Finding the perfect smartwatch that balances style and functionality has never been easier. The Apple Watch Ultra 2, priced at $799 and available at Amazon, Best Buy, and Apple, offers a sleek design that doesn’t scream “sports watch,” making it ideal for runners who want a versatile timepiece for both workouts and daily wear.

This smartwatch is packed with features that cater to fitness enthusiasts, all displayed on a larger, brighter screen. Runners can personalize their workout views to showcase their favorite metrics, fitting up to six data points on a single screen. With the oversized dial on the side, users can effortlessly scroll through five customizable screens. For instance, you might set your main screen to display essentials like elapsed time, heart rate, split pace, average pace, distance, and power, while reserving other screens for post-run analysis metrics such as vertical oscillation, stride length, ground contact time, cadence, and elevation.

The release of watchOS 9.2 in December brought exciting new features to the Ultra 2. Automatic Track Detection uses Apple Maps and GPS data to recognize when you arrive at a running track, asking for your lane to provide precise pace and distance information. This feature activated almost instantly at my local high school track, adding a “wow” factor to my runs. Additionally, Apple users can now import workouts from coaching platforms like TrainingPeaks, simplifying the lives of many coaches, including myself. You can also build custom workouts directly on the watch, like 4 x 400s at race pace.

Race Route is another innovative feature, allowing the Watch to recognize when you’re running a familiar route. It then offers the option to race against your previous best performance on that path, providing real-time updates on your progress. Pacer, another training aid, lets you set a distance and desired pace, alerting you if you deviate from your goal. For example, if I set a 9:00-minute mile pace, the Watch will buzz if I’m going too fast or too slow.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 builds on the strengths of its predecessor with a refined dual-frequency GPS system that combines Apple’s algorithms with on-board sensors. This includes an accelerometer that learns your unique stride length and Apple Maps data, ensuring accurate location tracking even in crowded urban environments.

Battery life has always been a concern for running enthusiasts. While the Ultra 2 doesn’t quite match the endurance of some dedicated running watches, it offers up to 12 hours of battery life during normal outdoor workouts with full heart rate and GPS functionality. In Low Power Mode, with reduced heart rate and GPS readings, it can last up to 35 hours. Apple claims this enables athletes to complete a 100-mile ultramarathon, though I didn’t test this particular claim.

Overall, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a sophisticated blend of style and substance, making it a perfect companion for runners who demand both performance and elegance in their wearable tech.

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