Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

G-SHOCK’s latest G-LIDE watches are a smaller take on surfing timepieces

It is more than a woman's watch

G-Shock G-lide in blue and white
G-Shock

The Euro was introduced. Eminem dropped the Slim Shady LP. Keanu Reeves first appeared as Neo. Lance Armstrong won his first Tour de France. 1999 was a big year in a lot of ways. But for the surfing community, it got the first of a line of watches that would transform the sport from the wrist out. G-SHOCK introduced the G-LIDE, GL-100, with a low-temperature resistance that made it perfect for those early morning waves while the rest of the world missed out in their beds.

Recommended Videos

Since the end of the millennium, G-SHOCK has gone back to the line to add more features over and over again. That included solar power, sunset and sunrise times, and a tough square case perfect for standing up to the wipeouts. But, what made the G-LIDE perfect for surfers was the addition of the moon phase data and the tide data. All of this was packed into a slimmer package that appeared in the newest model last year in the GLX-S5600. But now, G-SHOCK is adding to the line again with two new women’s versions.

G-Shock G-lide on wrist
G-Shock

Introducing the GLXS5600-2 and the GLXS5600-7B

The newest additions to the G-LIDE line, at 40.5 mm, are meant to give the surfing community a smaller option. They give a feeling of surfing with nature as they embrace the eco-friendly ideals that many surfers hold, protecting their ocean for longer surf times and smaller impacts on the environment. The bezel and band are constructed from eco-friendly biomass-based resin, utilizing renewable organic resources for our oceans and beaches, perfect for the surfers of today and tomorrow.

The two new additions come in two colors: The first is a baby blue to represent the hues of the oceans. The freedom of the open water that keeps us searching for the horizon and exploring the seas. The second is a pristine white, representing the untouched beauty of the sandy beaches and the safety of home when you are off the water and on dry land of the coastline.

G-Shock G-lide on wrist 2
G-Shock

Not just for women

Of course, we talked about the fact that men wear women’s watches all the time, so these new beauties aren’t exclusive to women. Like most marketing campaigns with things like colors, sizes, and fragrances, something that is marketed to women isn’t necessarily exclusive. The smaller casing is perfect for the guy with the smaller wrists or the guy who simply wants to keep a lower profile.

And you don’t have to sacrifice any of the perks of the usual G-LIDE, as this one also comes with these amazing features:

  • Shock Resistance ​
  • 200M Water Resistance​
  • LED Light (Super Illuminator) w/Flash Alert
  • Tide & Moon Graph
  • World Time (29 TZ / 48 City)
  • Multi-function Alarm (1 with Snooze Alarm
  • 1/100 Sec Stopwatch (24 Hr.)
  • Countdown Timer (24 Hr.)
  • 12/24 Hr. Time Formats

Each one of these comes at the easy price of about $100. That makes this surfing accessory one of the most affordable, stylish, and eco-friendly options on the market.

Mark D McKee
Mark is a full-time freelance writer and men's coach. He spent time as a style consultant and bespoke suit salesman before…
Topics
Oris Hölstein edition 2025: A timepiece redefining luxury
The Oris Hölstein 2025: Where Swiss craftsmanship meets modern elegance
Oris Hölstein Edition 2025 with illuminated green dial

Oris unveils its Hölstein Edition 2025, a masterpiece blending Swiss precision with avant-garde design. This year’s release is just 250 pieces, an exclusive offering celebrating the brand’s heritage while pushing horological boundaries. The 40mm stainless steel case features a sleek, polished finish, while the gradient green dial—inspired by the dense forests of Hölstein—captures light with mesmerizing depth.

Celebrating the marvel of movement

Read more
How microbrands are quietly revolutionizing the watch world
How microbrand watches are carving a niche in the luxury timepiece market
A row of four luxury watches.

For generations, Rolex, Cartier, and Breitling have been industry leaders in the luxury watch market, their dominance and legacies revered within and outside of the horological community. Over the last few decades, a slew of notable microbrand watches have recently risen in prominence, each offering premium craftsmanship and limited edition exclusivity that has earned high marks from experts and consumers alike. 

While these indie brands may not possess the heritage of the usual suspects in the luxury watch market, what they have done is create dynamic designs that have resonated with a dedicated fan base. We are currently in the midst of a microbrand revolution, and here, we break down how microbrands are quietly revolutionizing the watch world in their own singular way. In this deep dive, we explore the top microbrands making waves, their standout features, and whether they hold long-term value for collectors.

Read more
G-Shock’s original DW-5000c gets mighty full metal reissue
Steel evolution: G-shock's full metal 5000 series celebrates iconic dw-5000c heritage
Casio G-shock original product shot

G-Shock highlights its heritage with the 5000 Series Full-Metal GMW-B5000D-1C, a watch that reinterprets the groundbreaking 1983 DW-5000C. This new release blends the classic styling with updated materials and technology, marking an evolution for the brand’s core design.
The original DW-5000C nearly faded into obscurity but was ahead of its time. It gained traction with younger skaters and surfers, especially after being featured on American television. Today, it’s considered an icon among watch enthusiasts and everyday carry fans, establishing G-Shock’s reputation for toughness and practical utility.
The GMW-B5000D-1C is the first Full Metal model to feature the original’s signature red, blue, and yellow accents—each color carrying meaning: red for “the passion to take on challenges,” blue for “excellent water resistance,” and yellow for “outstanding shock resistance.” Previous Full Metal versions used different color schemes, so this release is especially significant for longtime G-Shock fans.
The construction is a major upgrade from the original’s resin case and rubber strap. The GMW-B5000D-1C uses a stainless steel case and linked bracelet, making it more durable and long-lasting while retaining the iconic look that made the DW-5000C famous.
Modern features include a Tough Solar quartz movement, replacing the old lithium battery and drawing power from sunlight. Bluetooth connectivity allows the watch to sync with a smartphone for easier control and enhanced functionality, bringing the 1980s design into the digital age.
Despite these updates, the essential G-Shock principles remain, especially the shock resistance that first set the brand apart. The GMW-B5000D-1C captures the original spirit, honoring it with new technology and improved durability.
Alongside this release, G-Shock also introduces the GM-B2100SD-1C, which applies the same color theme to the first Full Metal watch’s round case. This two-part launch demonstrates G-Shock’s commitment to honoring its roots while exploring new expressions within the Full Metal series.
The GMW-B5000D-1C is featured on G-Shock’s website, though pricing and availability details have not yet been announced. The timing suggests a focus on collectors and fans seeking a piece of G-Shock history, now reimagined with premium materials and modern features.
This release illustrates how classic designs can evolve through new materials and technology, preserving the core qualities that made them legendary and appealing to both longtime G-Shock enthusiasts and newcomers discovering the brand’s origins.

Read more