Running. It is something I have, time and again, avoided on the merit that I am not build for it; I could cycle 100km in a day (and yes, I did do that) and I could swim and do all that cross-fit stuff, but running? Nope. I have clearly descended from a different kind of cavemen. But it’s also been something I would have loved to try. Many of my friends are runners of various levels of fitness, and a couple have started from zero to marathon. So it’s doable, but I didn’t have the proper motivation. Will the Apple Watch Nike+ change that?
Apple’s clear target audience for this particular watch model are runners, or those interested in running – like myself. The running community is strong (stronger than many other sports, I presume, although cycling groups are massive too), but it’s also a natural human activity. In collaboration with Nike, it’s bringing this model of the Apple Watch in tandem with its focus on fitness and all the new upgrades that Apple Watch Series 2 has brought to the table.
There’s very little difference between the Apple Watch Nike+ and the Apple Watch Series 2. The hardware is identical, so you get to experience waterproof, faster processing (thank God for that) and GPS. You’ll get bands sold uniquely through the Nike+ and won’t be sold separately for other Apple Watch Series 1 or 2 users (unless you get them second hand, you cheat). The bands are really nice, though; they’re made from the same material as the sports line of bands, but are riddled with holes that are aesthetically pleasing and allow for your skin to breath. In my use, I found this to be true; the band felt less sticky than the other rubber bands after sweating, which makes it more comfortable to wear. It’s also a tad lighter, not that the bands needed Olympian power to carry to begin with.
On the inside, the Nike+ edition has the Nike+ Run Club app embedded, and the new watch faces and complications unique to the Apple Watch Nike+ allow you quick and instant access to your running session through a quick tap. Additionally, the Nike+ Run Club has Siri commands accessible only via the Apple Watch Nike+, so you can start a run by speaking to your Apple Watch.
The app is great, too. Signing up (for free) gives you access to a coach, and whether you’re a beginner or an seasoned runner, you can pick and choose from various types of schedules as well as add your own. Having a program is fantastic as it keeps you on a schedule (and a very reasonable one) with alerts on your upcoming run.
With the GPS now embedded in the watch, you no longer need to have your phone as well when you’re out running. It tracks you run and gives you voice feedback every now and then on how you’re performing through the Apple Watch speakers; it also automatically pauses and continues the run as you stop for a breath, and marks your performance on the map and tracks your pace and elevation gains. All is synced back to the main app on the iPhone as well as Apple Health data.
So, is it worth buying? In a nutshell, it is the Apple Watch Series 2, with the same price and specs, with unique watch faces and bands. If you’re a runner who’s interested in an Apple Watch, this edition is perfect for you. If you already have an Apple Watch Series 2, then the Nike+ edition is not truly an upgrade; the Nike+ Run Club app can still be used on the Series 2 without the Nike+ exclusive features (such as Siri). The features and the bands and watch faces are nice to have, but not must to have. However, if you’re an athlete in any level, or interested in being one, and are considering an Apple Watch, then the Nike+ edition is the right one for you.
