Running and cycling are among the most popular forms of exercise, loved for their ability to improve cardiovascular health, build endurance, and clear the mind.
If you’re a runner or cyclist looking to elevate your training, a reliable sports watch is an essential tool.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top five best sports watches for running and cycling in 2025, showcasing features that will help you stay on track and achieve your fitness goals.
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What Makes a Great Sports Watch for Running and Cycling?
A high-quality sports watch for running and cycling should do more than just tell the time. These devices act as personal coaches on your wrist, offering features like GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and detailed performance metrics.
The ideal sports watch for these activities is lightweight, durable, and equipped with a long-lasting battery. Features like water resistance, accurate elevation tracking, and connectivity with apps or smartphones can further enhance the experience.
Whether you’re navigating a long cycling route or pushing for a personal best on a run, having real-time data about pace, distance, and heart rate can make all the difference. Sports watches not only help track progress but also provide motivation by showing your improvements over time.
With advancements in technology, these watches now include smart features like music control, notifications, and even solar charging capabilities.
Let’s dive into our top picks for 2025.
1. Garmin Forerunner 965
Garmin has long been a leader in sports watches, and the Forerunner 965 lives up to the brand’s reputation for excellence. Designed with runners and cyclists in mind, this watch offers advanced metrics, including VO2 max tracking, recovery insights, and dynamic performance analytics.
Key Features:
- Multi-Band GPS: Provides incredibly accurate location tracking, even in dense urban areas or forests.
- Bright AMOLED Display: Ensures you can see your stats clearly in any lighting condition.
- Training Readiness Score: Helps you understand how prepared your body is for an intense workout.
- Battery Life: Up to 23 days in smartwatch mode and 31 hours in GPS mode.
- Music Storage: Download and listen to your favorite tracks while running or cycling.
The Forerunner 965 is an excellent choice for athletes who want top-tier performance tracking and a comfortable, lightweight design. It’s particularly popular among marathon runners and triathletes for its ability to track multisport activities seamlessly.
See Garmin Forerunner 965 on Amazon
2. Coros Pace 3
The Coros Pace 3 is an outstanding option for athletes seeking a high-performance sports watch at an accessible price point. It’s perfect for runners and cyclists who want a compact device packed with essential features.
Key Features:
- Dual-Frequency GPS: Ensures precision tracking, even in challenging environments.
- Running Power Metrics: Tracks your effort and efficiency during runs.
- Customizable Training Plans: Lets you design and follow personalized training programs.
- Battery Life: Lasts up to 24 days in regular mode and 38 hours in GPS mode.
- Lightweight Design: Weighs only 30 grams, making it ideal for long-distance activities.
The Coros Pace 3 offers exceptional value for its price, making it a favorite among beginner and intermediate athletes. Its intuitive interface and reliable performance ensure that you stay focused on your goals without being overwhelmed by unnecessary features.
See Coros Pace 3 on Amazon
3. Polar Pacer Pro
The Polar Pacer Pro is built for endurance athletes who want detailed data about their performance. Its lightweight design and advanced features make it a versatile choice for both runners and cyclists.
Key Features:
- Heart Rate Tracking: Uses Polar’s proprietary Precision Prime technology for accurate readings.
- Training Load Pro: Monitors the strain on your cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems.
- Turn-by-Turn Navigation: Keeps you on course during long cycling routes or unfamiliar runs.
- Battery Life: Delivers up to 35 hours in full GPS mode.
- Sleep Tracking: Provides insights into recovery by analyzing sleep quality and duration.
With a focus on personalized insights, the Polar Pacer Pro is a fantastic tool for athletes serious about optimizing their training. It also supports a wide range of sports profiles, making it a versatile companion for various activities beyond running and cycling.
See Polar Pacer Pro on Amazon
4. Suunto Vertical
The Suunto Vertical is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need rugged durability combined with advanced tracking features. Its sturdy design makes it perfect for tackling tough terrains during runs or bike rides.
Key Features:
- Offline Maps: Access topographic maps directly on your watch.
- Barometric Altimeter: Provides precise elevation tracking, essential for trail running and cycling.
- Solar Charging: Extends battery life in sunny conditions.
- Battery Life: Offers up to 85 hours in GPS mode and 500 hours in expedition mode.
- Weather Forecasting: Gives real-time updates on weather conditions to help you plan your activities.
The Suunto Vertical is a powerhouse for adventurers who value navigation and robust construction. Its solar charging capability is a game-changer for those who spend extended periods outdoors, ensuring that your watch remains functional even during multi-day expeditions.
See Suunto Vertical on Amazon
5. Apple Watch Ultra 2
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the ultimate multi-functional smartwatch that caters to athletes and tech enthusiasts alike. Its sleek design combines style with cutting-edge features tailored for fitness tracking.
Key Features:
- Dual-Core Processor: Ensures seamless performance for all apps and tracking features.
- Comprehensive Health Metrics: Monitors heart rate, blood oxygen, and sleep patterns.
- Wayfinder Face: Includes a compass and real-time elevation tracking.
- Battery Life: Lasts up to 36 hours, or 72 hours in low-power mode.
- Diving Features: Water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it suitable for triathletes.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 excels as both a sports watch and an everyday smartwatch, making it perfect for athletes who want versatility and top-notch performance. Its ability to integrate seamlessly with other Apple devices is an added bonus for those already invested in the Apple ecosystem.
See Apple Watch Ultra 2 on Amazon
Final Thoughts
Investing in a high-quality sports watch can transform your running and cycling experience, helping you stay motivated, track progress, and reach your goals more effectively.
The Garmin Forerunner 965 stands out for its advanced metrics and accuracy, while the Coros Pace 3 offers excellent value for those on a budget. For endurance athletes, the Polar Pacer Pro and Suunto Vertical provide powerful features tailored to long-distance activities. And for those who want a mix of style, functionality, and fitness tracking, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a top contender.
When choosing a sports watch, consider your specific needs, such as GPS accuracy, battery life, and the type of metrics you want to track. Each watch on this list caters to different priorities, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and fitness goals.
With the right sports watch, you’ll gain a valuable companion to guide you through every step and pedal stroke, helping you push your limits and achieve new personal records in 2025.