Suunto just redesigned one of its most iconic outdoor watches

Outdoor watches typically compete by adding more features, sensors, GPS maps, health metrics, and endless notifications. Suunto’s newest launch takes a different approach.

Nearly two decades after introducing the original Core, the company has unveiled the Suunto Core 2, an updated version of its classic ABC (altimeter, barometer, compass) watch that’s designed for hikers, climbers, campers, and anyone spending time beyond cell service. Rather than packing in more smart features, it focuses on improving the tools outdoor enthusiasts already rely on.

What’s new with the Core 2

Instead of packing in more tech, the Core 2 doubles down on the features that matter most when you’re off the grid. The redesign includes a display that’s about 40% brighter, Gorilla Glass protection, larger buttons, upgraded weather tracking, 10 ATM water resistance, Bluetooth syncing with the Suunto app, and a replaceable battery that lasts up to 15 months on a single coin cell. It also adds sunrise and sunset times, moon phase tracking, a step counter, and red or green backlighting for nighttime visibility.

Unlike many outdoor watches today, the Core 2 skips GPS, heart-rate monitoring, and fitness tracking by design.

Rather than competing with today’s performance smartwatches, the Core 2 is built as a dependable outdoor tool that prioritizes long battery life, durability, and essential navigation features over constant connectivity. For hikers, hunters, backpackers, and overlanders, that may be exactly the appeal.

Where to find it

The Suunto Core 2 is available now through suunto.com and select outdoor retailers.