Product Description

• Company:  Suunto of Finland
• Country of Manufacture: Vaanta, Finland
• Features: GPS (distance, speed, location programming, route tracking), PC USB interface, altimeter, barometer, electronic digital compass, dual time zone, 12/24hr time, calendar, satellite time sync, multiple alarms, chronograph
• Unique / Limited Feature(s): Low Vis. tactical display, red backlighting (military version only)   
• Specifications: 1.5cm /0.59" thick; 76 g/0.16 lbs, LED display; 6hr (GPS on) or  3 month rechargeable battery life (between charges), PC Software (Suunto Track Exporter, Suunto TreckManager)
• Customer Service Rating: Excellent, very courteous and helpful.
• Suggested MSRP: $700.00
• Official Website: suunto.com, movescount.com

For decades Suunto of Finland has made some of the best navigational and orienteering compasses. Today, as the digital market begins to dominate, their focus has shifted toward specialized extreme sports and outdoor navigation watches with integrated digital compasses, the flagship of the line is the X10i. Let’s start off by saying Suunto’s latest industry changing X10i is no ordinary Timex, but far from it! Rather, the only thing that makes the Suunto X10i a “watch”, per say, is the fact that it tells time. Aside from that this truly is nothing short of a laptop computer with a seemingly bulletproof rubber encased metal reinforced strap.  This particular version was developed specifically for military users, and features a low visibility black/greenish-beige LCD display and red night backlighting so as to not refract and reveal the position of its user in a close combat setting.  In addition to urban civilian usage, the X10M/I has also seen heavy action on the hands of coalition troops stationed in Iraq and Canadians in Afghanistan. 

Features

Out of the factory, the watch comes with a variety of features that include a digital compass, electronic barometer/altimeter, trip computer, GPS satellite receiver, GPS navigation computer, weather station (that saves barometer readings), chronograph and measurements; available in both metric or imperial. The next model will have a kitchen sink, folding chair and dresser, I’m sure of it. Based on the geographic location and the time zone it will even give you a rough estimation of what time the sun will rise and set for that day. The computer interface USB cable that connects to the watch also allows you to upload your GPS tracks to Google Earth so you can share your adventures with friends. Another option is Suunto's newly launched GPS community movecount.com or everytrail.com which also supports photos along with your GPS tracks and statistical data (avg. speed traveled, highest elevation, topographical profile, etc).  

What sets this watch apart though is the GPS receiver, credited as being the “smallest in the world.” Using the watches computer USB interface and specificity developed Suunto Trek manager software users can set trail routes, individual coordinate waypoints and even coordinate alarm points (watch beeps when you come within your determined preset warning radius of the location) to warn you of danger or personal points of interest.  However, it differs from your beloved Garmin or TomTom in one key area- turn by turn directions. Unlike your car GPS the watch doesn’t have that high strung female “Garminda” to boss you around rather it has a compass that points you in the right direction and lets you chart your own course while enjoying the scenery. However, if you should stray off course a quick look at the navigation direction marker will point you in the right direct every time.

Cons

The only downside to this watch is the battery life. GPS units drink batteries and, well, this is no exception. With the GPS function turned on it will give you only 6 hours of life from full charge to totally dead. It’s not that bad but in an emergency you never know. However, there is an easy fix to rectify this issue. Simply connecting the computer USB/120v DC power cable to a lightweight USB solar charger such as the Eton Raptor (which I will be reviewing at a later date) will definitely extend the X10s operations capabilities.

The Obsolescence Factor

There is absolutely no “buy it now, worthless by the time I take it home” factor with this watch! It is very unique and has all the features one would want when mountaineering or orienteering. It is also the only unit out there that comfortably sits on your wrist for long periods of time, weights next to nothing and performs tasks as simple as telling the time or performing functions as complex and precise as military coordinate navigation and orienteering without breaking a sweat.

Closing Remarks

Having owned both my current X10M/I and its predecessor (the first handheld GPS watch) the Suunto X9i for over two years now I can honestly say nothing else compares. The iPod like menu style interface is extremely easy to use. The watch is very functional and performs exceptionally well at low/high altitudes. My watch has been all over the world and has performed flawlessly in the very choppy northern Atlantic, extremely hot/humid temperatures of the Caribbean and the well below freezing temperatures of Canada’s winter season.  You would think having all those features would add unnecessary weight but it weighs no more than a normal Timex or Casio, in some case even less and it is so comfortable you can sleep with it on. It is a must have for any outdoor, camping, or GPS/navigation or person of great style.  

The Suunto X10M/I or basic Suunto X10i is available at most authorized Suunto retailers. For locations in Canada use the store locator on the website. It retails for approximately $700 US.

Note: This makes an excellent addition to the Government of Canada's 72-Hour Preparedness/Disaster Response kits. Download the kit list, assemble the kit items and be sure you’re prepared in the event of an emergency!