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Top 5 Surfing GPS Watches in Canada for 2024

Published on Saturday, September 7, 2024

Surfing GPS watches are tailored for surfers to track waves ridden, session duration, and provide surf insights, making them an essential tool for modern surfers. With the growing popularity of surfing in Canada, especially on the coasts of British Columbia and the Atlantic provinces, many surfers are turning to technology to optimize their time in the water. These watches allow for meticulous tracking and analysis, helping surfers elevate their skills, understand their performance, and fully enjoy the thrill of riding the waves. The convenience of real-time data and insights transforms the surfing experience into something more systematic, appealing to both beginners and seasoned surfers alike.

Top Picks Summary

  1. Garmin Instinct Solar Surf
  2. Rip Curl Search GPS 2
  3. Apple Watch Ultra 2
  4. Nixon Base Tide Pro
  5. COROS APEX 2 Pro
BEST OVERALL

Garmin Instinct Solar Surf

Garmin

The Garmin Instinct Solar Surf is a top choice for surfers looking to track their performance with solar charging capabilities. Its rugged design and water-rated features set it apart, making it ideal for water sports enthusiasts. With advanced tracking and navigation functions, this watch offers everything needed for outdoor adventures. Additionally, its smart notifications and connectivity options make it a versatile choice for everyday use.

Garmin Instinct Solar GPS Smartwatch Surf Edition (010-02293-18) w/ 2x ...

Review Summary

90%

"The Garmin Instinct Solar Surf is highly rated by customers for its durable design, long battery life, and accurate tracking features."

From $399.00CAD
BEST BUDGET

Rip Curl Search GPS 2

Rip Curl

The Rip Curl Search GPS 2 stands out as a premier surf watch with GPS tracking and tide data specifically tailored for surfers. Its intuitive interface and customizable surf metrics make it a valuable tool for improving performance. The watch's durable construction and water resistance ensure it can withstand the rigors of surfing. With the ability to track surf sessions and sync data with a dedicated app, the Rip Curl Search GPS 2 is a standout choice for surfers seeking detailed insights.

REVIEW: Ripcurl Search GPS 2 Surf Watch | Stoked For Travel

Review Summary

88%

"The Rip Curl Search GPS 2 receives high praise for its advanced wave tracking features, GPS capabilities, and durable construction."

From $830.74CAD
BEST PREMIUM

Apple Watch Ultra 2

Apple

The Apple Watch Ultra sets itself apart in the smartwatch category with its cutting-edge technology and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. Offering advanced health monitoring features and fitness tracking capabilities, this watch excels in keeping users connected and healthy. Its sleek design and high-quality materials make it a stylish accessory for everyday wear. With a wide range of apps and customization options, the Apple Watch Ultra leads the market in smartwatch innovation.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 - Tech Specs - Apple Support

Review Summary

95%

"The Apple Watch Ultra is lauded for its sleek design, cutting-edge health features, and seamless integration with Apple ecosystem."

Reviews from the web

60 quotes · 15 sources · 2023–2026

  • “The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the biggest, toughest, most endurance-friendly watch in Apple’s line-up. Built for bigger adventures than the daintier Apple Watch Series 10, it offers increasingly comprehensive running credentials, along with all the life-taming tools that...”

    2025

  • “The Apple Watch Ultra 2 strikes a great balance between powerful outdoor features and being an excellent smartwatch companion.”

    · 2024

  • “Two-day battery life will remain a sticking point for adventurers heading off-grid, but for those sticking closer to home the Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers a slick, polished experience with no shortage of tools to help you train smarter and get more from your time outdoors.”

    2024

  • “A few hours with the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is enough to confirm that it's an improvement on the stellar original - albeit only an incremental one, specs-wise. That's probably enough to make it the best Apple Watch ever, though, and its screen is amazing.”

    2023

  • “The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a modest update over the original, but a brighter display, support for the double-tap gestures and future-proof processor are welcome improvements.”

    2023

  • “Like the last generation, the Ultra 2 comes in just one size (49mm), but now you can choose from two finishes: natural or black titanium. The black titanium Ultra 2 has a matte finish like the natural model, but the darker color gives it a sleeker look.”

    2025Recent

  • “Modular Ultra is probably my favorite for the Apple Watch Ultra. It takes advantage of all the space and has a ring around the edge that updates in real time to different metrics.”

    · 2024

  • “Red mode was previously one of our favorite additions to this watch, and now it automatically adjusts to changing light conditions. Recently, flashlights have been making their way onto GPS watches, which have quickly become one of our favorite features.”

  • “I placed the Watch Ultra 2 next to my first-gen Watch Ultra, and they were virtually indistinguishable from each other. After cranking up the brightness on both, I could barely tell the difference in standard lighting conditions because Apple uses the same ambient light sensor.”

    ·

  • “Same with wrist flick which is available on Ultra 2”

    2026Recent

  • “Though it outperforms or matches the Series 10 watch in most metrics, it's worth noting that since the Ultra 2 was launched a year prior, it ships with a generation older S9 SiP (System in Package). You also need to be an iPhone user to pair and use an Apple Watch of any kind.”

    · 2025

  • “Double Tap is a beneficial feature for Apple Watch users who may have a disability or who are unable to interact with the wearable with another hand. The gesture does take some getting used to in terms of sensitivity, but it's very easy to use once you get the hang of it.”

    ·

  • “GPS tracks clean routes in tough spots with lots of buildings or trees”

    · 2026Recent

Loved

28

  • Impressively, Apple has made these upgrades without increasing the size or weight of the watch, and while maintaining the same battery life.

    — Advnture

  • The two main differences are an upgraded display, which is 50% brighter, and a new processor that makes the whole experience of using the watch that little bit smoother, and enables a new gesture control for one-handed operation.

    — Advnture

  • Even brighter AMOLED display

    — Advnture

  • Double-tap gesture works well

    — Advnture

  • Great new Modular Ultra watch face

    — Tom

  • Supports the double tap gesture

    — Tom

  • Easier to find iPhone with watch

    — Tom

  • Brighter display than before

    — Tom

  • Apple’s brightest display ever

    — TechRadar

  • It has a brighter screen (Apple’s brightest screen ever, in fact) but Apple’s new S9 SiP chip and the watchOS 10 operating system are what’s bringing most of the changes.

    — TechRadar

  • The key differences to look out for concern the screen and the bands. First off, the screen is even more beautiful than on the first version, capable of putting out an impressive 3,000 nits of brightness at full blast.

    — TechRadar

  • The Ultra 2 also one-ups the Series 10's IP6X dust resistance rating with the addition of an MIL-STD 810H certification, the standard used for military equipment, meaning it has been tested to survive high altitude, extreme temperatures, freezing/thawing, blowing sand, and...

    — PCMag Canada

  • Before testing the Ultra 2, I worried that its brighter screen would come at the expense of battery life, but that's not the case.

    — PCMag Canada

  • Conversely, when using Sleep Focus mode in a dark room, the Ultra 2 will now dim to a single nit (from 2 nits last generation) to reduce disturbance for light sleepers. Regardless of the ambient lighting, I never have a problem reading the Ultra 2's display.

    — PCMag Canada

  • To test its depth gauge, I took the Ultra 2 for a dip in the nearby Gulf of Mexico. I raved over the Depth app last generation, and it works just as well on the Ultra 2, automatically displaying your depth, underwater time, and more when submerged about three feet.

    — PCMag Canada

  • The biggest change for the second-generation Ultra is a 50% increase in screen brightness to 3,000 nits, Apple's brightest display ever. The Series 10 retains its predecessor's 2,000-nit maximum brightness, matching the Galaxy Watch 7 ($299.99) and the original Apple Watch Ultra.

    — PCMag Canada

  • An increase in brightness makes the display easier to read outdoors in bright sunlight. Between its size and brightness, the Ultra 2's display is phenomenal.

    — PCMag Canada

  • Safety features: The emergency SOS, fall and crash detection safety features are largely the same across both watches. However, the Apple Watch Series 10 doesn’t offer the safety siren you get on the Apple Watch Ultra 2.

    — Runner

  • Battery life: The Apple Watch Ultra 2 staying power is perhaps the biggest lure. It offers 36 hours of everyday use while the Apple Watch Series 10 stretches to 18 hours. When you fire up the GPS, both watches cover a marathon.

    — Runner

  • Size, comfort & durability: Both the 42mm and 46mm Apple Watch Series 10 case sizes are dainty by comparison to the Ultra 2. The Ultra 2’s 49mm case size has a big, hench build, with a larger brighter display (3,000 nits vs 2,000 nits).

    — Runner

  • Controls: It may seem like a small thing, but you don’t get the Apple Watch Ultra 2’s customisable action button on the Series 10. This shortcut button makes it a doddle to launch straight into runs and workouts. And when you don’t have it, you miss it.

    — Runner

  • The Apple Watch Ultra 2 screams premium quality, with a slick, sophisticated case made from 95% recycled titanium. It’s a design that’s well finessed and looks great on the wrist – in a confidently hench, adventure-ready way.

    — Runner

  • The 50% brighter display – up to 3,000 nits from 2,000 on the first-gen – is excellent. When you put them side by side, the screen brightness is notably improved over the first-gen Apple Watch Ultra.

    — Runner

  • Despite Garmin, Coros and Suutno all getting in on the AMOLED game, when it comes to brightness, crispness and clarity and visibility in all lights, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 still packs the best screen we’ve seen on a smartwatch – and a better screen than you’ll find on any...

    — Runner

  • Leave your phone behind with cellular

    — Reddit

  • Best-in-class heart rate accuracy

    — Reddit

  • Rugged titanium build resists scratches

    — Reddit

  • Extremely accurate for pool and open water swimming

    — Reddit

Criticised

11

  • Digital Crown may rub your wrist

    — Advnture

  • Relatively short battery life

    — Advnture

  • Minor upgrade from original device

    — Advnture

  • Battery life could be better

    — Tom

  • However, that’s pretty much everything we can say from a software design perspective, as most of the innovations present here are part of watchOS 10, which is also available on other Apple Watches.

    — TechRadar

  • No battery life extension

    — TechRadar

  • Very few new features

    — TechRadar

  • Galaxy Watch models allow for more granular control over screen brightness with a slider and optional adaptive brightness.

    — PCMag Canada

  • For reference, you'll see the Ultra 2 pictured throughout this review on my 6-inch wrist. For aesthetics and comfort, I prefer a smaller watch like the 42mm Series 10 or the 40mm Watch SE.

    — PCMag Canada

  • You’ll charge the Series 10 more frequently. However, you can offset the battery life gap somewhat with the Apple Watch Series 10’s speedier fast charging which hits 80% in just 30 mins compared with an hour on the Ultra 2.

    — Runner

  • Shorter battery life than competitors

    — Reddit

Buyer voices

8

  • “DiscussionIs Ultra Watch 2 worth it? (i.redd.it)”

    — reddit

  • “naturalguy said: I just got the Ultra 2, came from a series 4 m, big difference Click to expand...”

    — MacRumors Forums

  • “Rainman1915 said: You might to grab your brothers series 7 for sleeping, I have an Ultra and eventually found sleeping with it uncomfortable and bought a series 6 just for that. Enjoy your new watch! Click to expand...”

    — MacRumors Forums

  • “Apple_Robert said: Even if a person isn't working out every day, receiving and responding to texts and calls, creating reminders, calendar tasks and the like etc. is a lot faster on the watch but, can quickly go through a lot of battery especially if the signal is weak.”

    — MacRumors Forums

  • “JaraCz said: I have oura ring, sleeeping with any watch is stupid. Click to expand...”

    — MacRumors Forums

  • “GuruZac said: I’m exactly 12 months in to owning my Ultra. Still at 100% battery health. Without workouts and cellular turned off, it easily gets me through 2 and a half days. Even with a 45 mins workout it will still have 68%+ with 14 hours on wrist.”

    — MacRumors Forums

  • “pcd213 said: Question for those who bought a AWU2 coming from the AWU1. Have you noticed that the brightness of watch faces in always on mode (or whatever you call the mode that dims after you’re actively viewing it) to be noticeably dimmer than the 1st gen?”

    — MacRumors Forums

  • “Apple_Robert said: I have found that the Ultra Modular face is quick to go to a red screen when low light is perceived but, it can be a few seconds slow returning to normal screen mode. Click to expand...”

    — MacRumors Forums
From $674.99CAD
BEST VALUE

Nixon Base Tide Pro

NIXON

The Nixon Base Tide Pro stands out as a premium tide watch designed for surfers and water sports enthusiasts. With its accurate tide information and durable construction, this watch is essential for those who rely on precise timekeeping for their activities. The Nixon Base Tide Pro's user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it easy to use in any environment. Its high-quality materials and attention to detail set it apart as a market leader in tide watches.

Base Tide Pro Watch | Sapphire | Digital – Nixon US

Review Summary

86%

"The Nixon Base Tide Pro is well-received for its tide tracking functionality, rugged build quality, and intuitive user interface."

100-200$ in Canada

BEST MULTISPORT

COROS APEX 2 Pro

COROS

The Coros Apex Pro is a standout multisport GPS watch known for its long battery life and advanced performance metrics. Designed for endurance athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, this watch offers detailed tracking data and navigation features. Its robust construction and water resistance make it suitable for challenging outdoor conditions. With innovative training tools and smart connectivity options, the Coros Apex Pro excels as a top choice for athletes seeking peak performance.

COROS APEX 2/2 Pro GPS Outdoor Watch

Review Summary

92%

"The Coros Apex Pro excels in accuracy, battery performance, and multisport tracking, making it a top choice for fitness enthusiasts."

From $599.00CAD

The best surfing GPS watches feature wave tracking technology, durable designs for surf conditions, and specialized metrics for surf enthusiasts.

The Benefits of Using Surfing GPS Watches

Exploring the advantages of surfing GPS watches reveals how they can enhance your surf sessions and overall performance.

Track Wave Performance: Advanced GPS technology allows surfers to log the number of waves ridden, duration of each wave, and overall session analytics, giving deeper insights into performance.

Optimize Surf Sessions: By analyzing the data collected, surfers can determine their best surf times and conditions, maximizing the quality of each outing.

Monitor Fitness Levels: Many surf watches also include fitness tracking features, helping surfers keep tabs on heart rate, calorie expenditure, and physical activity while they surf.

Water Resistance & Durability: Most GPS watches for surfing are specifically designed to withstand harsh ocean conditions, ensuring they can endure the saltwater and shocks of regular use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which surfing watch is best for tracking performance with solar charging?

The Garmin Instinct Solar Surf is the ideal choice for surfers needing solar charging capabilities, earning an average rating of 4.5 stars from users.

Does the Rip Curl Search GPS 2 feature a color display?

Yes, the Rip Curl Search GPS 2 includes a color display along with dedicated GPS tracking and surf-specific features for your sessions.

Is the Apple Watch Ultra 2 worth the 674.99 dollar price tag?

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 costs 674.99 dollars and provides a high-resolution display, comprehensive health tracking, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.

What is the average customer rating for the Garmin Instinct Solar Surf?

The Garmin Instinct Solar Surf holds an average rating of 4.5 stars, reflecting its popularity among surfers who value its rugged design and tide information.

Conclusion

In conclusion, surfing GPS watches are revolutionizing how surfers in Canada approach their craft, allowing for an enriched and data-driven surfing experience. We hope you found the information on the top surfing GPS watches useful. If you're looking for something more specific or have any questions, feel free to use the search bar on Inception to explore further!

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