Polar Grit X2 Pro

Polar has taken a big step in 2024 with the launch of the Polar Grit X2 Pro, the second version of its dedicated trail watch.

But is it a simple evolution or a real revolution?

Undoubtedly, the Grit X2 Pro represents a significant change, not only for this model, but also for the Polar range in general. With the addition of offline mapping and the AMOLED display, as well as a dual-frequency GPS, this is a step forward that I consider to be more than considerable.

To better situate this model, I would say that the Polar Grit X2 Pro is the"adventure" version of the Polar Vantage V3, which is more oriented to urban use. After having had the opportunity to test the Vantage V3, I was very excited to conduct this test, especially since the latter had already left me impressed. Let's find out together why the Grit X2 Pro stands out so much.

Detailed analysis of the Polar Grit X2 Pro

Battery life

I tested the Polar Grit X2 Pro during my preparation for the MCC, a 40km race with 2600m of positive elevation gain, exclusive for UTMB members. Although I did not get to test the 43 hours of autonomy promised by the brand, I managed to train for two weeks, adding up to a total of 30 hours of activity, without needing to charge the watch.

It is important to mention that I only used it for training, without activating the smart watches functions or continuous pulse or sleep tracking. After 30 hours, I still have 25% battery left, which leaves me very satisfied. For me, it's a big plus not having to charge the watch during a week of training.

AMOLED display

What can I say about the display? I'm a fan of AMOLED technology, especially now that I'm approaching 50 and my eyesight has gotten a little worse. Thanks to this display, I can see several pieces of data at the same time and read them without a problem. The Polar Grit X2 Pro has a 35mm display, a bit larger than the previous version (30mm), which, along with the AMOLED technology, allows me to view three pieces of data at once, even in the middle of the day when the contrast of the AMOLED can be lower. Fortunately, the Grit X2 Pro has a brightness sensor that automatically adjusts brightness according to conditions.

Offline mapping

After testing the offline mapping on the Polar Grit X2 Pro, I can say that it's a great addition. The AMOLED display significantly improves map readability, which is useful when searching for hilly routes far from home.

I imported some routes and followed them without any problems, which gave me confidence in unfamiliar terrain. After testing the offline mapping, I can say that it is a great addition. Its combination with the AMOLED screen significantly improves the readability of the maps, which is especially useful while searching for hilly routes far from home. I imported a few routes and was able to follow them without any problems.

However, it is important to note that the mapping does not allow route calculation; the map, in the end, functions more as a background on which the track you follow is positioned.

It is important also to note that the cartography does not allow route calculation; the map functions more as a background on which the track you follow is positioned. Despite this limitation, the Polar Grit X2 Pro offers other valuable functionalities, such as real-time pace and altitude tracking, which enrich the navigation and training experience.

Route tracking

Turn-by-turn tracking is available on the Polar Grit X2 Pro, but it's important to mention that it can only be used if you create your routes with the Komoot app. Since I tend to use Strava to generate my rides, I was unfortunately unable to test this specific feature. This means that while the navigation capability is a plus, users who prefer other route planning platforms, such as Strava, might miss out on one of the device's most useful features.

Usability on the watch

One of the aspects that, in my opinion, still has room for improvement on the Polar Grit X2 Pro is menu navigation. The watch has five buttons plus the touchscreen, which can be a bit confusing for those used to more simplified devices. In comparison, brands like Coros and Apple have opted for a more intuitive design, using a single button and wheel in addition to the touch control.

This difference may take some getting used to for users coming from smart watches. However, it is important to note that the touch part of the Polar Grit X2 Pro is well resolved, with smooth and fast transitions. Despite initial complications in navigation, the touch experience contributes positively to the overall usability of the device.

Optical heart rate sensor

Let's be honest: no brand has yet achieved a completely reliable wrist-based heart rate measurement, especially in running. If you're just looking for a general indication, the Polar Grit X2 Pro's sensor works just fine. However, for heart rate-based workouts, I recommend using a chest strap, such as Polar s H10 or the Verity Sense sensor, which is what I used during this test. That said, Polar has improved its algorithm to smooth out heart rate readings, eliminating anomalous spikes.

Three new features of this sensor are worth noting:

• The measurement of blood oxygen saturation (SpO2).
• The generation of an electrocardiogram (ECG).
• The skin temperature sensor

What I liked most about the Polar Grit X2 Pro

• AMOLED display: AMOLED technology makes it easy to read data, even with impaired vision. In addition, the brightness sensor automatically adjusts the brightness, improving readability in different light conditions.
• Battery life: Excellent battery life, achieving up to 30 hours of use in workouts without charging, with 25% remaining after two weeks. It is a great advantage not to have to charge it frequently.
• Offline mapping: The ability to follow routes offline is a key addition for trail running, and the combination with the AMOLED display improves map readability, giving confidence in unfamiliar terrain.
• Trail-specific metrics: Metrics such as instantaneous vertical speed, average vertical speed and average vertical speed over 30 seconds are very useful for those training in the mountains, allowing you to fine-tune performance.
• Real-time pace and altitude tracking: These features enrich the navigation experience, adding important data for performance on mountain routes.
• Improved sensor: New heart rate sensor features, such as SpO2, ECG and skin temperature measurement, add value, and the improved algorithm makes readings more reliable.

Possible points of improvement for Polar Grit X2 Pro

• Menu navigation: The combination of five buttons and touchscreen can be confusing, especially for users coming from more simplified devices like Coros or Apple, which offer more intuitive control.
• Mapping limitation: The mapping does not allow route calculation, limiting its functionality to serving as a visual background for the tracks you have already created.
• Dependency on Komoot for turn-by-turn tracking: Turn-by-turn tracking is only available if routes are created with Komoot, limiting its use for those who prefer other route planning platforms, such as Strava.

Why is the Polar Grit X2 Pro a trail-specific watch?

Polar's Grit X2 Pro is designed specifically for trail running, as it integrates features that make it ideal for this discipline. One of its main advantages is the mapping, which can be used offline, allowing users to explore routes in unfamiliar terrain. In addition, it has a barometric altitude sensor, which provides accurate altitude measurements and allows detailed tracking of changes in terrain.

It also includes three trail-specific metrics that are essential for mountain trainers: instantaneous vertical speed, average vertical speed and average vertical speed over 30 seconds. This data not only helps athletes evaluate their performance on climbs and descents, but is also essential for adjusting their training and strategies based on elevation and terrain difficulty.

Finally, the Grit X2 Pro is a valuable tool for any trail running enthusiast looking to improve their performance in the mountains.