Most people think running is just about working up a sweat, but when it comes to running, there are a lot more factors to consider. One of them is the watch you wear.
As a runner, there’s no doubt that you’ll benefit from a smartwatch that tracks your steps, calories, distance, and more.
This guide will show you why a smartwatch for runners with a GPS tracker is the best choice for people who want to track their workouts, get detailed feedback on their performance, and connect with other runners online.
Smartwatch for runners with gps. Best sellers
Last update on 2025-02-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Top 5 best smartwatch with gps navigation for runners
The smartwatch has become the standard accessory for active people. However, which one is best for runners? And does it even matter? Have a look at our list and find the best smartwatch with GPS navigation for you.
#5. Best Value: Garmin Forerunner 255
A running watch is the essential piece of kit for the serious runner. With a smartwatch, you have the chance to access stats, get updates on race results and plan future workouts.
Garmin is the market leader in smartwatches, and they designed the Forerunner 255 for all your running needs. It’s packed full of features to help you get the most out of each and every run.
You can use this watch on your wrist, on your bike, or even on your handlebars. What’s more, it’s waterproof to 50 meters, so you’re able to take it in the water and use it while you swim.
All this without breaking the bank.
#4. Longest Battery Life: COROS APEX Pro Multisport GPS Watch
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When you’re training for a run, a bike ride, or some other kind of athletic challenge, the COROS APEX PRO gives you everything you need for maximum efficiency and comfort.
Featuring the new APEX PRO Heart Rate Monitor and built-in GPS that tracks your distance, pace, speed, calories burned, and more, the APEX PRO is the perfect training tool.
#3. Best for Triathletes: Garmin Forerunner 955, GPS Running Smartwatch
- Built with an always-on, full-color display that’s light on the wrist and easy to read even in direct sunlight.Special Feature:Waterproof.
- Battery life: up to 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode for a full picture of your health — from sleep to training; plus, get up to 42 hours in GPS mode and up to 80 hours in UltraTrac mode
- Click or swipe through maps and stats with traditional button controls or a new, responsive touchscreen
- Whether you’re running on city streets or riding densely covered trails, Forerunner 955 provides full-color, built-in mapping to keep you on track
- Access multiple global navigation satellite systems, and get access to multiple frequencies sent by navigation satellites for improved accuracy in areas where GNSS signals are reflected, weak or typically don't penetrate — giving you superior accuracy for how far and how fast you’ve run — even in challenging environments
Last update on 2025-02-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Garmin Forerunner 955 is one of the newest models of running watches. This watch allows for a seamless training session, with precise distance covered, pace, heart rate, and calories burnt.
It also features a 3D map to help you navigate the streets, with turn-by-turn directions, and a range of compatible apps to add even more functionality.
#2. Most versatile: Polar Grit X Pro
- RUGGED DURABILITY: Scratch-resistant sapphire glass and FKM wristbands make this watch even stronger than its predecessor. With MIL-STD-810G premium design, up to 100m water-resistance, it’s built to handle any environment.
- ULTRA LONG BATTERY gives you up to 40h of trainings with full GPS and HR tracking (even up to 100h with power save options). Up to 7 days in watch mode with 24/7 HR tracking.
- UNRIVALED OHR TRACKING AND GPS ACCURACY with our world-renowned wrist-based heart rate monitoring. Built-in GPS provides exact locations & assisted-GPS ensures fast fix times.
- TURN-BY-TURN GUIDANCE POWERED BY KOMOOT - enjoy real-time, turn-by-turn navigation on your watch to keep you on the right track.
- FULLY AUTOMATIC AND INTELLIGENT OVERNIGHT RECOVERY MEASUREMENT helps you to track your sleep behavior and understand how well you recovered from training and other factors during the night so that you can make optimal choices for the day ahead.
Last update on 2025-02-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Polar Grit X Pro has been designed with running in mind. It is the ideal watch for those who want a multifunctional smartwatch for outdoor sports, with many of the features of a dedicated GPS sports watch.
The Polar Grit X Pro is an outdoor-ready smartwatch that makes running, cycling and everyday activities more enjoyable and productive. With the latest technology, you’ll get all the benefits of a connected watch without having to carry a separate device.
With all this in mind, the Polar Grit X Pro is the perfect smartwatch for runners.
#1. Best overall: Apple Watch Ultra
- WHY APPLE WATCH ULTRA — Rugged and capable, built to meet the demands of endurance athletes, outdoor adventurers, and water sports enthusiasts — with a specialized band for each. Up to 36 hours of battery life, plus all the Apple Watch features that help you stay healthy, safe, and connected.
- EXTREMELY RUGGED, INCREDIBLY CAPABLE — 49mm corrosion-resistant titanium case. Larger Digital Crown and more accessible buttons. 100m water resistance. Customizable Action button for instant physical control over a variety of functions.
- BIGGEST, BRIGHTEST DISPLAY YET— A bright Always-On Retina display that’s easy to see, even in direct sunlight. More room for adding complications to customize your watch face.
- FOR ENDURANCE ATHLETES — Advanced metrics in the Workout app, including Heart Rate Zones and Running Form. Precision dual-frequency GPS for accuracy, distance, route, and pace calculations. Trail Loop band is thin, light, and flexible, designed especially for runners.
- FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURERS — Redesigned Compass app delivers all-new views and functionality. Mark your location with Compass Waypoints. Backtrack uses GPS to map where you’ve been so you can retrace your steps. Alpine Loop band is extremely rugged and secure to meet the needs of hikers and climbers.
Last update on 2025-02-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
It doesn’t get much better than this. The Apple Watch Series 4 is the smartest watch you’ll ever wear, with all-new intelligent features that help you live your life.
The dual-core processor helps deliver a blazing fast experience.Plus, the always-on Retina display means you’ll see crisp graphics even when the screen is off. When you want to leave your phone behind and go on a hike, run, or climb, the built-in GPS and activity tracking will keep you moving.
Stay motivated with motivational phrases and guided workouts that help you achieve your fitness goals. Use the GPS to track your runs and hikes.

Shopping guide. What to look for when shopping for a smartwatch with GPS navigation for runners
So you’ve decided to buy a smartwatch. Where to start? There are so many options out there. It seems like every day some new one comes out.
That’s why I’m going to show you some of the best ones available, and let you decide which one is the best for you.
First, let’s take a look at some of the basics that we’ll want in a smartwatch. These are things that you can’t really get from any other product.
- A GPS
A GPS is an absolute must-have feature for any watch. It will help you find your location faster and more accurately. This is great for runners and hikers, but you can use it for almost any activity that you need to track.
- Waterproof
As a runner, you’ll likely end up running in the rain. Having a waterproof smartwatch is a must. If it doesn’t have waterproofing, then you’ll need to be very careful.
- Long Battery Life
When you’re tracking your runs, you’ll want to be able to track all day. Most watches with a long battery life will have enough to last you several days.

What is an affordable smartwatch with GPS?
If you’re a gadget geek, then chances are you’re also looking for a smartwatch with a built-in GPS tracker. But what if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on a fancy watch?
There are tons of affordable smartwatches on the market, but the most affordable one is the Fitbit Versa 2.
Your Fitbit Versa 2 is a smartwatch, fitness tracker, and activity tracker in one. Easily track your progress on the go, and receive notifications from all your apps and devices on your wrist. Fitbit Versa 2 has a wide range of sleep tracking features and customizable activity zones to help you reach your goals.