HYROX Complete Guide! 5 Recommended Smartwatches Perfect for Racing and Practice

"I want to try HYROX, but I don't know which watch to use." "I want to smoothly record transitions between running and workout stations during the race." HYROX is a fitness race exploding in popularity worldwide. In this competition, which alternates between 8 runs and 8 workout stations, a simple running watch may feel insufficient. Intense movement, heavy sweating, and contact with equipment—you need a partner that can withstand these and provide accurate data. In this article, from the perspective of HYROX athletes and coaches, we carefully select and introduce smartwatches that are truly suitable for HYROX.

1. Top 5 Strictly Selected Smartwatches Recommended for HYROX

1. Garmin Forerunner 265 / 965

~If in doubt, pick this! The best balanced all-rounder model~

With a recent update, Garmin has officially added a "HYROX Activity Profile" (check for compatible models). This allows for accurate measurement by simply pressing a button according to the progress of the race, without the need for detailed manual settings.

• Pros: Extremely lightweight and easy-to-read AMOLED display. Detailed analysis features of the Garmin ecosystem.
• Cons: The 965 is somewhat expensive. Care must be taken not to hit the screen with kettlebells, etc.
• Recommended for: Serious athletes particular about records, athletes with a running background.

2. Garmin Instinct 2X

~Toughness like a G-SHOCK!~

For those who "just want a sturdy watch," this is the one choice. It has durability compliant with US Military MIL standards, so you don't have to worry at all about dragging sandbags or scraping against wall balls.

• Pros: Overwhelming durability and battery life. Affordable and good cost performance. The physical buttons feel solid.
• Cons: The screen is monochrome and map functions are simplified.
• Recommended for: People who assume hard usage, those who don't want to worry about charging.

3. Suunto Race S

~Overwhelming cost performance and beauty! Dark horse with AMOLED~

Suunto's latest work is currently attracting the most attention as a cost-performance alternative to COROS. It features a bright organic EL (AMOLED) screen at this price point, and map functions are free. Above all, the "Obstacle Race Mode" is perfectly compatible with HYROX.

• Pros: Visibility is excellent even in dark gyms or night runs, and it comes with features to smoothly switch between runs and stations.
• Cons: It takes some time to get used to using the touch panel and button (dial) together.
• Recommended for: People who value screen beauty and map functions but want to keep the budget down. People who like stylish designs.

4. Apple Watch Ultra 2

~The optimal solution for iPhone users! The Action Button is key~

If you usually use an Apple Watch, the Ultra is the only choice. While normal Apple Watches have exposed glass and are at risk of breakage, the Ultra is protected by a titanium case and flat sapphire glass.

• Pros: If you assign the lap function to the "Action Button," it can be used as a physical button. Screen beauty and daily convenience are No. 1.
• Cons: Battery life is inferior to other companies. Expensive.
• Recommended for: iPhone users who want to cover daily life and fitness with one watch.

5. Polar Vantage V3

~The Specialist in Heart Rate Measurement~

If you value heart rate training, choose Polar. With proprietary sensor technology, it accurately captures heart rate variability even during intense exercise. Recovery functions are also substantial, preventing overtraining.

• Pros: Highly accurate heart rate measurement. Excellent visualization of physical recovery status.
• Cons: Operation requires some getting used to.
• Recommended for: People who prefer scientific training approaches.

2. "3 Absolute Conditions" for Choosing a Watch for HYROX

Unlike ordinary running, HYROX has its own specific harshness. Here are three points you must not compromise on when choosing.

1. Operability of Physical Buttons

You sweat like a waterfall in HYROX. Touch screens react poorly with wet fingers, causing frustration during the race. A model that can reliably cut laps with "physical buttons" is essential.

2. Durability and Toughness

You handle heavy equipment like kettlebells, sandbags, and wall balls. You also place your hands on the ground for burpees. Delicate watches risk having their screens cracked or scratched. A model with a sturdy bezel (frame) or reinforced glass is safe.

3. "Multi-sport" Function or "HYROX Mode"

If you want to record running, stations, and the movement between them (ROXzone) separately, you need a "multi-sport mode" like in triathlon.
- The key is a feature that allows you to switch between "Run" -> "Transition" -> "Workout" with a single button.

Summary

• Want to analyze data in detail and use dedicated HYROX mode
  👉 Garmin Forerunner Series
• Want to use it roughly and not worry about scratches
  👉 Garmin Instinct 2X
• Want to keep it extremely light and cheap
  👉 COROS PACE 3
• iPhone integration and design focus
  👉 Apple Watch Ultra 2

HYROX is a battle against yourself. Make a reliable watch your partner and strive in your training to update your personal best!

Thank you for reading to the end!