The 5 favourite watches of runners: Results of the survey and experts' opinions
A recent survey of the Léman Running community has revealed which watches are most popular with running enthusiasts. Knowing each person's preferences helps to guide new buyers and to understand the most sought-after features and innovations. The survey, which attracted 165 votes, selected 37 different models, but only the top five were retained for detailed analysis.
| Watches | Votes | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Garmin 7 series | 45 | 27% |
| Garmin 6 series | 29 | 18% |
| I have no watch | 13 | 8% |
| Garmin Forerunner 245 | 8 | 5% |
| Polar Vantage V | 7 | 4& |
Tips for choosing a running watch
Runners often wonder which running watch to choose to optimise their training. Here are some answers to guide you in your choice.
It's common for people to recommend the watch they're wearing, but that doesn't necessarily help you make an informed choice. So I'm going to try and give you some objective advice.
First of all, it's important to know that it's not the watch that will make you a runner. Many people run without a watch and do very well. So why invest in a watch?
Investing in a running watch can be a personal pleasure, but it will also provide you with useful information such as :
- Your look
- Your heart rate
- Your route (if the watch is equipped with GPS)
- The ability to track your sessions and see your progress
How to choose your watch :
There are several leading brands on the market, including Garmin, Polar and Coros. Here are a few criteria to help you make your choice:
- The price : There's no need to invest astronomical sums in a watch. A cheaper watch can do the same job as a more expensive one. It's better to invest in a watch that suits your budget.
- Basic needs :
- Heart rate monitor : Useful for finding out your maximum heart rate percentages and seeing your work zones after your session.
- GPS : To record your kilometres and pace and plot your route.
The rest of the features can be considered gimmicks. Some watches offer built-in training plans, but you can just as easily use free apps for this.
Remember that running is not a fashion show, and a watch won't make you progress any faster. It can help you and reassure you, but if you don't have the means, you're still a runner. Our elders made progress with simple stopwatches long before the existence of connected watches.
Professional opinion
To add to these results, we interviewed a number of experts and elite racers to get their opinions on popular watches.
Answers from nakan.ch (the leading blog on connected watches)
What are the main criteria to consider when buying a running watch?
It is essential to ensure that the watch can record the desired values, that it is compatible with existing accessories, and that it has a battery life suited to the user's exercise. Integration with platforms or apps such as Strava or TrainingPeaks is also an important criterion. The latest watches often offer the best results in terms of GPS/GNSS accuracy. Other factors such as price, size, weight and screen technology should also be taken into account.
What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of the most popular watches?
Popular watches record everything, offering handy tools for tracking routes, measuring heart rate, and tracking recovery. However, the accuracy of the data measured can vary, and the algorithms used may not be relevant to all users, particularly women.
What are the latest innovations in running watches?
The latest innovations include AMOLED screens, better GPS chips and increased battery life. Running-specific functions have not evolved much in recent years.
How will connected watch technology evolve over the next few years?
Artificial intelligence will play a major role, offering more personalised advice and real-time feedback on training. Technological advances are mainly focused on health monitoring.
What do you think are the most underestimated but essential features?
Heart rate and pace data are crucial to progress in running. However, heart rate sensors on the wrist are not always reliable, and the instantaneous pace measured by GPS can be inaccurate in certain conditions. It is recommended that you use a belt to measure your heart rate and only rely on the instantaneous GPS pace in ideal conditions.
Answers from Jasper McDowell, elite athlete
What watch do you use and why?
I use the Coros Pace 2 for its GPS tracking accuracy, light weight and excellent battery life.
Which features do you find most useful for your daily training?
The carpet and track modes are the most useful. The carpet mode allows you to manually adjust your running speed, while the track mode calibrates against the athletics track for greater precision.
Can you share a story about how your watch helped or motivated you?
I'm always motivated by the accuracy of my watch and the possibility of analysing the data by comparing the distance indicated with that of an approved race. This allows me to rely on the pace indicated by my watch when I'm training.
Answers from Pierre Munier, triathlon coach
How can a connected watch improve a runner's performance?
A connected watch is essential for quantifying your training, tracking your pace and managing your progress. It monitors heart rate, pace, distance covered and other essential parameters.
What functions do you find essential in a watch for training and competitions?
Essential features include GPS for average pace and distance, compatibility with coaching applications and good battery life. A triathlon watch also needs to be compact to avoid being ripped off at the start of group swims.
Do you have any specific recommendations for different types of runner (beginners, intermediate, advanced)?
For beginners, it's crucial to choose a simple-to-use watch with basic functions such as heart rate and GPS. Intermediate runners can benefit from advanced features such as integrated training plans and performance analysis. Advanced runners, meanwhile, should opt for watches that offer highly accurate data and compatibility with various accessories and coaching applications.
How do I choose a watch for a triathlon?
For a triathlon, the watch needs to have built-in triathlon functionality, be water-resistant and have good battery life. It also needs to be lightweight and compact to avoid being in the way during the race.
If a coachee doesn't want to wear a watch, is it possible to coach them seriously?
It's possible to coach someone without a watch, but it's difficult to maintain this approach over the long term. The watch helps to quantify training sessions, which is essential for monitoring progress and adjusting training plans. Even athletes who train without a watch often end up wanting to know their training data.
| Features | Garmin 7 series | Garmin 6 series | Forerunner 245 | Polar Vantage V | Fenix 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GPS accuracy | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Autonomy | Very good | Very good | Good | Good | Very good |
| Accessories compatibility | High | High | Average | Average | High |
| App integration | Complete | Complete | Average | Average | Complete |
| Recovery monitoring | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | Light | Light | Very light | Medium | Medium |
| Approximate price (CHF) | 800 – 1000 | 600 – 800 | 300-400 | 500-700 | 400-600 |
Other watch models
In addition to the five most popular models, here are the other models selected by riders in our survey, in order of preference:
- Garmin Fenix 5, Garmin Epix Pro 2, Garmin Forerunner 955, Garmin Venu 2S,Garmin Forerunner 965, Coros Apex, Garmin Forerunner 35, Garmin Forerunner 945, Suunto 9, Garmin Vivo 4S, Suunto Traverse, Apple Watch Ultra, Garmin Forerunner 230, Forerunner 255S, Coros, Garmin Fenix 3, Garmin Epix Gen 2, Garmin Venu 3S, Coros Vertix 2, Polar Grit X Pro, Apple I Watch 10, Fitbit Versa 3, Suunto 5, Suunto Race, Garmin Forerunner 920XT, Garmin Enduro
The survey results show a clear preference for Garmin watches, particularly the 7 and 6 series, thanks to their advanced functions and reliability. The opinions of professionals confirm the importance of criteria such as GPS accuracy, autonomy and compatibility with coaching applications. Recent innovations and the prospects for technological evolution promise continued improvements for running watches, making these tools even more indispensable for runners. If you'd like some advice on your next purchase, then get in touch with our partner shops or on nakan.ch
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