Outdoor watches range from simple rugged timepieces to full ABC (Altimeter, Barometer, Compass) sensors. What you need depends on your adventures—day hikes need less than alpine expeditions.
What Outdoor Watches Offer
- ABC Sensors: Altimeter for elevation, barometer for weather, compass for navigation
- Solar Power: Never worry about batteries in the backcountry
- GPS: Track routes, find your way back
- Durability: Shock resistance, water resistance, scratch-resistant crystals
- Low Light: Backlight or tritium for early starts and late camps
Best Budget: Under $200
Casio Pro Trek PRG-270
$150 - $180
Full ABC sensors, solar powered, 100m water resistant. The value leader for outdoor watches. Proven reliability at approachable pricing.
Casio G-Shock Mudman GW-9500
$180 - $220
Mud and shock resistant, solar powered, triple sensor. Built for abuse. Digital display with compass bearing.
Best Mid-Range: $200 - $600
Garmin Instinct 2 Solar
$350 - $450
GPS with solar charging extends battery life dramatically. ABC sensors, fitness tracking, smart notifications. The modern outdoor standard.
Suunto Core
$200 - $300
Classic ABC watch with storm alarm (barometric pressure drop warning). Understated design works on and off trail.
Best Premium: $600+
Garmin Fenix 7
$700 - $1,000
The ultimate outdoor GPS watch. Topo maps, multi-GNSS, solar option. For serious adventurers who want everything.
Casio Pro Trek PRW-50T Titanium
$400 - $500
Lightweight titanium case, full ABC, solar atomic. Premium Pro Trek for those wanting quality materials.
Traditional Watch Options
Not everyone wants digital. For those preferring analog:
Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB117
$650 - $750
Compass ring, 200m water resistance, automatic movement. Classic mountaineering watch aesthetics with modern reliability.
Sinn 857 UTC
$2,400
German tool watch built for pilots and adventurers. Tegiment hardening, Ar-dehumidifying technology. Serious kit.
Our Picks
- Best Value: Casio Pro Trek PRG-270 — full ABC, solar, ~$170
- Best GPS: Garmin Instinct 2 Solar — smart features, great battery
- Best Premium: Garmin Fenix 7 — everything for serious adventurers
- Best Analog: Seiko Alpinist — traditional watch with outdoor capability