a watch that could display numerous time zones at the same time. Having a watch that kept accurate time was essential for pilots back then. This Rolex watch is especially useful for hikers on the road. When traveling, its stainless steel 40 mm case and bracelet are already remarkable and robust. It’s a tough watch on which you can rely if you’re hiking the Pennine Way in the UK or the Camino de Santiago de Compostela in Spain.
6. Bremont Boeing 100
Bremont Boeing 100 is a watch that pays tribute to the legendary aircraft manufacturer and was created for adventurers such as athletes and mountain climbers. The watch is made of aviation-grade Ti 6-4 titanium, a unique metal that is substantially more powerful than conventional titanium and is commonly utilized in the aerospace industry for airframes and engine components. Carbon fiber composites can be seen in the crown of each watch. It is driven by a caliber 13 1/4″ BE-54AE automated chronometer, has a 42-hour power reserve, and is water-resistant to 100m.
7. Panerai PAM 024
A Panerai watch, originally designed for the Italian military, is famed for its toughness and ability to survive the elements, exactly like this PAM 024. This watch has a 44 mm stainless steel case with a sapphire crystal, a black dial, a black rubber bracelet, and a water-resistance of 300 meters. It is propelled by caliber OP III and has a 42-hour power reserve.
8. IWC Double Chronograph Top Gun IW3799-01
The IWC Double Chronograph Top Gun IW3799-01 watch was chosen simply because it is so stylish. Its split-seconds function in an outside environment will astound you. It has a 46 mm ceramic case with sapphire crystal, a black dial, a textile black band, and a water resistance of 60 meters. This watch has a 44-hour power reserve and is powered by caliber 79230, making it ideal for a day or two of hiking in Trolltunga, Norway, or the Inca Trail, Peru.
9. Casio Pathfinder
The Casio Pathfinder is all about being outside. The watch combines the three basic ABC sensors with sunrise/sunset times to make the perfect long-distance hiking watch. Since it is not a smartwatch, you can receive up to 6 months of battery life on a single charge. The solar charger that surrounds the display is the most interesting feature. The charger can be used forever to fuel the wristwatch. The Pathfinder will keep powered as long as you are outside and using it. The Pathfinder is easy to use both during the day and at night because of its powerful illumination. Each button is properly labeled and simple to operate, even with gloved hands.
What’s More?
A hiking watch does more than just count your steps, which is why hikers prefer to wear them. Their principal function is navigation, which allows you to locate your current location as well as your intended route. Another reason hikers decide to include a watch in their gear is to keep track of the climate. Finally, hiking watches are excellent for tracking your fitness and wellbeing. Despite being geared for outdoor activities, most hiking timepieces include the same fitness functions as a smartwatch.
