As an ultra-runner myself, I know the importance of having a reliable watch during those grueling 100-mile races. Did you know that the average finish time for a 100-mile ultra is around 27 hours? That’s more than a full day of running! With such demanding conditions, you need a watch that can keep up with you every step of the way. In this article, we’ll explore the best watches for 100 mile ultra runners in 2024, considering factors like battery life, durability, and essential features that’ll help you crush your next race. Let’s dive in!
Key Features that make the Best Ultra Running Watches
When you’re gearing up for an ultra run, your watch becomes your trusty sidekick. But what should you look for in these high-tech wrist companions? Let’s break it down.
- Battery life is first priority and a game-changer. You don’t want your watch conking out halfway through your epic adventure, right? On my last 45 mile race, my watch died at 42 miles. Crushing! Look for watches with robust battery life and smart power management options. Some can last for days, even with GPS on!
- GPS accuracy is also key. You want to know exactly where you are and how far you’ve gone. The best ultra running watches offer pinpoint GPS tracking, so you can focus on the trail, not second-guessing your location.
- Durability is non-negotiable. Your watch needs to be tough enough to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at it. Water resistance is a must – you never know when you’ll encounter a stream crossing or a sudden downpour.
- Heart rate monitoring and other health metrics are super helpful for pacing yourself and monitoring your body’s response to the grueling challenge. Some watches even offer advanced metrics like blood oxygen levels and sleep tracking.
- Navigation features can be a lifesaver, especially in unfamiliar territory. Look for watches with built-in maps and route planning capabilities. It’s like having a trail guide on your wrist!
- Lastly, customizable data fields and displays let you see the info that matters most to you at a glance. Whether it’s pace, elevation, or time to next aid station, you can set it up just the way you like it.
Top 5 Best Watches for 100 Mile Ultra Races
Now, let’s talk about some top contenders for your ultra running companion.
Garmin Fenix 7X Solar
The Garmin Fenix 7X Solar is like the Swiss Army knife of ultra watches. It’s got incredible battery life, thanks to solar charging, and it’s packed with features. It’s a bit pricey, but you DO get what you pay for! It has lots an incredible extended battery life and top requested features.
| Watch Model | Battery Life (GPS Mode) | Price Range (USD) | Key Features | GPS Accuracy | Durability | Additional Features |
| Garmin Fenix 7X Solar | Up to 89 hours (with solar) | $899 – $999 | Solar charging, multi-GNSS support, HR monitoring, maps | High | Water-resistant, rugged (MIL-STD-810) | Music storage, contactless payments, smart notifications |
Coros Vertix 2
If battery life is your top priority, check out the Coros Vertix 2. This beast can last up to 140 hours in full GPS mode. Plus, it’s built like a tank – perfect for those gnarly trail conditions.
| Watch Model | Battery Life (GPS Mode) | Price Range (USD) | Key Features | GPS Accuracy | Durability | Additional Features |
| Coros Vertix 2 | Up to 140 hours | $699-$799 | Dual-GNSS, altimeter, compass, HR monitoring | Very High | Water-resistant (150m), durable | Blood oxygen monitoring, route planning, offline maps |
Suunto 9 Peak Pro
For a sleek and lightweight option, the Suunto 9 Peak Pro is hard to beat. It’s got all the advanced tracking features you need without weighing you down.
| Watch Model | Battery Life (GPS Mode) | Price Range (USD) | Key Features | GPS Accuracy | Durability | Additional Features |
| Suunto 9 Peak Pro | Up to 70 hours | $569-$699 | GPS, GLONASS, heart rate, altitude tracking | High | Water-resistant (100m), ultra-light | Wrist-based HR, blood oxygen monitoring, sleep tracking |
Polar Vantage V3
The Polar Vantage V3 is a great choice if you’re all about the training and recovery aspects. It offers in-depth insights into your performance and helps you optimize your training.
| Watch Model | Battery Life (GPS Mode) | Price Range (USD) | Key Features | GPS Accuracy | Durability | Additional Features |
| Polar Vantage V3 | Up to 85 hours | $599-$649 | HR monitoring, sleep tracking, recovery insights | High | Water-resistant (100m) | Training Load Pro, FuelWise, running power metrics |
Apple Watch Ultra 2
And for those who want a smartwatch that can handle ultras, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is worth considering. It’s got the ultra-running chops, plus all the smart features you’d expect from Apple.
| Watch Model | Battery Life (GPS Mode) | Price Range (USD) | Key Features | GPS Accuracy | Durability | Additional Features |
| Apple Watch Ultra 2 | Up to 36 hours | $799 – $849 | ECG, SpO2, HR monitoring, compass | High | Water-resistant (100m), titanium case | Smartwatch features, fall detection, emergency SOS |
Budget-Friendly Options for Best Watches for 100 Mile Ultra Runners
Not everyone can drop a small fortune on a watch, and that’s okay! There are some great budget-friendly options out there.
Garmin Forerunner 255
The Garmin Forerunner 255 offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s got most of the essential features you need for ultra running without the premium price tag.
| Watch Model | Battery Life (GPS Mode) | Price Range (USD) | Key Features | GPS Accuracy | Durability | Additional Features |
| Garmin Forerunner 255e | Up to 30 hours | $349 – $399 | GPS, GLONASS, multi-sport modes, HR monitoring | High | Water-resistant (50m) | Sleep tracking, VO2 max, body battery energy monitoring |
Coros Pace 3
Coros has been making waves with their affordable yet capable watches. The Coros Pace 3 is a prime example, offering impressive battery life at a wallet-friendly price point. This is the watch I’ve just purchased for my 100 miler!
| Watch Model | Battery Life (GPS Mode) | Price Range (USD) | Key Features | GPS Accuracy | Durability | Additional Features |
| Coros Pace 3 | Up to 50 hours | $199 – $249 | GPS, HR monitoring, interval training | High | Water-resistant (50m), rugged | Running power, track mode, night mode |
Amazfit T-Rex 2
If you want something that looks like it could survive the apocalypse, check out the Amazfit T-Rex 2. It’s rugged, has decent battery life, and won’t break the bank.
| Watch Model | Battery Life (GPS Mode) | Price Range (USD) | Key Features | GPS Accuracy | Durability | Additional Features |
| Amazfit T-Rex 2 | Up to 45 hours | $229 – $249 | GPS, GLONASS, barometer, HR monitoring | Moderate | Water-resistant (100m), military-grade durability | SpO2 monitoring, 100+ sports modes, sleep tracking |
How to Choose the Right Watch for Your Ultra Running Needs
Choosing the right watch is all about knowing your needs. Think about the specific requirements of your races. Are you doing mountain ultras with lots of elevation? You might want something with an altimeter and strong GPS.
Consider your training and recovery needs too. If you’re data-driven, you might appreciate a watch with more advanced metrics and training insights.
And of course, there’s the budget to think about. Remember, the most expensive watch isn’t always the best for you. Think about how long you plan to use it and what features you’ll actually use.
Tips for Maximizing Watch Performance During 100-Mile Ultras
Once you’ve got your watch, here are some tips to make the most of it during those epic 100-milers.
Battery management is crucial. Learn how to optimize your watch’s settings for extended battery life. This might mean turning off certain features or reducing the GPS ping frequency.
Many watches have power-saving modes. Get familiar with these and know when to activate them. You might switch to a lower-power mode during the night portion of your race, for example.
Lastly, make sure your watch fits comfortably. You’ll be wearing it for a long time, so it shouldn’t chafe or irritate your skin. Consider using a soft, breathable strap for those ultra-long efforts.
Remember, your watch is a tool to support your amazing feat of endurance. With the right choice and proper use, it’ll be your reliable partner from start to finish line!
In Conclusion
Finding the best watches for your 100 mile ultra is crucial for a successful race experience. Whether you opt for a high-end model like the Garmin Fenix 7X Solar or a more budget-friendly option like the Coros Pace 3, the key is to choose a watch that meets your specific needs and preferences. Remember, the right watch can be your trusted companion through those long hours on the trail, helping you track your progress, monitor your health, and stay on course. So, gear up with the perfect timepiece and get ready to conquer your next 100-mile challenge. Happy trails, and may your watch be as enduring as your spirit!
