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We’ve said it before, but digital watches don’t make it to the pages of worn&wound very often. And lets be honest, its because a lot of digital watches are, well, ugly. But in certain circumstances, like when you’re working out, looks don’t matter. Sometimes, you really just need a tool to get the job done. And when that’s the case, we say you might as well do it for cheap. So in that spirit, here are a few options for fitness watches under $100.
Running: Timex Ironman 100-Lap Flix Digital Watch – $46.56
The Timex Ironman 100-Lap Flix Digital Watch has just about everything you’ll need for managing your running workouts. It has a chronograph function with super high capacity for recording laps (100, duh), an automated interval repetition counter, programmable alarms and a lot more. One really neat feature of the Ironman is its ability to exclude rest times from the timing of your runs. This way, when the workout is done, you can get an accurate reading of your total runtime without having to do any math. Also, for those of you who do your running at dusk, or who maybe like to run all night super marathons, the Ironman Flix has the convenient feature of activating the INDIGLO light with a flick of your wrist. Best of all, this full-featured watch is priced at just $47.
Hiking: Tech4o Traileader 1 – $99.59
Look around for a good hiking watch and you’ll quickly notice that most of the watches in that genre are big, bulky monstrosities that look like they were meant to blend in with the rocks and dirt along the hiking path. That’s why the Tech4o Traileader 1 stands out as a slightly more subdued, even sleek alternative. But don’t let the smooth black exterior fool you, the Traileader 1 is as full featured as it is well designed. An accelerometer allows you to track your speed, distance, pace, calories burned, steps taken, and total hike time. The watch has a 50-lap chronograph, six timers, and two alarms.
What sets the Traileader apart and puts it firmly in the hiking watch category are the altimeter, barometer, and digital compass. With the altimeter you are able to measure altitude, as well as your rate of ascent and descent. With the Traileader you can also see a 48-hour altitude graph, a 24-hour maximum and minimum altitude indicator, and altitude alarms. Further, with the barometer, you will be able to see a weather prediction, convenient for longer hikes and camping trips. Throw in a digital compass and you’re good to go. At $99, the Tech4o Traileader 1 is a steal, especially when compared to other hiking watches that frequently cost well over $200.
Heart Rate: PUMA Men’s Pulse Black Heart Rate Monitor Watch – $52.13
If maximizing the efficiency of your workout and making sure your body is working on all cylinders is your goal, then the PUMA Pulse Black Heart Rate Monitor Watch may be for you. It’s just $52, and comes with a load of features, including a wireless ECG sensor belt for reading your heart rate. Like a running watch, the Pulse features a chronograph with split time capability, but the key feature is the heart rate monitor. Not only does the Pulse give you a real time reading of your pulse, but it also allows you to set high and low heart rate targets with an alarm set to each. This should make achieving the most effective and efficient workout a piece of cake. Well, aside from the part where you have to intensively work out for a long time.
So there you have a few options for affordable sport watches that should help you make the most of your next workout without breaking the bank.
