Finding the right smartwatch can transform how you train, recover, and perform. For athletes, a dedicated fitness watch isn’t just a convenience—it’s a training tool that tracks progress, monitors health metrics, and provides the data needed to improve. The market has grown significantly, with options ranging from GPS-focused running watches to multisport devices packed with advanced biometrics. This guide covers the best smartwatches for athletes in 2024, with specific models suited for different sports, budgets, and performance goals.
Before diving into the recommendations, here’s how we evaluated these devices. We spent hundreds of hours testing fitness-focused smartwatches across multiple dimensions that matter most to athletes.
The testing process involved wearing each watch during varied training sessions including road running, trail running, cycling, swimming, and strength training. We assessed GPS accuracy by comparing recorded routes against known distances. Battery life was measured during real workouts, not just manufacturer claims. We evaluated heart rate accuracy against chest strap monitors during high-intensity intervals and steady-state cardio. Sleep tracking was compared across multiple nights, and we examined the companion apps for usability, data export capabilities, and integration with third-party platforms like Strava, TrainingPeaks, and Nike Run Club.
We also considered durability: water resistance ratings, screen protection, and build quality that can withstand sweat, rain, and occasional impacts. Finally, we weighed the value proposition—whether the price matches the features and performance delivered.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the most versatile premium option for athletes who want one watch to handle nearly every sport. Apple’s second-generation adventure watch brings meaningful improvements over the original while maintaining the rugged design that outdoor enthusiasts appreciate.
The 49mm titanium case houses a bright 3000-nit display that’s easily readable in direct sunlight—a critical feature for outdoor athletes. The Action button, customizable for starting workouts, marking laps, or activating the flashlight, proves genuinely useful during training. Battery life has improved; you get around 36 hours in normal use and up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode, addressing one of the original Ultra’s few weaknesses.
For multisport athletes, the Ultra 2 offers a triathlon mode that automatically switches between swimming, cycling, and running. The dual-speaker system produces loud audio cues during workouts, and the Precision GPS delivers excellent route tracking. The depth gauge and water temperature sensors make this genuinely useful for open water swimming.
The trade-off is weight and size—this is a large watch that may feel bulky for everyday wear or during activities where a smaller profile matters. It also requires an iPhone, so Android users need to look elsewhere. At $799, it’s a significant investment, but you’re getting a device that excels across nearly every athletic discipline while functioning as a full-featured smartwatch.
“The Apple Watch Ultra 2 isn’t just the best Apple Watch for athletes—it’s the most capable multisport wearable I’ve tested. The battery improvements make all-day adventures genuinely achievable.”
Garmin has long dominated the running watch segment, and the Forerunner 965 represents the pinnacle of their road-running focused line. This lightweight titanium watch delivers advanced metrics without the bulk and complexity of full multisport devices.
The 1.4-inch AMOLED display is a significant upgrade from previous Forerunner models, offering crisp visuals and intuitive touch navigation alongside the traditional button interface. At around 52 grams, it won’t weigh you down during long marathons or tempo runs. The battery lasts up to 23 days in smartwatch mode and about 31 hours in GPS mode—solid for ultramarathon training.
What sets the Forerunner 965 apart is its running dynamics. It tracks vertical oscillation, ground contact time, cadence, and stride length in real-time. These metrics help runners identify inefficiencies and reduce injury risk. The training readiness score combines sleep, recovery, and stress data to tell you whether you’re primed for a hard workout or need an easy day.
The mapping capabilities are worth mentioning. Built-in topo maps and course routing help runners explore new routes with confidence. Multi-band GPS improves accuracy in challenging environments like dense urban areas or tree-covered trails.
The price point of $599 positions it as a premium running-specific option. If you primarily run and want the best data available without paying for features you’ll never use, the Forerunner 965 is the clear choice.
Not every athlete needs to spend $800 on a fitness watch. The Garmin Forerunner 265 delivers impressive functionality at a more accessible price point, making it our pick for best value in 2024.
This marks the first time Garmin brought their bright AMOLED display to the mid-range Forerunner line. The 1.3-inch screen is vivid and easy to read during workouts. Despite the touchscreen, physical buttons remain for reliable operation during sweaty workouts or wet conditions.
The Forerunner 265 tracks the essential metrics runners care about: GPS accuracy, heart rate variability, VO2 max estimates, training status, and recovery recommendations. It includes built-in sports apps covering running, cycling, swimming, strength training, and more. The 13-day battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 24 hours in GPS mode exceeds what many competitors offer at double the price.
Sleep tracking with sleep score and HRV monitoring provides insight into recovery. Morning report gives you a daily snapshot of training readiness. The incident detection and assistance features add safety for solo runners.
At $349, the Forerunner 265 punches well above its weight. You get genuine Garmin training science without the premium pricing of the 965 or Fenix line.
If battery anxiety is a problem, the COROS APEX 2 Pro deserves serious consideration. This watch delivers extraordinary battery performance that even Garmin struggles to match in this price category.
The APEX 2 Pro offers up to 45 days of continuous use in smartwatch mode. In full GPS mode, you get 75 hours—meaning you could run a 100-mile ultramarathon and still have battery left. Even with dual-frequency GPS tracking enabled, you still get about 38 hours. These numbers are virtually unmatched.
Beyond battery, COROS has built a capable training platform. The watch includes detailed maps with route navigation, offline music storage, and comprehensive workout tracking. The optical heart rate sensor performs well during most activities, though it’s not quite as accurate as Garmin’s latest sensors during high-intensity intervals.
The design is rugged with a titanium bezel and sapphire glass. Water resistance to 10 ATM means it’s fine for swimming and diving. At 42 grams, it’s lighter than many competitors while maintaining solid build quality.
The companion app has improved significantly and now offers robust training analysis. COROS provides daily free structured workouts through their COROS Training app, which adds value for self-coached athletes.
The trade-off is that COROS lacks some ecosystem integrations that Garmin and Apple offer, and third-party app support is more limited. But if battery life is your priority, this is the clear winner at $499.
Swimmers have specific needs that general fitness watches often fail to address adequately. The Garmin Swim 2 is purpose-built for pool and open water swimming, making it the best choice for athletes who spend significant time in the water.
The Swim 2 automatically detects stroke type, tracks distances, and calculates SWOLF scores (a measure of swimming efficiency). Pool length customization works seamlessly—you just set your pool size once. For open water swimming, the watch uses GPS to track distance and route.
Beyond basic metrics, the Swim 2 provides underwater heart rate monitoring using the sensor on your wrist. This data helps swimmers train in appropriate heart rate zones without stopping to check a chest strap. The critical swim speed feature identifies your optimal training pace for different workout types.
At 42 grams and with a comfortable silicone band, the Swim 2 won’t distract you during long pool sessions. The always-on display shows essential metrics without requiring you to turn your wrist awkwardly.
The trade-off is that this is a swimming-focused device. While it tracks basic running and cycling metrics, it doesn’t compete with dedicated multisport watches for those activities. It’s also an older model now, though Garmin continues to sell and support it. At around $299, it’s an excellent dedicated swimming tool.
The Garmin Fenix line has long been the gold standard for serious multisport athletes, and the Fenix 7 Pro continues that tradition with meaningful improvements. This is the watch serious triathletes, adventure racers, and outdoor enthusiasts choose when they want the most capable device available.
The Fenix 7 Pro features a MIP (memory-in-pixel) solar-charging display that extends battery life significantly in bright conditions. The sapphire crystal glass and titanium bezel ensure durability through years of rough use. This watch is built to accompany you on mountaineering expeditions, ironman distances, and everything between.
The training features are comprehensive: VO2 max with altitude adjustment, recovery advisor, training load focus, performance condition, and heat/altitude acclimation. The real-time stamina feature prevents you from going out too hard during races by showing how much energy you have left.
Navigation is exceptional with multi-band GPS, preloaded topo maps worldwide, and ski resort maps. Round-trip routing creates courses based on a distance you specify. The ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer, compass) provide reliable navigation when electronics fail.
Battery life reaches up to 22 days in smartwatch mode and 57 hours in GPS mode. The solar charging adds meaningful runtime during outdoor activities.
The premium pricing starting at $799 reflects the premium capability. If you compete in multiple sports or tackle extreme adventures, the Fenix 7 Pro delivers the most complete package.
While traditional GPS watches struggle with weight room tracking, the Whoop 4.0 takes a different approach that strength athletes appreciate. Instead of focusing on rep counting, Whoop measures the physiological response to your training.
The Whoop 4.0 is a band-style wearable that wraps around your wrist (or other body locations). It continuously monitors heart rate variability, resting heart rate, skin temperature, and blood oxygen. This data feeds into Whoop’s proprietary strain and recovery scoring system.
For strength training, the Whoop tracks heart rate during workouts and calculates the cardiovascular demand of your session. The Strain Coach feature provides real-time feedback on effort. Post-workout, you see exactly how hard your session was and how it affects your recovery.
The recovery score each morning tells you whether your body is primed for high-intensity training or needs rest. This data-driven approach helps prevent overtraining—a common problem for dedicated lifters.
The trade-off is clear: Whoop doesn’t provide GPS, workout rep counting, or smartwatch features like notifications and apps. It’s purely a physiological tracking device. At $239 for the annual membership (which includes the hardware), it fills a specific niche that GPS watches don’t address well.
Not everyone needs advanced metrics or premium materials. The Garmin Forerunner 55 offers genuine training value at an entry-level price, making fitness tracking accessible without breaking the bank.
This watch focuses on the essentials: accurate GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and basic training features. The daily suggested workouts adapt based on your performance and recovery. PacePro helps you maintain consistent splits during races. The race predictor estimates finish times for various distances based on your training history.
Battery life reaches 2 weeks in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode—more than enough for casual runners and beginners. The lightweight 37-gram design feels unobtrusive during daily wear.
The Forerunner 55 includes safety features like incident detection and live tracking, adding peace of mind for solo runners. Auto-pause and auto-lap functions work reliably.
At $199, this is the best budget running watch available. You’re getting genuine Garmin training science at a price that doesn’t require a second mortgage.
With so many options available, selecting the right watch requires honest assessment of your needs, budget, and athletic goals.
Your main activity should drive your decision. Runners benefit most from the Forerunner line’s running dynamics. Swimmers should prioritize the Swim 2 or a watch with strong water metrics. Cyclists might want a device that integrates with bike computers and power meters. Multisport athletes need a capable triathlon watch like the Fenix or Apple Watch Ultra.
Battery life matters differently depending on your activities. Casual runners won’t mind charging weekly. Ultramarathoners and adventure athletes need multi-day battery. If you frequently forget to charge devices, longer battery life provides valuable peace of mind.
Your smartphone operating system influences your options. iPhone users can choose any watch but get the deepest integration with Apple Watch. Android users might prefer Samsung Galaxy Watch or Garmin devices. Consider which apps you currently use—Strava, TrainingPeaks, Nike Run Club, and others integrate differently across platforms.
Quality fitness watches range from $150 to over $1000. The Forerunner 55 delivers solid fundamentals at $199. The Forerunner 265 offers the best value for serious runners at $349. Premium options like the Fenix 7 Pro and Apple Watch Ultra 2 provide maximum capability at significantly higher prices.
Understanding what features actually matter helps you make informed decisions.
GPS and GLONASS: Most watches now include multiple satellite systems. Multi-band GPS (available on premium models) improves accuracy in challenging environments but uses more battery.
Heart Rate Variability (HRV): This measures the variation in time between heartbeats and indicates nervous system state. Lower HRV suggests fatigue or stress; higher HRV often indicates readiness for training. Garmin, Whoop, and COROS all incorporate HRV into recovery recommendations.
VO2 Max: An estimate of your maximum oxygen uptake during exercise. This metric indicates cardiovascular fitness and improves with training. Most running watches estimate VO2 max from workout data.
Water Resistance: Ratings like 5ATM (50 meters) indicate the watch can handle swimming but isn’t suitable for diving. Higher ratings suit serious swimmers.
Sleep Tracking: Most fitness watches now track sleep, but accuracy varies. If sleep data matters to you, research specific model performance.
For most athletes seeking the best all-around fitness smartwatch in 2024, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers the most versatile package. It handles virtually every sport competently, delivers excellent smart features, and integrates seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem. The battery improvements make it practical for extended activities.
Runners focused purely on road performance should consider the Garmin Forerunner 965 for its advanced running dynamics and lightweight design. Those wanting the best value should look at the Garmin Forerunner 265, which delivers most of what makes the 965 great at a lower price.
Multisport athletes and outdoor adventurers will find the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro worth the premium. Athletes prioritizing battery life above all should evaluate the COROS APEX 2 Pro.
Whatever you choose, remember that the best watch is one you’ll actually wear and use consistently. Data only improves your training if you review it and act on it.
What is the best smartwatch for athletes who also want smart features?
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 balances athletic tracking with full smartwatch capabilities including calls, texts, apps, and Siri. It connects seamlessly with iPhone and offers the most complete wearable experience.
Do expensive watches provide significantly better fitness tracking?
Premium watches offer more advanced metrics, better sensors, and superior build quality, but mid-range options like the Garmin Forerunner 265 track essential data accurately. The difference matters most for serious athletes who understand and use advanced metrics.
Which smartwatch has the best battery life for ultramarathons?
The COROS APEX 2 Pro offers the best battery life, providing up to 75 hours in GPS mode. The Garmin Fenix 7 Pro with solar charging also excels, especially during outdoor use.
Are fitness watches accurate for heart rate monitoring during HIIT?
Optical wrist sensors generally perform well during steady-state exercise but can struggle during high-intensity interval training with lots of arm movement. For critical HR data during HIIT, a chest strap provides better accuracy.
Should swimmers choose a dedicated swimming watch?
If you swim competitively or spend significant time in the pool, the Garmin Swim 2 provides specialized metrics like stroke detection, SWOLF scoring, and underwater heart rate that general fitness watches can’t match.
Can I use a running watch for weight training?
Yes, most fitness watches can track strength training sessions by heart rate and duration. However, they won’t count reps or track specific exercises. The Whoop 4.0 specifically measures the physiological strain of strength work.
Explore the best social media apps - free and paid platforms for creators, businesses, and…
Complete TikTok Shop guide for 2025: Learn proven strategies to sell products and explode your…
Discover the biggest social media trends 2024 that are reshaping digital marketing. Learn what's working…
Discover the top social media marketing trends 2024 to boost your brand. Learn proven strategies…
Master social media marketing in 2025 with our complete guide. Boost engagement, grow your following,…
Social media marketing strategies 2024: proven tactics that work. Learn how to grow your following…