Suunto adds two new running metrics to smartwatches in update

Suunto has released updates for the Race 2 and Vertical 2 smartwatches. The latter launched at the end of September 2025 as a rugged outdoor wearable. The older Race 2 was last updated in October, when it received a heart rate-related bug fix.

Software version 2.48.16 adds new advanced running dynamics to the Race 2 and Vertical 2 smartwatches. These are ground contact time, a measure of the amount of time your foot spends on the ground for each step, and vertical oscillation, which can be used to track the amount of ‘bounce’ in your step. Both of these metrics can be viewed in the running log summary.

Suunto also suggests that it has improved the morning report feature, though it does not explain what changes it has made. On top of this, there is a new notification to remind users about treadmill calibration, and an All apps option has been added to the list of widgets. Plus, the company has tackled two problems linked to battery drain and the button lock.

The phased rollout of software version 2.48.16 began on November 10th, though it is unclear when the update will reach all users of the Suunto Race 2 and Vertical 2 smartwatches (curr. $599 at Amazon). The update will arrive via the Suunto app, automatically downloading to your smartwatch overnight, provided it has at least 50% battery. When it is available to you, the update will be downloadable via the Suunto.