A reliable watch is an essential piece of gear for any hiker or outdoor enthusiast. Whether you need to stay on track with your group, monitor your progress on the trail, or simply check the time without draining your phone’s battery, the right hiking watch can make all the difference.

In this guide, we’ve compiled the best hiking watches for 2025, ranging from affordable, no-frills options to high-tech smartwatches packed with advanced features. Read on to find the perfect watch for your next outdoor adventure!

Suunto Core

• Size: 45 x 45 x 14.5 mm
• Weight: 64g
• Main Features: Altimeter, barometer, compass, thermometer, weather forecast, sunrise/sunset indicator, water resistance (30m)

Released in 2007, the Suunto Core is still a top contender for a rugged and affordable ABC (altimeter, barometer, compass) watch. While it may not offer the highest accuracy, its simplicity, durability, and functionality make it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts on a budget. The weather forecast, storm alarm, and sunrise/sunset indicators are especially useful for planning your hikes. The watch also features a replaceable battery, which lasts around 12 months, ensuring it won’t unexpectedly run out of power on your trip.

Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar

• Size: 49 x 49 x 13.6 mm
• Weight: 74g
• Main Features: Solar charging, dual-frequency GPS, solar-powered battery life, training features, health sensors, touchscreen, water resistance (100m)

The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar brings together incredible battery life, durability, and advanced outdoor features. With up to 60 days of battery life and the ability to extend this with solar charging, this watch is perfect for long expeditions. The dual-frequency GPS ensures accurate navigation, and the detailed topographic maps are free to access. Its titanium case and sapphire glass screen make it one of the most rugged watches out there, perfect for both urban and extreme outdoor use.

Garmin Fenix 7 Pro

• Size: 47 x 47 x 14.5 mm
• Weight: 73g
• Main Features: Solar charging, GPS, health sensors, touchscreen, barometer, altimeter, thermometer, water resistance (100m)

Garmin’s Fenix series has set the standard for premium outdoor watches, and the Fenix 7 Pro is no exception. Known for its outstanding GPS accuracy and comprehensive health tracking features, this watch is designed for athletes and adventurers alike. With the new heart rate sensor and advanced navigation system, it offers everything you need for hiking, trekking, and even extreme sports. The Fenix 7 Pro is built to withstand rough environments with its military-standard durability and offers up to 70 hours of battery life with solar charging.

Garmin Enduro 2

• Size: 51 x 51 x 15.6 mm
• Weight: 70g
• Main Features: Solar charging, GPS, ultra-long battery life (up to 150 hours with GPS), training features, health sensors, touchscreen, water resistance (100m)

For those who need an even longer battery life, the Garmin Enduro 2 is a game-changer. With solar charging and the ability to last up to 150 hours with continuous GPS tracking, this watch is built for extreme long-distance adventurers. It shares many features with the Fenix 7 Pro, including GPS navigation and health tracking, but with the added benefit of significantly longer battery life. It is robust, reliable, and perfect for hikers who require a watch that can endure the longest of expeditions.

Garmin Instinct 2 Solar

• Size: 45 x 45 x 14.5 mm
• Weight: 53g
• Main Features: Solar charging, GPS, health sensors, monochrome display, barometer, altimeter, water resistance (100m)

The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar is an excellent option for those who prefer a basic yet durable outdoor watch. The monochrome display ensures long battery life, with the added bonus of solar charging for continuous operation. It features GPS tracking, a barometer, and an altimeter, making it a reliable companion for hikers. While it lacks the full-color display and advanced navigation features of higher-end models, the Instinct 2 is tough, lightweight, and built to military standards, offering incredible durability for its price.

Coros Apex 2 Pro

• Size: 46.1 x 46.5 x 14 mm
• Weight: 66g
• Main Features: GPS, training features, health sensors, dual-frequency GPS, touchscreen, water resistance (50m)

For those seeking a top-notch GPS system without breaking the bank, the Coros Apex 2 Pro is a fantastic option. This watch offers dual-frequency GPS for precise navigation, and it includes advanced training and health features. It’s made from titanium and sapphire glass, ensuring it’s both lightweight and extremely durable. Battery life is impressive, offering up to 60 hours with active GPS. While its mobile app could be improved, the Apex 2 Pro is still a great value considering its high-end features and construction.

G-Shock Mudmaster GWG-2000

• Size: 61.2 x 54.4 x 16.1 mm
• Weight: 106g
• Main Features: Solar charging, mud-resistant, radio-adjusted time, GPS, altimeter, barometer, water resistance (200m)

If you’re looking for a watch that can endure the toughest conditions, the G-Shock Mudmaster GWG-2000 is the ultimate choice. Built like a tank, it’s designed for harsh environments with a shock-resistant and mud-proof construction. It has a 200m water resistance rating, and its sensors include a barometer and altimeter. While it may lack the advanced navigation features of a smartwatch, the Mudmaster excels in extreme durability and functionality, making it ideal for those who need a watch that can withstand any challenge.

G-Shock Mudman GW-9500

• Size: 56.7 x 52.7 x 14.8 mm
• Weight: 81g
• Main Features: Solar charging, mud-resistant, radio-adjusted time, GPS, altimeter, barometer, water resistance (200m)

The G-Shock Mudman GW-9500 is a more affordable alternative to the Mudmaster, but it still offers impressive durability and essential outdoor features. With solar charging and radio-adjusted time, this watch is built to withstand extreme shocks and water exposure. It’s equipped with a digital compass, barometer, and altimeter, making it a useful tool for hikers. The Mudman is easy to read and offers excellent value for those who need a rugged, reliable watch without the premium price tag.

Conclusion

When choosing the best hiking watch for 2025, it’s important to consider your needs—whether you prioritize battery life, GPS accuracy, durability, or advanced health tracking features. The watches on this list offer a range of options for every type of outdoor enthusiast, from the rugged G-Shock Mudman to the high-end Garmin Fenix 7 Pro. Whatever your adventure, there’s a watch that can keep up with you.

Which hiking watch will you take on your next outdoor adventure? Let us know in the comments!