In the world of fitness tracking, swimmers often face a unique challenge. While many trackers can withstand light water exposure, only a select few can endure laps in the pool or open water. A quality waterproof fitness tracker for swimming can provide detailed metrics, like lap count, stroke type, and calories burned, helping you enhance your swimming performance. This article delves into the best waterproof fitness trackers for swimming available in 2024, considering accuracy, durability, and user-friendliness to help you make an informed choice.
Why Do Swimmers Need a Waterproof Fitness Tracker?
Swimming is a low-impact, full-body workout that offers countless health benefits, from improved cardiovascular fitness to enhanced muscular strength. A waterproof fitness tracker tailored for swimming can help you track:
- Lap counts and distances for better pacing.
- Calories burned to optimize energy expenditure.
- Heart rate tracking (especially for models with optical sensors that function underwater).
- Stroke detection and efficiency metrics for fine-tuning technique.
Key Features to Look For in a Swimming Fitness Tracker
To find the perfect fit, look for a tracker that includes:
- Water Resistance: Opt for devices rated at least 5 ATM (50 meters).
- Tracking Metrics: Laps, stroke recognition, SWOLF (a measure of swimming efficiency).
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Reliable underwater heart rate tracking.
- Battery Life: Ideally, lasting multiple swim sessions before needing a recharge.
- Comfort and Durability: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant materials are a plus.
Top Waterproof Fitness Trackers for Swimming
Here’s a list of the top-rated waterproof fitness trackers for swimming in 2024, complete with detailed comparisons of features and ratings.
| Fitness Tracker | Waterproof Rating | Metrics Tracked | Battery Life | User Rating | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin Swim 2 | 5 ATM | Distance, Stroke, SWOLF, Heart Rate | 7 Days | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $249 |
| Apple Watch Series 8 | 5 ATM | Laps, Strokes, Heart Rate, VO₂ Max | 18 Hours | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $399 |
| Fitbit Charge 5 | 5 ATM | Distance, Calories, Heart Rate | 7 Days | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $179 |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 | 5 ATM | Stroke, Distance, Calories | 3 Days | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $279 |
| Amazfit T-Rex 2 | 10 ATM | Distance, Calories | 24 Days | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | $229 |
1. Garmin Swim 2
The Garmin Swim 2 is specifically designed for swimmers, and it offers one of the most comprehensive tracking systems. Its standout features include accurate heart rate monitoring underwater and advanced swim tracking capabilities like stroke count and SWOLF analysis.
- Pros: Lightweight design, excellent swim metrics, long battery life.
- Cons: Limited smartwatch features compared to competitors.
Ideal For: Dedicated swimmers who prioritize in-depth swimming metrics over all-in-one smartwatch functions.
2. Apple Watch Series 8
The Apple Watch Series 8 is a top choice for anyone looking for a multipurpose device that performs well in the pool. It tracks laps, strokes, and heart rate with precision and offers advanced fitness metrics like VO₂ Max. Additionally, it supports the Fitness+ app, providing a more tailored workout experience.
- Pros: Advanced metrics, versatile smartwatch functions, integrates with Apple’s ecosystem.
- Cons: Relatively shorter battery life, high price.
Ideal For: Fitness enthusiasts who swim regularly but also want a comprehensive smartwatch experience.
3. Fitbit Charge 5
The Fitbit Charge 5 may not be as feature-packed as dedicated swimming trackers, but it offers enough for recreational swimmers. It tracks basic metrics such as distance, calories burned, and heart rate.
- Pros: Affordable, long battery life, sleep tracking.
- Cons: Limited swim-specific metrics.
Ideal For: Casual swimmers looking for an affordable fitness tracker with basic swimming capabilities.
4. Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 provides a robust fitness tracking experience for both land and water activities. It measures stroke count, distance, and calories, and has GPS for open water swimming.
- Pros: Stylish design, good swim tracking capabilities, GPS.
- Cons: Moderate battery life.
Ideal For: Swimmers who also enjoy various land-based workouts and want a stylish smartwatch.
5. Amazfit T-Rex 2
With its rugged build, the Amazfit T-Rex 2 is perfect for swimmers who engage in outdoor swimming or triathlons. Its 10 ATM rating provides higher water resistance than many competitors, and the battery life is impressive, lasting up to 24 days.
- Pros: Excellent durability, extreme water resistance, long battery life.
- Cons: Lacks some of the advanced swim metrics found in other trackers.
Ideal For: Adventure-loving swimmers who want a highly durable device.
Comparison Table for Key Metrics
| Feature | Garmin Swim 2 | Apple Watch Series 8 | Fitbit Charge 5 | Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 | Amazfit T-Rex 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | 7 Days | 18 Hours | 7 Days | 3 Days | 24 Days |
| Stroke Tracking | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Heart Rate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| SWOLF | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
| Price | $249 | $399 | $179 | $279 | $229 |
Tips for Choosing the Right Waterproof Tracker
- Assess Your Swimming Needs: If you’re a professional swimmer, opt for a tracker like the Garmin Swim 2 or Apple Watch Series 8, which provide more in-depth metrics.
- Consider Battery Life: Swimmers who spend long hours in the pool should prioritize models with extended battery life.
- Fit and Comfort: A well-fitted, lightweight watch is crucial for swimmers who don’t want to be distracted by their device.
- Durability: Choose a tracker that can withstand chlorine, saltwater, and general wear-and-tear, especially for open water swimming.
Final Verdict: Which Tracker is Best for You?
- For Competitive Swimmers: The Garmin Swim 2 is the best option for those who require comprehensive swimming data.
- For Multi-Sport Enthusiasts: The Apple Watch Series 8 offers a balanced approach, providing both land and water-based activity tracking.
- For Budget-Conscious Users: The Fitbit Charge 5 offers fundamental swim metrics at a more affordable price point.
- For Rugged Durability: The Amazfit T-Rex 2 is a strong contender, especially for open water swimmers or triathletes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I wear a waterproof fitness tracker in saltwater?
A: Most waterproof trackers are saltwater-resistant, but it’s a good idea to rinse them with fresh water afterward.
Q2: How often should I charge my waterproof tracker?
A: It depends on the model. The Apple Watch, for instance, needs daily charging, while models like the Amazfit T-Rex 2 can last weeks on a single charge.
Q3: Is heart rate monitoring accurate underwater?
A: Heart rate monitoring underwater varies by model and can be less accurate than on land due to sensor limitations.
References
- “Best Fitness Trackers for Swimming in 2024” – TechRadar, https://www.techradar.com/fitness-trackers-swimming (2024)
- “Waterproof Trackers with Advanced Metrics for Swimmers” – Digital Trends, https://www.digitaltrends.com/best-waterproof-trackers (2024)
- “Choosing the Right Fitness Tracker for Swimmers” – PCMag, https://www.pcmag.com/fitness-tracker-swimming (2024)
- “Top Fitness Watches for Swimming and Diving” – Wareable, https://www.wareable.com/swimming-fitness-watches (2024)
