What Are The Top Waterproof Smartwatches For Swimming?
Top Waterproof Smartwatches for Swimming in 2024
For swimmers, waterproofing alone isn’t enough—accuracy in tracking strokes, distance, and other swimming metrics is essential. Here are some of the best waterproof smartwatches designed specifically for swimming in 2024:
1. Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Overview: The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is Apple’s most rugged, water-resistant smartwatch. Designed with divers, swimmers, and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, it includes advanced tracking features for both pool and open-water swimming.
- Water Resistance: Rated up to 100 meters (WR100), suitable for deep dives and extensive water activities.
- Key Features:
- Precision dual-frequency GPS for accurate open-water tracking.
- Depth gauge and water temperature sensors.
- Swim tracking with metrics like lap count, distance, and stroke detection.
- Compatibility with third-party swim apps for detailed analytics.
- Best For: Swimmers who want advanced tracking and durability, and those also interested in diving.
- Price: Starting at £849.
2. Garmin Forerunner 955
- Overview: Known for its GPS accuracy and robust fitness tracking, the Garmin Forerunner 955 is ideal for athletes. It provides detailed swim metrics for both pool and open water, along with training insights to improve performance.
- Water Resistance: Rated up to 50 meters (5 ATM), suitable for pool and open-water swimming.
- Key Features:
- Swim-specific tracking including stroke count, pace, and distance.
- Heart rate monitoring during swimming.
- Advanced training tools like VO2 max, recovery time, and workout load.
- Long battery life with up to 20 days in smartwatch mode.
- Best For: Serious swimmers and triathletes who want precise data and robust training insights.
- Price: Starting at £499.
3. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
- Overview: The Galaxy Watch 6 offers strong swim-tracking features and a sleek design. With Samsung Health, swimmers can monitor detailed metrics, making it a great all-purpose fitness watch for swimmers.
- Water Resistance: Rated up to 50 meters (5 ATM), suitable for both pool and recreational swimming.
- Key Features:
- Automatic swim detection and tracking, with lap count and stroke type recognition.
- Heart rate monitoring and GPS tracking for open water.
- Comprehensive health and fitness tracking with sleep and recovery insights.
- Access to third-party swim apps for in-depth tracking.
- Best For: Swimmers looking for a sleek, all-around fitness smartwatch.
- Price: Starting at £319.
4. Suunto 9 Peak Pro
- Overview: The Suunto 9 Peak Pro is a rugged smartwatch designed for endurance athletes. It’s known for accurate GPS, long battery life, and detailed swim metrics, making it a strong choice for open-water swimmers and triathletes.
- Water Resistance: Rated up to 100 meters, suitable for all types of water sports, including diving.
- Key Features:
- Swim-specific tracking with lap count, distance, stroke rate, and pace.
- Advanced GPS for open-water swimming.
- Long battery life with up to 21 days in smartwatch mode.
- Built with a durable titanium case and sapphire glass.
- Best For: Endurance athletes and open-water swimmers needing a rugged, reliable watch.
- Price: Starting at £589.
5. Polar Vantage V2
- Overview: The Polar Vantage V2 is a performance-oriented smartwatch with features tailored for swimmers. It provides detailed insights into swim metrics and recovery, making it a strong option for training-focused swimmers.
- Water Resistance: Rated up to 100 meters, suitable for extensive swimming sessions and open-water tracking.
- Key Features:
- Swim metrics including distance, strokes, pace, and SWOLF (efficiency metric).
- Integrated heart rate monitor works underwater.
- Recovery tracking with sleep insights and FitSpark personalized workouts.
- Lightweight, making it comfortable for long swims.
- Best For: Athletes focused on training and recovery, looking for detailed swim data.
- Price: Starting at £479.
6. Coros Vertix 2
- Overview: The Coros Vertix 2 is an adventure watch with ultra-rugged durability and a suite of features for swimmers. Known for its impressive battery life and accurate tracking, it’s ideal for outdoor and water sports.
- Water Resistance: Rated up to 100 meters, suitable for swimming and diving.
- Key Features:
- Swim tracking with metrics for both pool and open water.
- Advanced GPS and heart rate monitor for accurate open-water tracking.
- Extremely long battery life, up to 60 days in regular use mode.
- Built for extreme conditions with a durable titanium bezel.
- Best For: Adventurous swimmers and divers who need extended battery life and rugged durability.
- Price: Starting at £699.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Waterproof Smartwatch for Swimming
- For Advanced Tracking and Durability: Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Suunto 9 Peak Pro are excellent choices for swimmers who need high durability and in-depth tracking.
- For Professional Training Metrics: Garmin Forerunner 955 and Polar Vantage V2 provide training-focused features for competitive swimmers.
- For All-Around Use: Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 is great for casual swimmers who also want a stylish smartwatch.
Each of these smartwatches offers unique features that cater to different types of swimmers, from casual users to advanced athletes.
