| Looking to buy an altimeter watch for your | | | | #3 - Compass. Many people want a watch that |
| outdoor adventures? With all of the | | | | does it all. Our recommendation is to eliminate the |
| manufacturers, features, and opinions out there, | | | | compass as a decision maker when choosing your |
| choosing the right one to fit your needs can | | | | watch. Digital compasses are a battery drain and |
| certainly be a daunting task. Below you will find | | | | just are not that accurate compared to a regular |
| what we think are the top five things to look for | | | | hand held compass. |
| when choosing an altimeter watch. | | | | #2 - Activity. How will you be using your altimeter |
| #5 - Budget. The good news is there is a wide | | | | watch? Do you need one for skiing, hiking, all of |
| selection of altimeter watches in the market. The | | | | the above? Many altimeter watches have some |
| bad news is usually you pay for what you get, | | | | very cool features like vertical rate of ascent and |
| particularly if you want add on features like a | | | | descent, barometer (which warns of coming |
| compass or barometer. If you are in the | | | | weather conditions). Consider what you will need |
| $100-$150 range, go after some of the High Gear | | | | your altimeter watch for and choose one that |
| or Nike watches. If you can afford a bit more, go | | | | makes the most sense for your needs. |
| for the Suunto Core or even the Suunto X10. | | | | #1 - Accuracy. A common complaint from new |
| #4 - Durability. Depending on how you are going | | | | altimeter watch owners is that the watch does |
| to use your watch, durability is a prime concern. | | | | not show the correct altitude. Do you mind |
| While the Suunto Core models have received | | | | calibrating every few hours (or minutes, depending |
| very good reviews, we have experienced many | | | | on changing weather)? If not, then a lower end |
| returns due to software and band breakage. The | | | | watch might work for you. Want an altimeter |
| High Gear Axis watches have a lot of the same | | | | watch that automatically adjusts based on |
| issues. The best of the bunch is the Suunto | | | | changing weather conditions? The Suunto Core |
| Vector - it takes a beating and keeps on ticking. | | | | does just that. Decide how accurate you need |
| Look for a watch with a solid band and face. You | | | | your watch to be before making your purchase |
| want one that can survive a fall if you are skiing | | | | decision. |
| or hiking. | | | | |
