Polar Grit X2 Pro test: time for trail and adventure
In the Grit X family, I would like the adventurer. The new model from the Finnish brand Polar, the Grit X2 Pro, certainly shares the features of the Vantage V series (notably the V3) but is designed with a more robust case and high-end materials. Above all, this connected sports watch is now equipped with offline maps, also includes dual frequency GPS, an improved heart rate sensor and an AMOLED screen. It also introduces new software features, such as support for Strava routes, vertical speed, etc. Additionally, the optical heart rate sensor algorithm has been improved.
All these new features have been designed for lovers of long distances, particularly trail running… and all those who would like to go on an adventure. With its catalog of 150 sports profiles, it adapts to almost all activities. How to position the Polar Grit X2 Pro against competitors from Garmin or Suunto? To be sure, we took the time to thoroughly test this watch for a complete review.
The Grit X2 Pro displays a decidedly adventurous design with a massive metal case (stainless steel or titanium depending on the options) and a protruding bezel with orientation engravings. We are somewhat following the same codes of robustness as the Epix range at Garmin. It also meets strict military standards MIL-STD 810H. Its format of 48.6 x 48.6 x 13.4 mm makes it an imposing watch on the wrist, larger than the American watch in this case, but it nevertheless remains quite elegant thanks to the use of premium materials. Furthermore, despite its generous dimensions, its weight remains reasonable at 79g (steel model) or 64g (Titan). Without the thickness of the watch which gets in the way a little when putting on a slightly tight shirt or sweater, we would have quickly forgotten about it. In any case, its weight is not a problem.
Autonomy: enough to see coming, but not at the level of the competition
With its 488 mAh battery (like the Polar Vantage V3), the Grit X2 Pro promises up to 11 days of use in connected watch mode or 43 hours of GPS training. A clear improvement over the first generation Grit. Our tests confirmed very good endurance, with around 6-7 days of battery life with intensive use (permanent heart rate monitoring, dual-frequency GPS, always-on screen and five running outings of around one hour each) . This is very good but the Grit X2 Pro remains a notch below competing models if you leave the screen on permanently.
A watch à la carte
One of the big new features of the Polar Grit X2 Pro is that the watch includes preloaded maps for Europe and North America. There is also the option to download additional maps for free from the Polar Flow companion app. Everything can be synchronized with the step-by-step route guide provided by Komoot (it is also Strava compatible). The device has storage space (32 GB), both for mapping and training data and features multi-band GPS for precise and reliable navigation, even in the most demanding mountainous regions. And still with the idea of being able to find your way at any time, the Grit X2 Pro has an integrated flashlight, like the Fenix 7X. At first glance, we think it's a gadget. In reality, it is a very useful tool, both when running at night for extra help and on a daily basis to make life easier.
New features are emerging
The Grit X2 Pro includes interesting new functions, especially for trail enthusiasts. Accurately measures your vertical speed and average climb speed over rough terrain in real time. Practical for training for future mountain races or checking, during a competition, if you are on track so as not to accidentally put yourself in the red. Once the workout is finished, the watch continues to monitor your health constants to ensure that you are recovering well and the quality level of your sleep. In short, it provides a holistic vision of physical fitness, both in activity and in everyday life. All with clear tracking in the Polar Flow app.
Among the new features of the Grit euros compared to the first Grit X Pro! Sold for €749, it is certainly less expensive than the Garmin Epix 2 Pro (€849) but significantly more expensive than the Suunto Vertical (€599) or the Coros Apex 2 Pro (€499).
