COROS APEX
$399, 42 mm; $479, 46 mm
Boasting 100 hours of battery life in GPS mode, the Coros Apex is a marathoner’s (and ultrarunner’s) dream – which is why it’s become so popular among big-name U.S. ultrarunners like Camille Herron and Hayden Hawks. The Apex’s side knob spins to give you a quick and easy path to the different settings, whether you’re looking to check the time, see your cell phone notifications, or just start training (though if you’re accustomed to the more common five-button system, it can take some getting used to, especially in the middle of a run). Data fields are customizable, but only in the app, not on the watch itself. It has some basic nav functions, but they’re not comparable to a high-end Garmin. The watch is made of highly durable polycarbonate and titanium, and the sapphire crystal display is highly scratch-resistant – an important feature if you’re racing in the bush, and still very desirable for a road warrior. This is a great watch, and offers great value for money.