Introducing 3D maps to its mobile route planning might seem like an inevitable next step for Strava. It frames this update as a means for athletes to “visualise the difficulty of different journeys, and make informed decisions on the go”.

According to Strava, with maps showing topography and elevation to scale, users are now able to seek out challenges and ascents while they’re out in the world or find an easier way home.

Strava says this update is “the next step” in making the app the “ideal workout partner for trail sports athletes”, who can assess unfamiliar trails when out riding.

On top of this, Strava also says performance athletes will benefit because they can better tailor training programmes to their goals, such as seeking out training opportunities for climbing or undertaking VO2 max efforts.

The update is available to all users, regardless of whether they use the free or paid version of the app.

You can access the 3D maps on mobile devices by going to the Routes or Record tab. Alternatively, you can use the feature by clicking on the map of any activity.

It appears that the 3D map is available with either satellite images or Strava’s standard map.

Enriched user experience

Strava’s latest update sees its continued move to greater usability and an enriched experience for all users.

The update follows the recent Points of Interest update and Strava’s decisions to make more features available in the free version of the app, as with the Strava Beacon relaunch in August 2021.

It also follows Strava co-founder Mike Horvath’s comments at the Strava Year in Sport 2021, where he outlined how improving the app’s functionality contributed to a 38 per cent increase in recorded activities in 2021 when compared to 2020.