10 Best Running Watch For Teens 2026 in the United States

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 8 (2025) is a solid choice for teens interested in a running watch that doubles as a versatile fitness tracker. It features built-in GPS for accurate tracking of runs and outdoor activities, alongside a reliable heart rate monitor that helps keep an eye on fitness levels and health. Its lightweight and snug cushion design makes it comfortable to wear all day, which is great for active teens who don’t want a bulky watch getting in the way.

Battery life is improved from previous models, providing a dependable charge to support daily tracking, notifications, and coaching without frequent recharging. The watch also shines with its advanced sleep coaching, running coach programs for various distances, and an energy score that gives insights into health and readiness.

Smartphone connectivity works through Bluetooth and Wear OS, enabling easy syncing for notifications and fitness data, which many teens will find handy. The interface is user-friendly and designed to offer quick access to information like sports scores and weather updates. While durable enough for everyday wear, it might not be as rugged as some specialized sports watches built to withstand harsher conditions or rougher handling. This makes the Galaxy Watch 8 suitable for teens who want a stylish, comfortable smartwatch that supports running and general fitness tracking with helpful health insights, though it may not be ideal for those needing extreme water resistance or ultra-rugged durability.

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.