Apple Watch offline map routes debut for Strava and Komoot apps

If you’re an Apple Watch user who likes leaving your iPhone behind on outdoor adventures, recent updates from Strava and Komoot apps should make that easier than ever.

Apple Watch has been an iPhone accessory from the start. And despite the product being capable of a lot sans iPhone, in many cases apps still depend on having a phone nearby.

Fortunately, two popular apps for outdoor activity—Strava and Komoot—have just added a key feature to make going Watch-only more practical.

As spotted by The Verge, Strava and Komoot both now support offline routes in their recently upgraded Apple Watch apps.

This allows users to head outdoors with no iPhone, and even no cellular connection, and enjoy step-by-step navigation thanks to offline map support.

You can now see maps directly on your watch during a run, ride, or hike — including where you’re headed and how to retrace your steps if needed. 

If you’re a subscriber, you can also follow saved Routes hands-free, even offline. Route suggestions are based on activity data from across Strava, so they reflect paths people actually use and like.

The new komoot app for Apple Watch introduces a series of capabilities, including: 

These updates may appeal especially to Apple Watch Ultra users, but they’re available across standard Apple Watch models too.

Have you given offline routes a try on your Apple Watch yet? Let us know in the comments.

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