5 Best GPS Watch For Hiking

Having a quality GPS watch for hiking isn't just a "nice to have" accessory, it can be a necessity and even a life-saver.

A GPS watch isn’t just for telling you where you are and where you want to be. While the GPS signal may be the reason you bought the watch, there are other features that will be important. That can include technology that monitors temperature, high altitude, pressure and more.  

And when you’re looking at hiking watches, you’ll also want to watch for ones that match your budget, or maybe you also want to use it running or swimming. 

There’s a lot more to think about with GPS watches than simply the GPS. So, here’s what to consider when choosing the best GPS watch for hiking.

Global Positioning System (GPS): 

Sounds obvious that GPS is a consideration on a GPS hiking watch. But that doesn’t mean the technology is the same on every device. If you plan to hike alone, you’ll want to ensure the watch will determine your location accurately and relatively quickly. GPS watches can support location services of 1, 2 or 3 different satellites; if the technology supports all 3 satellites, the GPS will be more accurate and work more quickly.      

Extra GPS Data: 

You may want a GPS that tracks your progress during hikes. If so, a watch that shows distance traveled, duration of the hike, and hiking speed may be important to you. Some of the other data you can opt for include speed, distance, duration, and your total hiking ascent, if you want to keep track of your progress.

Compass:

Having a GPS doesn’t mean that’s the only feature on a GPS watch. Using GPS drains battery life. Sometimes the signal doesn’t work. So it’s important to have a watch with a digital compass as a backup. Some hiking watches have 2D compasses and some have 3D compasses. The 2D works when you hold the watch horizontally, and a 3D compass works however you hold the watch. Don’t forget to carry a map to go with the compass.

Altimeter:

An altimeter will measure air pressure and use this information to track your altitude. Since they use air pressure and not a satellite signal, they are more accurate than a GPS. This can be helpful when used in conjunction with a topographic map or when hiking in the mountains Your altimeter can help you navigate if your GPS signal is lost. 

Barometer:

A barometer measures the atmospheric pressure to forecast the weather, in particular incoming storms. Knowing whether a rain storm is on its way is useful when you do long hikes.

When considering the features of your GPS watch, the most basic ones are known as “ABC watches.” That’s because besides GPS, the basic ones include an altimeter, a barometer and a compass. You decide if you want extra features beyond these, whether you actually need them, and whether you know how to use them.

Here are some additional features for you to consider.

Thermometer:

For an accurate reading, you’ll have to take the watch off your wrist, but it can be helpful to know the outside temperature when deciding whether to add a layer of clothing, take one off, or make camp for the night.

Maps:

Choosing a GPS watch that has preloaded maps can be a bonus if the GPS is draining the watch’s battery or you can’t get a signal. Sometimes you download additional maps. The savvy hiker will stay safe by knowing how to use a map and a compass if the GPS fails.

Water Resistance or Waterproof:

If you plan to use your watch for swimming, you’ll want to ensure you get a waterproof watch, and understand how deep you can go for it to remain waterproof. Otherwise, water resistant may be sufficient, to ensure your watch keeps working in the rain.

Heart Rate Monitor:

Those who wish to use their outdoor watch for running, or just for improving their fitness or challenging themselves, may want one that displays and even records your heart rate. 

Connectivity:

Having wi-fi connectivity and/or bluetooth connectivity on your watch is a personal preference. If you want to connect your watch to your smartphone, you can download your hiking data, or use apps for various other functions. The same is true with bluetooth capacity, which also allows you to sync your watch with a smartphone, tablet or computer. It’s up to you, and with either option, having the ability to turn off connectivity can help with battery life.

Design and Durability:

This may be one of the most important considerations of your GPS hiking watch. Preferences like how it feels on your wrist, what the strap is like, and the overall durability of the watch and strap are all vital pieces of the decision about which hiking watch you want. A choice like a sapphire glass lens will make your watch more scratch resistant. Even the size of the watch can be important. If you have a small wrist, or plan to use it every day, you may want a lighter watch, which could sacrifice long-term durability.