Hey, I’m looking for a watch for camping and hiking that shows things like the weather and sunset times. It needs to be durable and waterproof if possible. I’m guessing a smartwatch would be best—any good brands for the outdoors?
Many smartwatches need internet access to show weather, but most can display barometric pressure, which helps predict changes. I use a Garmin Instinct 2X Solar—it’s nearly indestructible, has a built-in GPS, compass, barometric pressure readings, and even a bright light. Plus, it rarely needs charging.
@Jessie
Got the same watch and love it. I use the light way more than I expected to.
Check out the Casio Frogman or Mudman. They’re solar-powered and ‘dumb’ watches, but they last forever. I’ve had mine for over 10 years.
Most smartwatches require a phone connection for weather updates unless they have a SIM and subscription. Battery life is another factor—newer OLED watches usually need daily charging. My older Garmin with an LED screen lasts a week between charges, but it needs a Bluetooth connection to my phone for full functionality.
@Oaklan
Thanks. Does the watch also require internet, I assume? I know nothing about this. Would I need an OLED screen? It’s just visuals, right?
Vic said:
@Oaklan
Thanks. Does the watch also require internet, I assume? I know nothing about this. Would I need an OLED screen? It’s just visuals, right?
I have an older Garmin watch with an LED screen—it lasts a week on a single charge. It does need a phone connection for weather and data updates. OLED is mainly for better visuals, but it drains the battery faster. If you want long battery life, stick to simpler displays.
@Oaklan
I’m still using a Garmin Vivoactive 3. The one I’m wearing now I picked up on Marketplace for $30.
I have a Suunto 9 Peak Pro. It shows weather (with occasional syncing), GPS, breadcrumb trails, compass, and sunrise/sunset times. Plus, it has great battery life.
I’ve used various smartwatches, but for camping and hiking, I’d recommend the Garmin Instinct series for durability or a Suunto 9 Baro if you want offline functionality. Garmins are great if you use other Garmin devices, but Suunto watches are excellent standalone tools.
Consider a Casio G-Shock—it’s durable, waterproof, and low-maintenance. Decide if you really need a smartwatch, as they require frequent charging and can fail at inconvenient times.
Garmin Instinct series.
I’ve been using the Amazfit T-Rex (latest version) from Amazon. It’s waterproof and inexpensive, but it needs a phone connection for most features. Here’s a link: Amazfit T-Rex.
Garmin Instinct 2X.
I’ve had a Garmin Fenix for 5 years—it’s super durable, waterproof, and lasts two weeks on a charge. The solar version lasts even longer. I use it for hiking, backpacking, and snowboarding. Highly recommend it!
An Apple Watch is good for this, but you’ll need to charge it often.