Top 16 Best Waterproof Smartwatches for Swimming in 2024

Smartwatches are not a new device in this digital era. They become more popular among lots of people. Therefore, they are looking for more prominent and powerful features more than just the cost or quality.

Water-proof, of course, is the most crucial feature that a swimmer will consider first when they are looking for a smartwatch for their swim training or just regular swims.

These aiding gadgets bring many useful features besides water-proof, such as health and fitness tracking, smart notifications, online payments, and so on.

Unfortunately, there come many brands with various models, which may cause overwhelmed options. Therefore, I spent lots of time and effort searching for the best waterproof smartwatches for swimming.

All details are reviewed in this article. The buying guide is also included to make everything clear. So, let’s get rolling to find your favorite one.

What Is the Best Waterproof Smartwatch for Swimming?

Like waterproof watches, a swim smartwatch comes in various features and it may take you lots of time to find a suitable model. That’s why I put major functions of some of the best waterproof smartwatches for swimming in short descriptions.

Check it before you go down to other parts.

• Best Overall: Apple Watch Series 5
  “Top-first material; durability; high waterproof depth rate; pool and open water tracking; excellent heart rate monitor; smart notifications.”
• Best Cheap: Withings Steel HR Hybrid
  “Reasonable price; long battery life; incredible sleep monitor; high waterproof depth rate; various sports modes; 24/7 activities tracking.”
• Top Rated: Garmin Vivoactive 3
  “Excellent wrist-based heart rate monitor; great built-in GPS; heavy-duty material; durability; smart notifications; high waterproof rating.”
• Best Waterproof Smartwatch Under $100: Fitbit Charge 3
  “Budget-friendly option; always stay connected; 24/7 heart rate monitor; many preloaded sport modes; excellent integrated GPS.”
• Best Waterproof Android Smartwatch: Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2
  “Prolonged battery life; great heart rate monitor; multi-sport modes; compact design; comfortability; excellent sleep and stress levels tracking.”
• Best Waterproof Smartwatch for Iphone: Apple Watch Series 3
  “High waterproof depth rate; innovative built-in GPS; lightweight; all-day activities tracking; great heart rate monitor; smart notifications.”
• Best With GPS: Casio PRO TREK WSD-F20
  “Advanced integrated GPS; exceptional durability; all-day activities tracking; incredible durability; strong and sturdy material.”
• Best Waterproof Fitness Smartwatch: TomTom Spark 3 Cardio
  “Great Bluetooth connection; advanced sport modes; prolonged battery life; excellent indoor and outdoor tracking; all-day activities tracking.”
• Best With Hear Rate Monitor: Fitbit Versa 2
  “Incredible screen touch; 24/7 activities tracking; various sports modes; always stay connected with powerful smart notifications; great heart rate and sleep monitor.”
• Best With Long Battery Life: Amazfit Bip Fitness
  “Exceptionally extended battery life; advanced integrated GPS; real-time tracking; sleep tracking included; lightweight; highly accurate.”
• Best With Camera: Samsung Galaxy Watch
  “Excellent smart notifications; great heart rate and sleep monitor; high waterproof depth rate; various sports modes; stress levels tracking included.”
• Best With Calling Feature: Garmin Forerunner 235
  “Excellent smart notifications; top-class material; durability; great heart rate monitor; a large display screen; innovative integrated GPS.”
• Best With Blood Pressure Monitor: Garmin Vívoactive 4
  “Exceptional health tracking; great built-in GPS; large storage; safety features included; various sports modes; all-day activities tracking.”
• Most Durable: Garmin Forerunner 735XT
  “Exceptionally durable; high-class material; ideal for open water; innovative integrated GPS; smart notifications; extended battery life.”

Comparison Chart

Before diving into the detailed reviews of the 16 best waterproof smartwatches for swimming, I’d like to give you some key information about the primary specifications.

This comparison table helps you with a better overview of the essential factors that a waterproof smartwatch should have. You can also narrow down the overwhelmed color options.

Let’s check it out.

The 16 Best Waterproof Smartwatches for Swimming Reviews

Now that I’m sure you know more about some of the best waterproof smartwatches for swimming. Nevertheless, that is not always as you see. You need to look more deeply at both advantages and disadvantages of these gadgets to make the right decision.

Let’s delve into those things together!

Apple Watch Series 5

(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)

See the Price on Amazon

First, I was very impressed with the Apple Watch Series 5 that it is designed to work well in swimming pools and open water.

Another great thing that I love in this waterproof smartwatch is its large display. It allows you to see the metric clearer while swimming or doing other activities, like running or hiking. Besides, the smartphone notifications of the Apple Series 5 is also great.

What’s more, this smartwatch is equipped with an ECG app. This feature helps you easily read your heart rate. It also comes with many useful functions to improve your health, including workout, outdoor running measures, etc.

Withings Steel HR Hybrid Waterproof Smartwatch

(Best Cheap)

See the Price on Amazon

I have researched various waterproof smartwatches for swimming in a low-priced range. However, the Withings Steel HR Hybrid impressed me for its great features. I bet it excites you too.

Firstly, the smartwatch’s waterproof depth rate is 50 meters that you can see in most higher-priced models. What’s more, this smartwatch provides up to 25 days of battery life. Hence, your activity tracking is not interrupted due to out of battery anymore.

Another amazing feature of the Withings Steel HR is its heart rate monitor. It helps you measure your heartbeat during swimming or workout. From that, you can adjust your pace, speed to improve your skills.

Garmin Vivoactive 3

(Top Rated)

See the Price on Amazon

I put the Garmin Vivoactive 3 in the top rate position. It has excellent features that you will find not only in a regular smartwatch but also in a waterproof fitness tracker.

This waterproof smartwatch comes with over 15 multisport modes, including indoor and outdoor activities like yoga, running, etc. It also allows you to measure your distance, pace with the great built-in GPS, which is relatively similar to what a triathlon watch can do.

Besides, the Garmin Vivoactive 3 is made from incredibly durable material, withstanding the hardest weather conditions. You can also see and share your exercise and training metrics with the Garmin Connect online community to get more motivation.

Fitbit Charge 3

(Best Waterproof Smartwatch Under $100)

See the Price on Amazon

I have mentioned the Withings Steel HR Hybrid as one of the cheapest models above. In case that model is not compatible with your smartphone, or doesn’t come in your favorite color, try the Fitbit Charge 3.

This is another low-priced option that costs you less than $100 while providing a wide range of helpful features, including indoor and outdoor activities tracking. Its swim-proof rate is 50 meters, allowing you to track your swim sessions by recording pace, stroke, length, etc.

Another great feature of this smartwatch that impressed me is its sleep tracking. It is designed to record your sleep stages automatically. Hence, it gives you detailed insights into your health and you can improve your sleep quality.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2

(Best Waterproof Android Smartwatch)

See the Price on Amazon

You may all know not all smartwatches are compatible with android OS and other operating systems. However, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 can work well on Android devices and some others.

An excellent feature, I think, is the best functionality of this smartwatch is its auto workout tracking system. It is equipped with various preloaded sport modes and auto measures your steps and heartbeat to keep track of your progress.

Not only does the Samsung Galaxy Active2 monitor your sleep, but it also tracks your stress levels. From that, you can know your health situations in detail and have a more proper plan to improve your sleep quality.

Apple Watch Series 3

(Best Waterproof Smartwatch for Iphone)

See the Price on Amazon

If you’re using an iPhone and looking for a smartwatch to connect with while swimming or running, you should try the Apple Watch Series 3. It is also integrated with GPS, making outdoor exercises easier than ever.

According to the manufacturer, this smartwatch is not only swim-proof but also surf-proof and splash-proof. That means you can take it to swim or surf without worrying about water penetration.

What’s more, the Apple Watch Series 3 is equipped with various workout tracking. All these measures are based on the heart rate monitor that can track your activities right on your wrist.

Casio PRO TREK WSD-F20 Waterproof Smartwatch

(Best With GPS)

See the Price on Amazon

GPS is considered one of the essential parts of a smartwatch. Without this feature, you can’t track your length, speed, etc. Your workout progress means nothing if not recorded. For that reason, you should consider the Casio PRO TREK WSD-F20.

As its name suggests, this smartwatch is equipped with excellent GPS, helping you keep track of your pace. What’s more, it comes with 50 meters of waterproof depth rate that is considered safe for swimming. But it is not recommended for snorkeling or diving.

Another great feature of the Casio PRO TREK is its incredibly durable material. It can withstand the toughest weather conditions, making it ideal for outdoor activities, including running, trekking, cycling, etc.

TomTom Spark 3 Cardio Waterproof Smartwatch

(Best Waterproof Fitness Smartwatch)

See the Price on Amazon

Although the TomTom Spark 3 Cardio smartwatch doesn’t offer as high waterproof depth rate as other models in this list, it comes with incredible GPS. This feature lets you track your calories burned, speed, pace, length, etc. during the workout.

That’s why I ranked it as the best waterproof fitness smartwatch. Besides, it can record all your metrics. Hence, you can set a suitable fitness plan and easily achieve that goal.

Another incredible feature to mention of the TomTom Spark 3 Cardio is its prolonged battery life. If you turn on the GPS, you can use it for 11 hours continuously. If not, the battery can last up to 3 weeks.

Fitbit Versa 2

(Best With Hear Rate Monitor)

See the Price on Amazon

You can see that most of the waterproof smartwatches that I reviewed above come with a heart rate monitoring feature. However, if you are serious about your health, workout tracking, you shouldn’t miss the Fitbit Versa 2.

Its heart rate monitor can track all your activities 24/7, including steps, calories burned, distance, etc. More impressively, its battery life can last up to 6 days, depending on your usage. But in general, it quite impressed me!

What’s more, you can quickly get access to your metrics and other information. That is because the Fitbit Versa 2 is designed with a large display screen. Besides, you can control your smart devices with your voice with its integrated Alexa.

Amazfit Bip Fitness Waterproof Smartwatch

(Best With Long Battery Life)

See the Price on Amazon

High-tech devices such as waterproof smartwatches usually consume lots of battery due to various features running at the same time. Understanding this, Amazfit provides the Amazfit Bip Fitness with an exceptionally extended battery life.

With only a single charge, you can use this smartwatch for 30 days. What’s more, it only takes 2.5 hours to charge the battery fully. With its thin lightweight design, you can wear it all day without feeling uncomfortable.

Besides, the Amazfit Bip Fitness is equipped with incredibly accurate GPS and heart rate monitor. These two features help you track your real-time pace, steps, calories burned, etc. It also measures your sleep stages to help with improving sleep quality.

Samsung Galaxy Watch

(Best With Camera)

See the Price on Amazon

With the Samsung Galaxy Watch, you don’t need to worry about your home security when you’re outside. You can connect this smartwatch with the SmartThings app, and it will send you security camera alerts. Such a useful feature!

What’s more, this smartwatch is equipped with an excellent health-tracking system. This feature will measure all your activities, including heart rate, calories burned, etc. From that, you can know if your fitness or health situation is functional or not.

Another unique feature of the Samsung Galaxy Watch is its face. It is a smartwatch, but the face looks like a digital watch, which is incredibly interesting. Besides, you can connect it with Android and iOS devices via its Bluetooth.

Garmin Forerunner 235

(Best With Calling Feature)

See the Price on Amazon

I think many of you have been struggling with your incoming calls with your smartwatch. It might not be active, it doesn’t work well, and sometimes it even doesn’t send you any notifications. But don’t worry, this Garmin Forerunner 235 will help.

Moreover, this version comes with a 44% larger screen than its 225 version, making you easily glance at your watch during workouts. Its battery life is also great, which can last more than a week if used in watch mode and 11 hours continuously in training mode.

Besides, the Garmin Forerunner 235 is equipped with an excellent heart rate monitor. This feature can help you boost your fitness and health situations by tracking the calories burned, steps, pace, distance, etc.

Garmin Vívoactive 4

(Best With Blood Pressure Monitor)

See the Price on Amazon

Nowadays, waterproof smartwatches can do more than just fitness tracking and smart notifications. With the Garmin vívoactive 4, you can track your heart rate and blood pressure with its innovative Pulse ox sensors.

Besides, this waterproof smartwatch is equipped with great GPS. This feature allows you to track your indoor and outdoor activities. You can also download thousands of music to this smartwatch and enjoy your workouts, like what a waterproof MP3 player does.

Furthermore, the Garmin vívoactive 4 provides you with over 20 multi-sport modes. Therefore, you can choose any suitable way to boost your fitness goal. Built-in GPS and safety features are also advantages of this smartwatch.

Garmin Forerunner 735XT

(Most Durable)

See the Price on Amazon

The Garmin Forerunner 735XT is made from exceptionally durable material that can withstand severe weather conditions. That means you can wear it under tough environments without worrying about damage.

Besides, this waterproof smartwatch is equipped with advanced GPS and various sport modes. These features help you a lot in your training. It can measure your pace, speed with the wrist-based heart rate monitor.

What’s more, the Garmin Forerunner 735XT records all the activities metrics and gives you stats analysis. From that, you can adjust your training plan to have a more suitable route.

Fitbit Ionic

(Best Value for the Money)

See the Price on Amazon

One of the most excellent features of the Fitbit Ionic is its step coach. It allows you to measure your steps, then customize suitable plans to help you have better training.

Moreover, you can track your real-time routes, distance, swims, etc. while doing outdoor activities with the advanced built-in GPS and heart rate monitor. Consequently, you can build your own fitness plan that is suitable for your current health situation.

Besides, you can get essential notifications, including calls and messages and access other useful apps. Another plus of the Fitbit Ionic is its multi-day battery life, which can last over 4 days, varying on your uses.

Fossil Women’s Sport Waterproof Smartwatch

(Best for Women)

See the Price on Amazon

The Fossil Women’s Sport waterproof smartwatch comes with a bit small band size and super-lightweight design, making it suitable for women.

Like other waterproof smartwatches in this list, you can expect the heart rate monitoring feature with this smartwatch. It can even track swim sessions thanks to its high waterproof depth rate that is 50 meters.

Besides, the Fossil Women’s Sport is equipped with unique untethered GPS, allowing you to measure your pace, distance without your phone. Another huge advantage of this smartwatch is its compatibility with iOS and Android devices.

Choosing the Best Waterproof Smartwatch for Swimming

Waterproof smartwatches are the perfect combination of a smartwatch with a swim-proof function. Therefore, you need to pay attention to some essential features to make the right decision.

The criteria include not only features of smartwatches, but they also come with activity tracking capabilities, water-proof depth rate, cost, etc. To know the details, let’s read through the below factors.

Waterproof vs. Water-resistant

This is one of the most controversial and confusing things to look for in a waterproof smartwatch. If you don’t tell them apart, it can cause serious damage.

The first term, water-resistant, is the lowest level of protection that a smartwatch can prevent water penetration at a certain depth rate and to some extent. That means water can still infiltrate into the smartwatch.

In contrast, water-proof is considered better at blocking water entering the smartwatch. However, that is not always true. In fact, no smartwatch manufacturer affirms that their products are completely waterproof.

So, what should we do?

You can know more precisely about how waterproof a smartwatch is by looking at the smartwatch’s IP and ATM ratings.

Ingress Protection (IP) is a rating that lets you know the level of protection against liquids and solids. It comes with 2 numbers, for instance, IP68. And the higher the number, the better the rating is.

The first number refers to sand, dust, etc., while the other number mentions liquids in general, such as water. Click here for more details about IP ratings.

Atmosphere Measurement (ATM) focuses more on the depth pressure that a smartwatch can withstand. 1 ATM usually equals 10 meters. That means if the smartwatch comes with a 10ATM, you can take your smartwatch to a depth of 100 meters.

You can check more information about ATM ratings here.

Activity Tracking

Besides the waterproof rating, you also need to consider other activities tracking features when looking for a smartwatch. Some crucial features will help you improve your swimming performance. Some are equipped to measure your calories burned, sleep quality, etc.

No matter extra tracking features that a waterproof smartwatch has, they are all important to your health and fitness lifestyle. You can look out for waterproof smartwatches with the combining of such tracking functions.

Operating System & Apps

One of the most important questions you need to ask yourself before deciding which waterproof smartwatch you should buy is if it is compatible with your smartphone. You have to note that not all smartwatches match all available smartphones.

Some of the popular operating systems include iOS, Android, Fitbit OS, Garmin OS, Tizen for Wearables, etc. Since Android and iOS are two of the most popular OS, most smartwatches can work with both or at least one of them.

Nevertheless, some waterproof smartwatches only work with certain devices from the same brand. Therefore, remember to check the compatibility of your smartphone with the smartwatch that you’re going to buy to ensure that it works well.

Cost

Cost is always crucial when we talk about purchasing anything, especially high-tech products like waterproof smartwatches.

You may want to spend more initially; however, it will save you a lot in the long run. The more money you invest in these smartwatches, the longer you can use it. However, it doesn’t mean lower-priced models can’t last long.

The most important is your priority. You should consider what the essential feature you’re looking for in a waterproof smartwatch. It seems that cheaper models have fewer features than a more expensive one, but they are still equipped with basic functions.

For example, you can seriously consider the Fitbit Charge 3 Waterproof Smartwatch on this list. It costs you less than $100 but provides many useful functionalities for your swimming and other daily activities tracking features.

Besides these 4 crucial criteria, there are still many things you should look at before making the final decision, including materials, battery life, other functions like GPS, etc.

You can scroll up to the comparison table to see these features. You can find this information on the official websites of the waterproof smartwatches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

By now, I have given the essential factors to look for when buying waterproof smartwatches for swimming. I know there are still many queries that make you confused. Don’t let you wait longer. I’d like to give answers to some of the most frequently asked questions in the below section.

Swim Network Overview

In the quest for swimming improvement, many people search for the best waterproof smartwatches for indoor swimming and open water. The best model is not the one from a reputable brand or expensive units, but it depends highly on your priority, purposes, and budget.

As all things considered, I’d like to recommend the Apple Watch Series 5. It can be used for both pool and open water tracking. This feature, I believe, meets almost the demand of swimming enthusiasts.

What if you’re on a budget tight? My suggested product is the Withings Steel HR Hybrid. The Fitbit Versa 2 will be more suitable for those seeking a health tracker with a heart rate monitor.

Have you ever used a smartwatch for swimming tracking? Has it enhanced your performance? I’d love to hear your experience in using these smartwatches. If not, let’s try one of the models on my list. I’m sure you will find your suitable one.