10 Best Running Watch For Teens 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Forerunner 265 is a solid running watch choice for teens who want a mix of advanced tracking and smart features in a lightweight design. It offers highly accurate GPS tracking with multi-band SatIQ technology, which helps keep location precise during runs even in tricky environments. The built-in heart rate monitor works continuously and feeds into useful training metrics like recovery status and readiness to exercise, which can motivate teens to train smartly without overdoing it. Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 13 days in regular mode and around 20 hours when using GPS continuously, so it can handle long runs and daily wear without frequent charging.

The colorful 1.3-inch AMOLED touchscreen is easy to read outdoors and responsive, paired with traditional buttons for reliability during workouts. Smartphone connectivity is strong, allowing calls, texts, and music control right from the wrist, plus Garmin Pay for contactless payments in supported regions, which adds convenience. Safety features like incident detection that send your location to contacts can provide extra peace of mind for young runners.

The watch is water resistant and built to be durable, though its 46 mm size may feel a bit large for smaller wrists, which could affect comfort during extended use. While it offers many advanced training insights and supports over 30 activity types, some of the detailed data might be more useful for experienced athletes rather than casual teen runners. This makes the Garmin Forerunner 265 well suited for teens serious about running and fitness who want a reliable, feature-rich watch that can track performance, keep them safe, and stay connected without being overly complicated.

The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music is a highly functional running watch well-suited for teens. One of its main strengths is its built-in GPS and wrist-based heart rate monitor, which make it an excellent tool for tracking pace, distance, and heart rate during runs. The device also features a vibrant AMOLED touchscreen display that is both easy to read and operate, complemented by traditional button controls for convenience. The watch is lightweight and has a comfortable 43 mm design, making it ideal for younger users who may prefer a smaller, less cumbersome device.

With up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 19 hours in GPS mode, it offers impressive longevity, reducing the need for frequent charging. The water resistance feature ensures that it can withstand sweat and rain, adding to its durability for active use. Another notable aspect is its music storage capability, allowing teens to download and listen to their favorite tracks directly from the watch, which can be a great motivator during workouts.

Additionally, the watch supports smartphone connectivity, providing smart notifications for calls and texts, ensuring users stay connected even while on the move. The Garmin Pay feature adds an element of convenience for making purchases without needing to carry a wallet. However, some potential drawbacks include the requirement for subscription services to access music from platforms like Spotify, Amazon Music, or Deezer, which could be an added cost. The watch's price point might also be a consideration for some, given that it falls into the higher range of running watches. Despite these minor cons, the Garmin Forerunner 165 Music offers a comprehensive suite of features that make it a strong contender for teens who are into running and fitness.

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is an excellent choice for teens looking for a reliable running watch. It features accurate GPS tracking, which helps track where and how fast you run. The heart rate monitor at the wrist is convenient, though it's important to note this isn't a medical-grade device. One of its standout features is the impressive battery life, lasting up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode and up to 20 hours with GPS active, reducing the need for frequent charging. The watch is also water-resistant, making it suitable for pool swims and rainy runs.

Additionally, it offers a variety of activity tracking options beyond running, such as cycling, Pilates, and HIIT workouts, which is great for those interested in diverse fitness routines. Smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth allows for easy syncing with the Garmin Connect app, enabling users to customize watch faces, data fields, and access various apps. The design is lightweight and comfortable, with a user-friendly interface. However, the display resolution is relatively low, which might make it less appealing for those who prioritize high-definition screens.

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is best suited for teens who are serious about their fitness and want a comprehensive tool to help with their training and wellness. It's packed with features that support training, from PacePro for pace guidance to recovery advisor, which can enhance their running experience and overall fitness journey.