Suunto watches have been very popular among mountain guides for many years. But there are so many to choose from, sometimes it seems like you need a guide of your own to help you make your choice. So here it is!

The Suunto Outdoor range has watches designed for people who take part in sports like skiing, trekking, mountaineering, hill walking, mountain biking and a plethora of other outdoor sports. So you don’t have to be a mountain guide to have one. You don’t even need to be into adventure sports – but it helps!

The models in the Suunto Outdoor range include:

Suunto Vector
This is a reliable and robust watch which has ‘ABC’ functions – that is, Altimeter, Barometer and Compass. It comes in a choice of seven different colours.

Suunto Core and Suunto Lumi
The Suunto Core is like an evolved version of the Vector, with improved ABC functionality – you can adjust the altimeter for changes in background air pressure. Also, the barometer’s unique storm warning alarm tells you of any rapid drops in air pressure. The women’s version of the Suunto Core is the Lumi, which has a smaller body and a different range of straps.

Suunto X-Lander
This one has the same features as the Vector but its body is made from aluminium. You have a choice of leather or synthetic straps.

Suunto Observer
The Observer has the same functions as the X-Lander but the metal body is slimmer so it offers a more discreet approach for those who don’t like a chunky watch.

Suunto X9i and Suunto X9mi
A built-in GPS on this watch displays waypoints, tracks and grid references. You also get PC software with the watch to help you plan complex routes. A built-in rechargeable battery is included. The X9mi is a military version which records your position over time, allowing you to analyse your tracks later.

Suunto Altimax
This one is similar to the Suunto Vector but doesn’t have the compass.

Suunto S-Lander
The S-Lander has the same features as the Suunto X-Lander minus the compass.

Suunto Advisor
This is similar to the Suunto Vector but has the added benefit of a heart rate monitor (HRM) and a remote chest belt.

Suunto X3HR
A functional heart rate monitor watch, with the added bonus of an altimeter.

Suunto 6 Series
The 6 series has all the functionality of the Vector, but with more sophisticated analysis of the data. The watches are PC compatible so you can download detailed track logs onto the PC and compare with previous data. You can also measure slope angles with the inclinometer. HRM features are optional. The Suunto S6 is a skier’s version of this watch.

So there is plenty to choose from depending on your needs. Just don’t get lost when you’re looking!