Suunto teams up with Paris-based sports crew PWRUP for a bold new watch strap collaboration inspired by trail running, island adventures, and the power of community. Born in Paris in 2019, PWRUP (short for Power Up) is more than a sports crew – it’s a movement. A vibrant collective of runners, cyclists, climbers, and explorers, PWRUP has trail running at its heart but thrives in all forms of motion. They’re known for blending lifestyle with performance, constantly pushing limits while building community through shared energy and unforgettable adventures. Describing themselves as a family, PWRUP is as much about people as it is about sport. Whether they’re navigating the streets of Paris or volcanic trails on remote islands, they’re always seeking connection. “I started running in 2015 to stay in shape and quickly fell in love with the sport, discovering its deep impact on my creativity and mental clarity,” says Ruddy Trobrillants, one of the crew’s core members. “Whether navigating the streets of the city or the volcanoes of nearby islands, I’m always chasing connection, balance, and the next big adventure.” That spirit – of movement, discovery, and energy – is now woven into a new collab between Suunto and PWRUP. “The first time I ran with a Suunto watch was during Transvulcania, an intense Ultra marathon in La Palma, in 2022. This is definitely my favorite race, and it allowed me to discover this amazing island,” Ruddy says. “So, when I had the chance to work on a strap design with Suunto, I directly knew that I was going to mix PWRUP DNA and to pay homage to the Isla Bonita.” The SUUNTO x PWRUP watch strap reflects the volcanic earth and rugged rock formations leading up to El Roque de los Muchachos at 2,400 meters above sea level. Embedded with subtle particles to mirror the rocky trail and designed with layered PWRUP logos to symbolize the energy within you, the strap is more than gear – it’s a story. A reminder that the power is already inside you.   Photography by PWRUP – WORN WILD 

Check out these 10 essential running features of the Suunto Run watch and see which ones can support you in reaching your goals! We run to have fun, to unwind, to stay healthy. But we also run to see progress, to push our limits, to compete. Whatever your target, Suunto Run supports you with these ten run-specific features – and more. Interval runs Build structured workouts in the Suunto app and let your watch guide you through the session! With custom intervals, you get exactly the right stimuli for your training goal.  Ghost Runner  Ghost Running is perfect for pacing long runs and steady efforts. Set your target pace and try to keep up with your virtual pacer. And it works both ways – you can use it to avoid going too fast on those easy, long days.  Goals Setting a clear goal helps you stay focused and committed. With Suunto Run, you can define targets for each workout based on duration, distance, ascent, or calorie consumption.  Track running The dedicated track running mode captures your every lap with precision. Select the lane you’re running in, hit start, and the feature calibrates during your first lap – giving you highly accurate data throughout your session.  Marathon Time Suunto Run’s Marathon Time gives you a real-time estimate of your marathon finish time based on your current pace. It helps you pace yourself more evenly and avoid going out too fast on race day. Voice feedback  Pair your Bluetooth headphones with Suunto Run to receive voice updates on your lap performance – even without having your mobile phone with you. For example, turn on auto laps to get regular summaries without needing to glance at your watch. Metronome Cadence – the number of steps you take per minute – is a great indicator of efficient running form. Use Suunto Run’s metronome to maintain your target step frequency. A cadence of around 180 steps per minute is commonly recommended. Hydration reminders Especially during long or hot runs, staying hydrated is critical. Set hydration and nutrition reminders on your Suunto Run to help you stay fueled and performing your best. Connect with your favorite running apps All your runs sync automatically to the Suunto app, where you can analyze your sessions and track long-term progress. The Suunto app also connects with hundreds of partner services, including Strava, Adidas Running, MapMyRun, ASICS Runkeeper, and many more.  Plus all the essentials Beyond these nine run-specific features, Suunto Run offers everything you’d expect from a high-performance GPS watch: optical heart rate measurement, accurate dual-band GPS for pace and distance, recovery and training load insights, heart rate variability tracking, sleep monitoring, and much more. Learn more about Suunto Run at suunto.com/suuntorun

What drives someone to run at 6AM through frosty streets, while another takes on a 50K mountain ultra? Why do we run? As Dr. Neil Baxter shows, the answers are far from simple. Dr. Neil Baxter is a social scientist with a passion for running – not just as a sport, but as a cultural phenomenon. After a five-year research project into British running culture at the University of Warwick, his insights were published in a book on the subject. In a recent talk, he unraveled the complex web of motivations that drive people to run – and how those reasons have changed dramatically over the past century. From the track to the trail: How running has changed If you were to picture a runner in the 1950s, chances are you’d imagine a young, white male – perhaps a university athlete, chasing track records with serious intent. Running, back then, was largely the domain of the competitive few. Recreational joggers, when they began appearing in suburban America in the 1960s, were so unfamiliar that some were stopped by police. Society didn’t quite know what to make of people running slowly down the street without the clear goal of a finish line. Today, that narrow image of the runner has exploded into a kaleidoscope of diversity. We now associate running with people of all backgrounds and body types. We run on city streets, park trails, forest paths. Some chase personal bests, some run for mental clarity, others to raise funds for charity – or simply to feel alive in nature. Health crises, spiritual highs, and social status: The motivations over time The initial running boom in 1960s America was largely a response to rising health concerns, especially heart disease linked to sedentary lifestyles. When jogging entered the public consciousness – thanks in part to Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman’s efforts – it promised a way to take back control of one’s well-being. But running didn't just become a solution for physical health; it soon acquired a deeper meaning. By the 1970s, running had woven itself into the counterculture, with books like The Zen of Running casting it as a spiritual practice. The “runner’s high” was seen not only as a chemical rush but as a transcendent experience – “a flowering of new colours in the soul,” as one writer put it. At the same time, running was adopted by the rising class of ambitious professionals. It became a symbol of individual discipline, self-reliance, and success –  ideals that aligned with emerging neoliberal values. For some, running marked them as part of a new physical elite. The marathon emerged as the ultimate badge of achievement during the 1980s, with participation skyrocketing – especially among male executives seeking a controlled but intense test of toughness. Women, meanwhile, were still being excluded from many of these spaces: the Olympic women’s marathon wasn’t held until 1984. That changed in the early 2000s. A new wave of participation – this time led by women – reshaped running yet again. More inclusive events and broader motivations came into play: fun runs, charity races, color dashes, and community events attracted people who were less driven by competition and more by social connection, physical health, and joy. As marathons became more accessible, some competitive runners shifted toward more extreme formats – like ultramarathons and mountain races. These forms of running, according to Neil’s research, are still disproportionately populated by the same higher-income, male demographic that dominated marathons in earlier decades. Running, even in its most rugged forms, remained a stage for expressing identity, values, and even social class. So why do you run? Neil Baxter’s data underscores what many of us feel instinctively: there’s no single reason people run – there are many, often overlapping ones. Most runners, according to his survey, cited general fitness and emotional well-being as key motivators. Fewer than a quarter said competition was a very important driver. Gender and age also played a role: men were more likely to cite competition and speed, while women prioritized physical and mental health. Interestingly, older runners – especially those over 70 – saw an uptick in social motivations and community connection. Motivations also shift based on the type of running. Track athletes skew competitive and social, while hill and trail runners are drawn to nature. Joggers (non-competitive runners) emphasize physical appearance, and obstacle course racers often cite charitable fundraising. The many faces – and reasons – of running From elite track athletes to casual joggers, from urban commuters to ultrarunners in remote wilderness, running has become a multifaceted activity with room for everyone. Its meaning is no longer confined to podiums or personal records. As Neil Baxter puts it, “Many ideas, meanings, or forms of significance have been attached to the simple act of putting one foot in front of the other.” Running is now as diverse as the people who do it – and as complex as the lives they lead. Whether you run to compete, to clear your mind, to feel strong, or to be part of something bigger, your reason is valid. And just like the sport itself, your reason can change – evolve – over time. Because in the end, we all have our own pace, path, and purpose. Simply put: run your own story. 

The trail running season has started and we are happy to attend the Trail Alsace Grand Est by UTMB, May 15 to 18. We are ready, and you? Last year's edition brought together 6,000 runners from 60 nationalities, who uncovered a landscape rich in historical and cultural Alsatian heritage. Competitors experienced a spectacular start with medieval flair, accompanied by the gallop of knights in armor. This dramatic beginning set the stage for an unforgettable journey, including stops at many fortified castles such as the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, the picturesque towns of Turckheim and Kaysersberg, and the scenic beauty of the famous Alsatian vineyards. Each step revealed a new layer of the region's remarkable history and breathtaking scenery.  Suunto will be present at the race village with a booth, where our team will be happy to share the latest brand news, showcase our products, and support you before your race. But that's not all—take part in the COMMUNITY RUN, in collaboration with PWRUP. Experience the thrill of running 6 km through the stunning hills of Obernai and relax afterward with a snack to refuel. Community Run – Friday, May 16🕑 14:00 – Departure from the Suunto booth🏃 6 km route through the hills of Obernai🕒 ~15:00 – Return to Suunto booth🍫 Post-run snack with Näak products and soft drinks Register now and book a unique opportunity to test one of our sports watches during the run! 👉 REGISTER! Can’t join the community run but still want to try a watch? No problem—just stop by our booth and ask to borrow one for 1 hour, 2 hours, or more. Our team will find a solution for you!

The 2025 UTMB World Series is more exciting than ever with new destinations, the legendary challenges, and Suunto supporting athletes and fans alike. The trail running world is set for another epic year as the 2025 UTMB World Series expands to over 50 events across 28 countries and five continents, bringing the spirit of adventure and community to runners everywhere.  As an official partner of the UTMB World Series, Suunto is proud to be on-site at most of these events, supporting athletes, showcasing our latest products, and inviting the community to join shake-out runs in the lead-up to race day. Whether you're toeing the start line, cheering from home, or meeting us at the expo, we’ll be there to share the journey. From iconic landscapes to new territories, here’s what’s ahead in the 2025 season. Eleven new events The 2025 calendar introduces eleven exciting new races, expanding the series into new regions and offering runners even more ways to connect with the global trail scene. From windswept Cornish coastlines to the remote Chilean wilderness, these events bring fresh terrain and culture to the series.   Here’s the full list of new races joining the series: Europe Arc of Attrition (UK) – Jan 24–26Grand Raid Ventoux (France) – Apr 25–27Monte Rosa Walser Waeg (Italy) – Jul 18–20Kaçkar (Türkiye) – Sep 26–28Puglia (Italy) – Nov 7–9 Asia Ultra-Trail Xiamen (China) – Mar 1–2Ultra-Trail Great Wall (China) – May 16–18Kaga Spa Trail Endurance 100 (Japan) – Jun 19–22 South America Torrencial Chile – Jun 19–21Chihuahua (Mexico) – Oct 2–4Patagonia Bariloche (Argentina) – Nov 18–22 See the full 2025 UTMB World Series race calendar here. Four majors, four chances to double your Stones The UTMB World Series Majors are the pinnacle events of the season on each continent. These are the only races where athletes can double their Running Stones, increasing their chances of qualifying for the UTMB World Series Finals in Chamonix. Running Stones are the official currency of the UTMB World Series qualification system. Runners earn them by finishing UTMB World Series races. The more Running Stones a runner collects, the more chances they have in the lottery to enter the UTMB World Series Finals in Chamonix.  In 2025, the Majors are: Oceania Major: Ultra-Trail Australia – May 15–18 Europe Major: Val d'Aran – July 2–6 America Major: Kodiak Ultra Marathons  – October 10–11 Asia–Pacific Major: Chiang Mai Thailand – December 5–8 All roads lead to the finals in Chamonix The UTMB World Series season culminates in one extraordinary week in Chamonix, France, where the UTMB World Series Finals take place from August 25–31, 2025. The three Finals are: OCC (50K) CCC (100K) UTMB (100M) Alongside these Finals, other events like the TDS, MCC, ETC, YCC, and the legendary PTL will fill the week with unforgettable moments, camaraderie, and trail running excellence.  Watch the season unfold live Want to follow the drama as it happens? 12 races will be broadcast live in 2025 through UTMB Live. The UTMB Live season already started with the live streams of Chianti Ultra Trail and Tenerife Bluetrail in March. Up-coming livestreamed races include: Ultra-Trail Australia (Oceania Major) Val D'Aran Trail Verbier St-Bernard Monte Rosa Walserwaeg Eiger Ultra Trail  UTMB Mont Blanc (Finals) Wildstrubel Nice Côte d'Azur  Kodiak Ultra Marathons (America Major) Chiang Mai Thailand (Asia–Pacific Major) With coverage in multiple languages, drone footage, runner-mounted cams, expert commentary, live stats, and behind-the-scenes interviews, UTMB Live offers an immersive way to experience the races no matter where you are. Even when races aren’t livestreamed, you can still follow the action in real time on live.utmb.world. The platform provides GPS tracking and real-time leaderboards optimized for mobile so you can check in from anywhere. Suunto: Your partner on the trail In 2025, we’ll be right there with you at most of the events –  cheering you on at race expos, running side by side at shake-outs, and celebrating your finishes. See you on the trails! Read more Pace your race with Abby, Iris and Dakota Learn from your run with Hannes Namberger Ultra running mantras: Mental fuel for the long haul

The 11th annual Suunto Vertical Week was bigger than ever, bringing the community together for an epic challenge. Now, the results are in – see who climbed to the top! From March 3–9, we challenged you to rack up as many vertical meters as possible. Once again, we set out to determine which nation and which activity type climbed the most. The data from the Suunto app is in – here are the results! This year, you also had the chance to participate on Strava and support Protect Our Winters through the Vertical Week Strava Challenge. Our goal was to reach 1 million vertical meters, but you crushed that target – 121 times over! We pledged to donate €1 for every 100 meters climbed to Protect Our Winters Europe, up to a limit of 1 million meters, to support their vital work in fighting climate change. Your passion exceeded all expectations – amazing! Familiar names dominated the country rankings In the country rankings for the average ascent per session, the usual suspects – nations in Europe’s mountainous regions – once again came out on top. Austria reclaimed the number one spot from Italy, while Switzerland held onto third place. Average ascent per session by country Austria – 399m Italy – 392m Switzerland – 373m Slovenia – 346m Slovakia – 305m Spain – 273m France – 271m Germany – 230m Czech Republic – 221m Croatia – 214m When looking at total ascent from all participants, France secured the top spot, followed by Spain and Italy. Total ascent by country France Spain Italy Germany Austria Switzerland Poland USA Slovenia United Kingdom On an individual level, ten participants climbed over 14,000 meters in a week – averaging more than 2,000 meters per day. Well done! To make the top 10%, you needed to climb 2,200 meters – 75 meters less than last year but still 300 meters more than in 2023. For the top 3%, the benchmark was 3,958 meters – 104 meters less than last year but 368 meters more than two years ago. Ski tourers lead the way As in previous years, ski tourers dominated. Ski touring was the only activity type where the top three countries averaged over 1,000 meters per session. The overall ski touring average was an impressive 947 meters. However, when looking at the total number of big '1000-meter days', trail runners recorded the most this time. The only country with more than one win in the activity type rankings was South Africa: They dominated both the mountain biking and cycling rankings. Congrats! Ski touring   Austria – 1,044m Switzerland – 1,036m France – 1,005m (All ski touring activities average per session: 947m) Austria claimed the top spot, dethroning Slovakia, while France moved up to third. The 1000-meter mark remains a clear goal for skiers, with the entire top three surpassing it once again. Germany and Italy followed closely at 987 and 971 meters, respectively. Mountaineering   France – 968m Austria – 761m Italy – 750m (All mountaineering activities average per session: 633m) France took a strong category win in mountaineering, with the average ascent for all mountaineering activities remaining exactly the same as last year! (Edit: The top 3 was corrected on March 14 due to an error on our dashboard.) Trail running   Japan – 805m Italy – 652m Portugal – 592m (All trail running activities average per session: 444m) Japan continued to lead, though their average was lower than last year – perhaps due to deep powpow this winter? Mountain biking   South Africa – 490m Spain – 346m Slovenia – 297m (All moutain biking activities average per session: 368m) South Africa maintained its top position despite a drop in its average from 645m to 490m. Is the country getting ready for the upcoming Cape Epic or what do these strong performances in the MTB rankings tell? Gravel cycling Czech Republic – 524m Switzerland – 505m Spain – 422m (All gravel cycling activities average per session: 289m) A full reshuffling – last year’s top three didn’t return to the podium this year! Is this a sign of gravel cycling still evolving and growing as a sport? Cycling South Africa – 490m Spain – 346m Slovenia – 297m (All cycling activities average per session: 172m) Spain and Slovenia held their ranks, but South Africa stole the show with another category win. Lekker, bru! Trekking Spain – 628m Slovenia – 379m Italy – 340m (All trekking activities average per session: 334m) Trekking had a fresh top 3 with Spain clearly taking the win. Hiking Slovenia – 555m Portugal – 529m Spain – 496m (All hiking activities average per session: 235m) Slovenia delivered strong performances across multiple categories this year: number one in hiking but also top three in mountain biking, cycling, and trekking. Kapo dol! Cross-country skiing   Italy – 340m Czech Republic – 325m France – 322m (All XC skiing activities average per session: 227m) Unlike other activities, cross-country skiing was the only one where the average ascent increased from last year. Running   Norway – 123m Switzerland – 122m Belgium – 119m (All running activities average per session: 82m) This was the closest battle of all, with Norway edging out Switzerland by just half a meter! The average ascents in Suunto’s most popular activity type, running, are not huge but that makes the battles even more exciting! See you next year! Vertical Week 2025 proved once again that the Suunto community is unstoppable. Whether you were ski touring in the Alps, trail running in Japan, or cycling in South Africa, your dedication made this event one for the record books. See you next year – until then, keep climbing!