10 Best Running Watch For Teens 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Forerunner 165 is a great choice for teens who want a running watch that covers all the basics without being complicated. It has built-in GPS that accurately tracks pace and distance, which is perfect for running outdoors. The wrist-based heart rate monitor helps keep an eye on fitness levels during workouts. The watch offers a bright, colorful AMOLED touchscreen that is easy to read, even in sunlight, and also includes traditional buttons for reliable control during activity. Battery life is very strong, lasting up to 11 days in regular use and up to 19 hours when using GPS continuously, so it can handle long training sessions or multiple days without charging. It’s lightweight and designed to be comfortable for smaller wrists, which is ideal for teens.

The watch also includes water resistance, making it safe for use in rain or sweat, though it’s not specified for swimming. Smartphone connectivity allows users to receive call and text notifications directly on the watch, and Garmin Pay makes contactless payments possible, adding convenience. There are personalized daily workouts and recovery insights that help young athletes improve safely. Safety features like incident detection add extra peace of mind when running outside. One downside is that some advanced metrics might require smartphone setup and connectivity, which could be a bit tricky for younger users. Also, while it is durable enough for regular sports use, it’s not marketed as a rugged watch for rough outdoor adventures.

By balancing useful fitness tracking with comfort and ease of use, the Forerunner 165 presents a solid option for teens serious about running and staying active.

The Fitbit Versa 4 is a solid choice for teens looking for a running watch that does more than just track steps. It has built-in GPS, so it accurately tracks your runs without needing your phone nearby, which is great for outdoor workouts. The heart rate monitor works 24/7, helping you understand how hard you’re working and even tracking your stress levels. Battery life is strong, offering over 6 days on a single charge, so you won’t have to worry about daily recharging. The watch is water resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming or sweating through intense workouts.

It connects smoothly to your smartphone for calls, texts, and notifications, keeping you in touch without pulling out your phone. Comfort is enhanced with two band sizes included, and its lightweight design means it won’t feel bulky during runs. The Versa 4 is also durable enough to handle active use, with a touchscreen that responds well. While the device offers many health and sleep tracking tools, making the most of them often requires a paid Premium subscription after the initial 6 months.

For those seeking a versatile fitness companion that extends beyond running—tracking sleep, stress, and offering coaching—the Fitbit Versa 4 is a fitting option. However, if a simpler device focused solely on running basics is preferred, there might be easier alternatives available.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is a promising option for teens looking for a running watch. It excels in key areas like GPS tracking and heart rate monitoring, essential for fitness enthusiasts. The watch's heart rate tracking is enhanced by Galaxy AI, providing more precise readings by filtering body movements. This is particularly useful for young athletes keen on monitoring their cardiovascular health during workouts.

Its sleep monitoring capabilities, coupled with insights for more restful nights and detecting sleep apnea, can be beneficial for teens who want to improve their sleep habits. Additionally, the Energy Score feature might motivate them by assessing daily readiness based on past activities, helping them understand their physical limits and potentially improving their performance over time.

The watch offers a decent battery life and water resistance can be advantageous for those engaging in water sports or running in unpredictable weather. In terms of comfort and fit, the watch is lightweight, which is crucial for daily wear, especially during physical activities. The inclusion of a touch screen and smartphone connectivity adds convenience, allowing teens to sync their data easily and receive wellness tips tailored to their goals.