Having a quality, reliable watch is vital for runners to track their progress and improve their running abilities. Running watches give you the ability to not only track the duration and distance of your runs, but they can also give you split times, heart rate, GPS tracking, elevation tracking, and other features. 

If you’re in the market for a running watch, check out this list of our favorite watches as of late:

1. Garmin Forerunner 235

This watch is the best watch for those amateur runners who are looking for a watch but don’t want to spend a fortune on it. This watch has 24/7 wrist heart-rate monitoring and is GPS-enabled, so you can track all of your runs with accuracy. This watch also displays notifications when connected with the Connect IQ app for both Android and iPhone users. The Garmin Forerunner also counts basic metrics, such as calories and daily steps, and can also be worn in the water as well. 

2. Polar M430

The Polar M430 tracks your distance, heart rate, calories, pace, and altitude. This easy-to-use watch has a plethora of additional features to help you not only focus on training but on other aspects, such as sleep and recovery. The watch gives you access to a recovery index, five-minute fitness test, training load analysis, and training benefit feedback right after your runs. The watch also connects with other fitness apps, such as Strava, MyFitnessPal, and Nike+ Run Club.

3. Apple Watch 5

Probably one of the most popular watches as of late, the Apple Watch 5 is one of the most diverse watch options available. While it is pricier than other watches, it’s a worthwhile investment piece for Apple product users. The Apple Watch 5, like other smartwatches, has multiple workout recording options, such as outdoor run, indoor run or high-intensity interval training, and the watch displays distance, heart rate, average mile pace, current mile pace, split time, and is GPS enabled. The Apple Watch 5 also features an always-on function, so you don’t have to fuss with it while you’re working out.

4. Fitbit Ionic

The Fitbit Ionic has a large display and its touchscreen makes for easy use while working out. The waterproof watch is GPS-enabled and includes various features, such as 24/7 heart rate, health and wellness insights, phone-free music, and workout guidance. This watch also connects to the Fitbit app, which can be downloaded on your phone. The app will give you an in-depth analysis of sleep insights, heart rate zones, movement reminders, and personalized goal reminders.

5. Garmin Forerunner 935

Another option from Garmin, the Forerunner 935 offers advanced multi-sport features and advanced running statistics, including elevation changes, ground contact time balance, stride length, a training status to see if you’re overtraining or under-training, and a cadence gauge. The watch can also be connected to a heart rate strap to get a very accurate heart rate assessment. Additionally, the Garmin Forerunner 935 has the ability to upload data to the Connect IQ app, giving you an analysis of your training sessions.

Running watches are a useful tool to aid athletes in their training by providing various data points, so they can analyze workout statistics, progress, and trends. These are just a handful of options for watches that are beneficial for runners.