Some people like to get out and be one with nature without the weight — both physical and mental — of electronic gadgetry. For those who prefer to analyze every detail of your hike, climb, trek or ride, there’s the Suunto Ambit.
Some marketing person probably wrote out a grocery list of every feature imaginable in an outdoor watch and was pleasantly surprised when the engineers at Suunto said, “Sure, we can do that.” Before we share that list of features, take a look at this video that shows off what this wrist computer can do.
Outdoor Functions
If you’re not training to be the best of the best, you’ll be most interested in the outdoor functions of the Suunto Ambit:
- Full featured GPS. Track where you are and where you’ve been, complete with a map on this wrist-sized screen.
- 3D compass. No, it’s not going to project out of the watch, but regardless of how you hold your wrist, you’ll always know which way is north.
- Altitude. If you use these on the slopes, you can track your elevation change for the day with ease.
- Barometer. Get a head start on incoming weather patterns and plan your adventure accordingly.
- Temperature. Pretty self-explanatory 🙂
Training Functions
If you’re using this watch as a personal trainer, it’s filled with features to help:
- Accelerometer integrated GPS. More accurately track your speed on the ground (or in the air).
- Stopwatch with lap functionality. Time your activities and any intervals.
- Heart rate monitor. Track your heart rate throughout your activity, set limits and zones.
Build Features
Since this is a supercomputer for your wrist, rest easy knowing the construction is built for the abuse you want to put it through:
- Mineral crystal lens. Incredibly scratch resistant, so you won’t need to hide it under sleeves.
- Water resistant to 100m / 328′. Take it kayaking, swimming or cliff jumping and it will survive.
- Rechargeable battery. Recharge quickly and never have to worry about replacing batteries.
- Future proof. Fully upgradeable through Suunto’s website, you will continue to gain access to additional features as they’re added.
A few short years ago, all of this functionality wouldn’t have fit on your wrist and if it could, it would cost a small fortune. However, the Suunto Ambit can be had for less than $500 ($477.95 with free shipping at the time of publish) complete with everything you need to get up and running, biking, hiking, climbing or skiing.
