Best Hiking Watches Under $100 for the Best Hiking Experience

Your everyday use watch may not be the best choice for you to wear when going on a hiking expedition.

As much as you would wish to wear your regular watch when hiking, there are some vital features that the watch may lack.

The right hiking timepiece should feature a wide range of physical functions and technology including weather prediction, GPS, a compass, and enhanced durability.

However, it is necessary to note that it is not all watches that offer these features.

Some substandard hiking timepieces may lack the features and functions that make a good hiking watch.

This is why you need to invest in the best hiking watches under 100.

Some of these models are included below.

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Best Hiking Watches Under $100 – Quick Comparison

Related watch collections:

• Rowing watches
• Mountain biking watches
• Dive watches under $500
• Skiing & snowboarding watches

Review of the Best Hiking Watches Under $100

Casio Men’s G7900-1 G-Shock

Not only is Casio Men’s G7900 Watch one of the biggest and most massive hiking watches under 100, but it prides itself in a unique and sophisticated design too.

This model has over the years proved to be quite reliable and efficient for pro hikers.

The watch offers a ton of features that come in handy for hiking and other types of outdoor expeditions.

Robust rugged construction 

The design of this Casio timepiece is geared towards ensuring that the wrist accessory is indestructible even in the worst and severest hiking conditions.

The mineral dial window in the timepiece guarantees that the display is visible at all times and remains intact throughout the life of the timepiece.

Additionally, the 50mm resin casing keeps all the key compartments secure and intact.

In addition to being sturdy and strong, the watch is also water-resistant and shock absorbent.

The watch features a powerful backlight that makes it quite easy to view and read different parameters even in darkness.

Moreover, the watch features an afterglow for alarms, alerts, and countdowns.

In addition to common hiking features found in most watches, this Casio timepiece boasts of additional data such as moon data and tide graphs.

Pros:

1. 200 meters of water resistance
2. Heavy-duty and sturdy resin case
3. Long battery life
4. Backlight for enhanced visibility
5. Alerts for extreme weather

Cons:

1. The watch is overly large for some people

Casio Men’s GD 100-1 BCR

Stylish design and an impressively large digital face are some of the key reasons why the GD 100 by Casio is one of the most unique and best-hiking watches.

The model boasts of some of the best features and functions in hiking watches including night visibility enabled by an automatic LED backlight.

The water resistance in the watch is pegged at 200 meters, thereby making this timepiece perfect for diving.

With this time accessory, you never have to miss any deadline.

This is because the model comes with 5 alarm settings.

Sturdy construction 

This Casio watch prides itself in a robust and sturdy construction that makes the model capable of sustaining and withstanding harsh outdoor conditions.

The resin case is strong and shock absorbent.

Additionally, the metallic bottom is sufficiently hard to sustain different types of impacts including falls.

The watch has both 12- and 24-hour time formats for user convenience.

The watch has a day and date function that comes in handy when you are hiking for a couple of days.

Additionally, the multi-time zone settings allow you to choose time displayed for up to 4 time zones.

Being a superiorly designed and built Casio watch, the model boasts of reliable performance and efficiency.

Pros:

1. Excellent night visibility
2. Shock-absorbent casing
3. Multiple time zone settings
4. Excellent water resistance
5. Large and user-interactive display

Cons:

1. Some people experience discomfort due to the thin straps

Timex Expedition Grid Shock Watch 

When it comes to choosing a hiking watch with the right features, attributes, and functions for an enjoyable outdoor expedition, the Timex Expedition Grid Shock is one of the best choices.

The WS4 design of the model gives it an exclusively stylish look.

Therefore, with this watch, you not only get a highly functional timepiece, but also one that looks extremely beautiful.

The watch is made from premium quality stainless steel that makes it sturdy, solid, and durable.

Solid case

The indestructible stainless-steel top case of the watch ensures that the timepiece can sustain any type of impact while remaining functional and efficient at all times.

In addition to this, the structure of the watch is reinforced by a solid resin case that is scratch-resistant and shock absorbent.

Therefore, your watch will remain intact and beautiful even in the harshest hiking conditions.

The water-resistance of this Timex model is 100 meters thereby making it ideal for typical hiking even in wet weather.

This Timex model comes with a ton of standby alerts, alarm, and security features.

For instance, the hydration alert notifies you when the air is becoming increasingly humid as you hike.

There is also a countdown and stopwatch feature that keeps you on track when out there enjoying yourself.

Pros:

1. Squared display with incredible visibility
2. Tons of security, safety and alarm features
3. Sturdy and solid case
4. Shock-absorbent case hence ideal for hiking
5. Above-average water resistance

Cons:

1. The large display compromises the comfort of wearing the model

Timex Men’s T49612

Are you looking for the best watch that doubles as a reliable hiking watch as well as a perfect everyday timepiece? If yes, you should look no further than at the Timex Expedition T49612 Watch.

This watch model is designed with excellent simplicity that makes it perfect for daily use and always ready for hitting the trails.

With a 200 meters water resistance, there is a lot you can do with this timepiece other than wearing it everyday to work.

This is because you can shower, swim, and dive while wearing the timepiece.

Superior design and construction 

This 48 mm watch boasts of sturdy and solid construction that enhances the reliability and durability of the timepiece when hiking.

The resin straps are not only comfortable but equally durable thereby providing you with the best service and performance for years.

This modern design accessory is shockproof and hence can be worn even in the harshest and toughest hiking environments.

This large-framed watch prides itself in a large compass that is easy to read even in poor lighting conditions.

The Indiglo backlight lights up the display for easy visibility and readability.

Like other Timex models, this Expedition timepiece also comes with a date and day function.

Pros:

1. Durable construction
2. Shock and water-resistant
3. Light up dial for easy visibility
4. Perfect for everyday use
5. Comfortable resin straps with a buckle closure

Cons:

1. The display is smaller than that of other watches in its league

LAD Weather Altimeter Watch

Hiking cannot be more exciting and fun than when using the Lad Weather Altimeter watch.

Boasting innovative features, this multifunctional model is available in up to seven colors.

This makes it easy for you to choose the color that excites you the most.

The watch model comes with remarkable tracking features so that you never get lost when hiking.

Long battery life 

There is nothing more enjoyable and exciting than owning an exclusive watch that has an incredibly amazing battery life.

The premium battery in the watch guarantees that you can enjoy the sophisticated features in the model for long.

In addition to this, the timepiece also boasts of the best tracking modes that include an excellent digital compass, barometer, chronograph, altimeter, and thermometer.

All these features are designed to enhance convenience and safety when hiking.

With this watch, you never have to forget anything.

This is because it comes with several alarms and alerts.

The watch features a timer, calendar, daily alarm, and stopwatch.

Moreover, the dual-time mode in the watch makes it to automatically reset time in multiple time zones.

Pros:

1. Enhanced convenience and safety
2. Reliable digital compass
3. Several alerts and alarms
4. Perfect for daily wearing different outfits
5. Long battery life

Cons:

1. The plastic case makes it less durable

Casio Men’s G100-1BV G-Shock Classic

Casio watches are popular for their reliability and efficiency.

When it comes to the G-Shock Classic watch, you can be guaranteed that you will enjoy the best performance and solidness when hiking.

Its superb performance combined with its shock and water resistance makes the model perfect for any hiking conditions.

The model prides itself on an outstanding display that is characterized by a colorful face that is user-interactive.

Excellent alert features

Are you looking for a watch with a daily alarm? Calendar? Or a dual-time function? If yes, then this G-Shock classic watch is the ultimate choice for you.

As such, you can rely on this model as your daily use watch.

The timepiece comes with a 1/100 seconds stopwatch that allows you to monitor your hiking progress or time yourself for any other activity.

With a battery life of up to 3 years, you never have to worry about the model running out of power when out there in the jungle.

The mineral crystal window in the model is genuinely hard and strong thereby making the watch resistant to damage or scratching.

This analog-digital watch boasts of high accuracy of +/- 15 seconds monthly.

The dual-time display allows you to read time conveniently depending on the format of preference.

Pros:

1. Boasts of magnetic, water and shock resistance
2. Features backlight alerts
3. Incredibly comfortable to wear for long durations
4. Has a dual-time display feature
5. Loaded with tons of features for making hiking more fun

Cons:

1. The straps are uncomfortable for people with large wrists

SUNROAD Men’s Smart Digital Watch 

Rated as the best multi-functional and reliable performance hiking watch, the Sunroad Smart Digital watch is precisely designed for reliability and usefulness when hiking.

This model is designed with a multi-functional appeal such that it can be used for multiple activities including cycling, hiking, swimming, and mountain climbing.

With a 50 meters water resistance, the timepiece is perfect for simple water activities like swimming but not complex ones like diving.

Loaded with unique features

This Sunroad watch model comes with several inbuilt features including a barometer, thermometer, compass, pedometer, altimeter, and stopwatch.

These features provide you with the best tracking features and come in handy in the jungle so that you do not lose your bearing.

The watch is made using ABS stainless steel and hence durable and resistant to breaking, denting and scratching among other types of impacts.

This smart digital watch boasts of a cool military style that makes it an expressly fashionable timepiece.

As such, you can wear them with different outfits including casual and formal wear.

The model also has a day/date function that enhances the user experience.

Pros:

1. Multi-purpose hiking watch
2. Comes with digital features that are reliable and dependable
3. Sturdy and solid design
4. Comfortable straps that are sweatproof
5. Classy and exclusive digital display

Cons:

1. Backlight is poor

How to Choose a Good Hiking Watch for Under $100

What do you need to consider when shopping for a hiking watch? Are there any specific features that you need to consider when looking for the ideal watch to invest in? Here are some insights on how to choose the best hiking timepiece that will meet your needs:

Water resistance

While it is highly unlikely that you will use your hiking watch for scuba diving, you never know how the weather will turn out to be when hiking.

It may start raining or you can even accidentally fall into a mud puddle.

This is why you need to ensure that your hiking watch of preference can withstand exposure to water and moisture.

The minimum water resistance you should consider in a hiking watch is at least 30 meters.

Most hiking watches are designed with excellent waterproofing and hence water is not likely to be a concern for you.

Durability 

Durability is one of the most important aspects worth considering when you are shopping for a hiking watch.

If your hiking watch is designed and built with cheap and poor-quality materials, then they will most likely crack and break under normal situations.

Ensure that the watch of choice is made from a heavy-duty material such as stainless steel or hard resin.

Additionally, you should also ensure that the dial window is made using a scratch-resistant material.

Compass and GPS navigation 

If there is something that every hiker fear is getting lost when hiking.

From huge mountains to thick forests and tall trees that limit visibility, it is quite easy to lose your direction when hiking.

For you to eliminate the risk of getting lost, you must settle for a hiking watch with GPS navigation and a compass.

These features will make it easy for you to know direction as well as the best hiking route to use.

Altimeter

There is always a limit on how high you can go when hiking.

Navigating through outdoor landscapes can be quite complex and tricky without the right hiking watch.

This is why the watch of choice must have an altitude meter or altimeter.

This meter indicates the altitude you are at by utilizing air pressure fluctuations.

An altimeter doubles as a safety precaution since oxygen content diminishes when you get beyond the sea level.

Heart rate monitor 

A heart rate monitor makes it possible for you to ensure that you maintain the right pace when hiking.

This goes a long way in avoiding exhaustion.

Additionally, this feature is life-saving for people with health problems and blood pressure issues.

Thermometer 

The risk of freezing or getting extremely cold when hiking is real particularly when hiking in mountainous regions.

A hiking watch with an inbuilt thermometer registers your temperature thereby making it easy for you to monitor the temperature.

Consequently, this makes it easy for you to dress accordingly such that you can maintain the right body temperature.

Display 

Watches with a unique display are easy to read and enjoyable to use.

Therefore, make sure that the hiking watch that you want to settle for has a big, bold, and bright display.

Additionally, ensure that the display has a backlit option for easy visibility in darkness.

A watch that has a hard-to-read display can be hard to use especially when you need useful information and insights when on a mountain top.

Price

A hiking watch does not necessarily need to be an expensive purchase.

This is because there are lots of affordable models that are as efficient and reliable as the pricey models.

It is recommendable that you have a budget that will guide you on the best model you can comfortably afford without experiencing any financial constraints.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a GPS watch for hiking?

Yes and no.

If you are hiking in an area that you are well familiar with, you do not need a watch with GPS.

This is because you can find your way around the hiking zone easily.

However, if you are hiking in a new area, you will need a functional, reliable, and efficient GPS watch.

This is a watch that can offer you with the best navigation features so that you do not get lost.

Do GPS watches need the internet?

Not necessarily.

GPS just like other mapping apps can track location without requiring an internet connection.

GPS does not require data but if you choose to use satellite view, weather report, or other data, then you will need an internet connection.

Therefore, depending on what you want to search on the GPS feature, you may need to have an internet connection to the watch.

Which Garmin watches have topo maps?

The Fenix 5X watch model by Garmin is the only series from the brand that has topo maps and inbuilt navigation features.

The 5X model comes with 12 GB memory for storing the pre-loaded maps.

What is more unique about this model is that you can also add your preferred maps in the watch.

Non- 5X models by Garmin do not have map features.

Do GPS watches work in the woods?

Yes.

Watches with GPS work efficiently and reliably in the woods as well as in other varied terrains.

Global Positioning System is designed to work in all areas; including regions with the limited signal connection.

In recent times, these systems have undergone a series of developments and improvements aimed at enhancing their accuracy.

What is the best app for hiking?

In present times, hiking has become a fun and exciting experience due to advancements in technology.

There are tons of hiking apps that you can consider using for your hiking experience.

Some of the best apps for hiking include Gaia GPS, AllTrails, Oh, Ranger! ParkFinder, Map My Hike, and SAS Survival Guide.

These apps come preloaded with maps and other hiking features that come in handy for a fun and enjoyable hiking experience.

What is more accurate GPS or GLONASS?

When it comes to positional accuracy, GPS edges out better than GLONASS.

However, due to the multiple positioning of GLONASS satellites, GLONASS boasts of better accuracy far north/south and at high latitudes.

As such, the accuracy of both these systems is equal and hence they are both dependable for hiking.

Can I use Google maps for hiking?

Yes.

Google Maps feature hiking trail maps and ski resorts for major destinations across the globe.

You only need to type in your destination into the application to see the trails that you can follow to the destination of choice.

Always save the offline option of the maps so that you can still access them without an internet connection.

What features can a hiking watch under $100 bring you?

Hiking watches under $100 are pre-loaded with classic features that are designed to make your hiking experience fun and exciting.

These features include a barometer, compass, altimeter, thermometer, Maps, multiple time zones, GPS navigation, heart rate monitor, and an interactive display.

Ideally, these timepieces are pre-loaded with tons of features that are set to make hiking a breeze.

Additionally, these watches also have basic features that include 12/24-hour formats, multiple time zones, and day/date functions.

Can I wear my hiking watch while not hiking?

Generally, hiking watches can be used interchangeably as daily use watches.

This is because these watches feature classy designs that make it easy for the accessories to rhyme perfectly with different outfits.

If you are not keen on owning multiple timepieces, you can invest in a hiking watch model that you can also wear to a job or any other occasion.

However, some models are too bulky and massive for everyday use.

How do I show hiking trails on Google Maps?

On the left side of the Google Maps application, there is a menu section named “Getting Around”.

Touch on this title then select the Terrain option.

You should then zoom in on your destination to get the trails that you are looking for.

These trails are detailed with information and insights to provide you with the exact hiking trails you want.

What do you need to know about hiking?

Hiking despite being a fun and exciting experience can be quite risky and dangerous.

Even with the best hiking watch that gives you reliable insights, there are a few things that you need to take care of.

For starters, you should always check weather updates before going for the hike.

If there is a likelihood that it will rain, you should consider postponing your hiking expedition.

This is because mountain tops and hilly terrains can get slippery after rain.

The other thing that you need to do is familiarize yourself with your hiking trail.

This makes it easy to organize yourself and plan for the hike.

Consequently, you can choose the right gear and footwear depending on the trail that you will use.

Tag along with a friend when going for a hike rather than going alone.

Having a company when hiking will make your hiking experience fun, enjoyable, and thrilling.

Avoid carrying unnecessary gear as this is likely to get tired of nothing.

If you have sensitive skin, you can carry sunscreen for the best skin protection.

Additionally, if the region you are going for a hike is bug-infested, you can carry a spray for killing the bugs.

Also, carry first aid supplies as they come in handy in case you suffer an injury.

Before going for the hike, always ensure that you understand how to operate and use any gear you will carry along.

Also, ensure that you configure your hiking watch accordingly.

This will save you precious time while out in the jungle.

Conclusion 

Finding the best hiking watch under 100 does not necessarily need to be a complex and daunting task.

Identifying the features and functions you are looking for in the ideal hiking watch will save you a lot of time and effort.

Primarily, you should focus on the features and functions of a watch before you even consider the price.

This is so that you do not rush to buy a watch that will be unreliable and inefficient just because it is affordable.

Further reading:

Staying Safe – Trails & Hiking (U.S. National Park Service)

14 Essential Hiking Safety Tips You Should Always Follow