Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just beginning your journey to marathon-level sprints, you’ve probably figured out that a runner’s needs include more than just a good pair of shoes. If you want to make the most of your running experience, you need the right uniform. One of the most valuable additions to any runner’s get up is a good running watch. Seriously, it’s a game-changer.
If you’re hunting for a running watch that will meet your needs and help you achieve your goals, it’s going to take some research. Before selecting the first model that comes up from your “runners watches” Google search, you’ll want to consider the features, level of durability, and battery life that would best suit your needs.
What makes a running watch a running watch?
While running watches are a type of sports watch, their features are specifically designed to meet the needs and enhance the performance of avid runners. Before you find yourself feeling overwhelmed at the plethora of options available in the sports watch market, it’s important to know what to look for.
What are the key features of a good running watch?
1. Time Monitoring
This one might go without saying. Time is, after all, the paramount purpose of every watch. However, runners require specific time management functions. Some running watches will monitor the time of your workout, while others come with stopwatches that can be used for keeping track of laps and miles.
2. GPS Tracking
One key component of a quality running watch is its GPS tracking system. This allows runners to accurately track and measure route, pace, and distance. In addition, some running watches with GPS capabilities can also offer navigational services. Serious runners have found that these features allow them to better plan and execute the most effective route, review accurate, detailed performance data, and reach their running goals with greater ease and success.
3. Pace Tracking
Running watches that feature pace and distance tracking abilities allow runners to receive real-time performance feedback. These metrics provide everything you need to know about how fast you’re going and how much distance you’ve covered so that you can easily make the adjustments needed to reach your training goals.
4. Heart Rate Monitoring
Runners are some of the most health-conscious people you’ll meet. Tracking your heart rate before, during, and after a run allows you to ensure that you’re pushing your body in just the right way. Sometimes, you’ll realize you can push yourself a little harder. Other times, you might realize it’s time to slow down and take a breather. As a runner, it’s a good idea to set a target heart rate zone. The heart rate monitoring system on your runner’s watch can help you stay within that zone.
5. Durability
Unless your running takes place strictly on a treadmill, you’ve probably found yourself running in a variety of environments and weather conditions. Many runners are so dedicated to their training that they’re out there, rain or shine. Others love to participate in cross-country, mud runs, or even marathons where bystanders can douse the runners in brightly colored paint! As you can imagine, these activities require a watch that can take the hot, the cold, the mud, the paint, and everything in between. Quality running watches are built with materials that can take a solid beating, are water resistant, and can hold up under extreme temperatures.
6. Extended Battery Life
Nobody wants to find themselves on the twentieth mile of a marathon only to discover that their watch has died on them. Because many runners train and race for long durations of time, it’s crucial to choose a watch with a generous amount of battery life you can depend on.
7. Comfort
Most of us have had to suffer through the discomfort of an ill-fitting or poorly-designed watch. Runners have better things to worry about than excessive chafing and sweating and need something that isn’t going to weigh them down or get in their way. Comfort is key. So, if you want to optimize both comfort and performance, you may want to consider the following:
- Weight and size: Watches come in various sizes and shapes. Be sure to consider more than style when you are choosing a watch for running. Size and weight may be more noticeable to you when you are running. You should be sure to compare your wrist measurements with the product specs before purchasing, as watch band lengths can vary.
- Material: Some watch and watch band materials, like leather, look great but aren’t very comfortable for runners. In addition, other watch band materials might lead to excess sweating. Popular materials for cases and bands include silicone, rubber, and nylon.
On Your Marks, Get Set, Go!
Now that you know the ins and outs of running watches, you’re ready to find your perfect match. Take some time to evaluate your lifestyle as a runner along with your performance and comfort goals, and make sure your watch of choice has all the features you need to win big. With a quality running watch, there’s no telling how far you’ll go.
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Infographic
Running watches are designed for avid runners to enhance their performance. Before feeling overwhelmed by the options, knowing what to look for is important. Read on in this infographic.
