Orienteering Compasses & Navigation Equipment
An orienteering compass is one of the most important pieces of equipment for navigating accurately through forests, open terrain and complex landscapes. Unlike traditional hiking models, orienteering tools are designed for speed, precision and ease of use while running, allowing you to read the map and maintain direction without breaking your stride.
At Compass Point, we stock carefully selected navigation equipment used by beginners, experienced competitors and elite orienteers. Our range includes thumb models, baseplate options, wrist units, magnifiers and replacement parts from trusted brands including Silva, STR8, Suunto, X-Compass and OrientSport.
Whether you’re preparing for your first local event, representing your club at a national competition or simply improving your navigation skills, choosing the right equipment can make a real difference to your confidence and performance.
As the UK’s specialist orienteering retailer, Compass Point offers one of the widest selections of orienteering devices and navigation accessories available, helping runners of all abilities find the equipment that best suits their needs.
Choosing an Orienteering Compass
The best orienteering compass depends on your experience, the type of events you take part in and your preferred navigation style.
Most competitive orienteers choose a thumb model, which allows the instrument to remain aligned with the map while running. This helps experienced runners navigate quickly without constantly changing their grip.
Baseplate designs are often recommended for beginners, schools and outdoor navigation because they are easy to learn and suitable for a wide range of activities beyond orienteering.
Wrist units provide fast direction checks and are popular for activities such as mountain marathons, adventure racing and fell running, where frequent reference to a map may not always be required.
We also stock magnifiers for easier map reading and a range of replacement straps and accessories to help keep your gear in excellent working condition.
If you’re new to orienteering or unsure which type is right for you, our guide How to Choose an Orienteering Compass explains the different styles and helps you choose the best option for your experience and navigation style.
Trusted Orienteering Compass Brands
We carefully select brands that have earned a strong reputation within the orienteering community through years of reliable performance and continuous innovation.
Silva
Silva has been at the forefront of orienteering equipment development for decades and remains one of the most recognised names in the sport. Their range includes beginner-friendly options as well as advanced tools featuring technologies such as the Jet needle system, making Silva a popular choice for clubs, schools and elite athletes alike.
STR8
STR8 focuses exclusively on performance orienteering gear. Their lightweight designs and fast, stable needles have made them a popular choice among experienced and elite competitors who value speed, precision and simplicity during races.
Suunto
Suunto combines decades of navigation expertise with precision manufacturing. Known worldwide for outdoor navigation equipment, Suunto models are trusted for their accuracy, durability and dependable performance in challenging conditions.
X-Compass
Previously known as Moscow Compass, X-Compass continues to produce specialist navigation tools designed for competitive use. Their modular design allows many models to be repaired, upgraded or adapted by replacing individual components such as the frame, needle capsule or thumb plate. Some options can even be converted between left- and right-handed versions. This flexibility has earned X-Compass a loyal following among experienced orienteers.
OrientSport
OrientSport offers practical navigation equipment designed for training, competition and educational use. Their products provide reliable performance for newcomers while also meeting the needs of experienced orienteers.
Why Buy Your Orienteering Compass from Compass Point?
Choosing an orienteering compass isn’t simply about comparing specifications. Different shapes, needle characteristics and thumb plates suit different navigation styles.
At Compass Point, our recommendations come from years of practical experience using these tools in training, national competitions and international events—not simply from manufacturer specifications. We regularly attend orienteering events across the UK and help runners choose equipment that matches their experience, confidence and navigation style.
Whether you’re buying your first device or replacing a trusted favourite, we’re here to help you make the right choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of orienteering compass should I buy?
For most newcomers, a baseplate model is easy to learn and suitable for both orienteering and general outdoor navigation. As your confidence and speed develop, many runners move to a thumb style for faster map reading during competitions.
What’s the difference between a thumb compass and a baseplate compass?
A thumb style is worn on your hand and is designed for fast navigation while running. A baseplate design is held flat and is often preferred for learning navigation, coaching and outdoor activities where speed is less important.
Which compass do elite orienteers use?
Most elite orienteers use a thumb design because it allows continuous map contact while running. The exact choice varies between individuals, with different athletes preferring different brands, capsule shapes and needle characteristics.
Can I replace parts instead of buying a new compass?
Yes. Replacement thumb straps and other small accessories are available for many popular orienteering models, helping extend their working life.
X-Compass (formerly Moscow Compass) goes a step further with its modular design. Depending on the model, you can replace or upgrade components such as the capsule, frame or thumb plate, and some units can even be converted between left- and right-handed versions without buying a completely new unit.
How long does an orienteering compass last?
A quality orienteering device can provide many years of reliable use if it is properly cared for. Replacing worn straps when needed and storing the unit away from strong magnetic fields will help maintain its performance.
Can I use a hiking compass for orienteering?
Yes, but most orienteers prefer gear designed specifically for the sport. Orienteering models are lighter, have faster-settling needles and are designed for accurate navigation while moving at speed.
Learn More
If you’d like to improve your navigation skills or understand the differences between compass models, these guides are a great place to start: