How to Choose a Waterproof Smart Watch for Swimming

Swimming is one of the best full-body workouts, and tracking your performance in the water can help you improve stamina, pace, and technique. A waterproof smart watch for swimming is a powerful tool that not only tracks your laps but also provides insights into your swim metrics.

Choosing the right smart watch for swimming one can be overwhelming given the variety of models and features available. Whether you are a professional swimmer or a casual lap enthusiast, this guide will help you find the best smartwatch for swimming that suits your budget and needs.

Why You Need a Waterproof Smart Watch for Swimming

Unlike general-purpose wearables, a swimming watch tracker is designed to endure submersion, recognize swim strokes, and calculate lap times, SWOLF (swim efficiency), distance, and more.

Many standard smartwatches claim to be water-resistant, but only specific models are built for aquatic performance.

Here is why you should invest in a dedicated waterproof swimming watch:

• Accurate metrics for laps, strokes, distance, pace, and calories.
• Waterproof rating to ensure safety during long swim sessions.
• Heart rate monitoring even while underwater (in some models).
• Compatibility with fitness apps for deeper insights.
• GPS tracking for open-water swimming.

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Waterproof Smart Watch for Swimming

1. Consider the Waterproof Rating

The first step in choosing a waterproof smart watch for swimming is checking its waterproof rating. Look for watches rated at least 5 ATM (50 meters) or higher.

A 5 ATM rating means the watch can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters, making it suitable for surface swimming.

Avoid watches labeled just “water-resistant,” as they may only handle splashes or brief immersion.

2. Prioritize Swimming-Specific Features

When comparing options, focus on swim-specific capabilities. The best smartwatch for swimming should offer:

• Automatic stroke detection (freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, butterfly).
• Lap counting and distance tracking in pools of varying lengths.
• SWOLF score to measure swim efficiency.
• Rest timers and interval timers for structured workouts.
• Heart rate monitoring (optical or external sensor-based).

A top model that covers most of these features is the Garmin Swim 2, designed specifically for swimmers.

3. Garmin Swim 2 – A Top Pick

The Garmin Swim 2 smart watch is one of the most recommended options in the market for serious swimmers. This lightweight and sleek swimming tracker offers both pool and open water tracking, thanks to its built-in GPS.

Here is why the Garmin Swim 2 stands out as the best smartwatch for swimming:

• Pool and open-water swim modes
• Advanced swim metrics including pace, distance, stroke count, SWOLF
• Built-in GPS for open water swim tracking
• Wrist-based heart rate monitoring even underwater
• Smart notifications for calls, texts, and app alerts
• Long battery life (up to 7 days in smartwatch mode)

If you want a specialized, reliable, and feature-rich swim watch, the Garmin Swim 2 is hard to beat.

4. Compatibility: Android and iOS

Ensure the smartwatch you choose is compatible with your smartphone. If you are an Android user, go for a waterproof smart watch for Android, like Samsung Galaxy Watch or Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5, that syncs smoothly with Google Fit or third-party fitness apps.

Some of the best waterproof smartwatches compatible with Android include:

• Garmin Swim 2 – works with both Android and iOS.
• Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 – offers 5 ATM water resistance and strong health tracking.
• Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 – dual-layer display, extensive health support and long battery life
• Amazfit GTS 4 – affordable and swim-friendly with 5 ATM rating.

Make sure the companion app allows easy syncing, analysis, and sharing of swim data.

5. Budget: Cheap Swimming Watch Options

If you are on a tight budget but still want reliable swim tracking, there are plenty of cheap swimming watch options to consider. These might not offer all the bells and whistles, but they cover the basics effectively.

Some great affordable picks:

• Xiaomi Mi Band 8 – 5 ATM rating, basic swim tracking, and long battery life.
• Amazfit Bip 3 Pro – swim-proof with GPS and customizable swim modes.
• Huawei Band 8 – budget-friendly, tracks laps, and offers decent insights.

These are ideal for beginners or casual swimmers who want basic tracking without breaking the bank.

6. Open Water vs Pool Swimming

When choosing a swimming watch tracker, consider your environment:

• Pool swimmers need lap counting, stroke recognition, and rest timers.
• Open-water swimmers should look for GPS capability and route tracking.

Watches like the Garmin Swim 2 and Apple Watch Series 9 (with GPS) offer excellent open-water swim tracking.

7. Comfort and Display

You will be wearing your smartwatch during intense workouts, so comfort is crucial. Choose a lightweight watch with a silicone or soft band that won’t irritate your skin.

Also, consider display readability underwater. A bright, high-contrast screen that remains visible while swimming is ideal. Some watches offer always-on displays and water-lock modes to prevent accidental touches during swims.

8. Battery Life

Long battery life ensures your watch won’t die mid-swim. The best watches offer multiple days of battery life even with GPS and swim tracking on.

• Garmin Swim 2: Up to 7 days in smartwatch mode
• Amazfit GTS 4: Up to 8 days
• Samsung Galaxy Watch 5: Up to 2 days

More battery life means more convenience and fewer charging sessions.

9. Smartwatch Features

A waterproof smartwatch for swimming can also double as a daily smartwatch. Many models offer:

• Call and text notifications
• Calendar alerts
• Music control
• Fitness and sleep tracking
• Third-party app integration

The added functionality makes it easier to track your entire wellness journey beyond the pool.

What’s the Best Watch for Swimming?

Choosing the best smartwatch for swimming depends on your level of activity, preferred swim environment, and budget. Here is a quick summary based on needs:

Use Case	Recommended Smartwatch
Best overall swimming features	Garmin Swim 2
Budget-friendly	Xiaomi Mi Band 8 / Amazfit Bip 3 Pro
Android compatible	Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
For open water swimming	Garmin Swim 2 / Apple Watch Series 9
Pool swim tracking (beginners)	Huawei Band 8

Closing Remarks

Choosing the right waterproof smart watch for swimming helps you track your progress and improve performance in the water. Focus on key features like swim tracking accuracy, waterproof rating, and battery life to find a watch that fits your needs.

If you want advanced swim features, the Garmin Swim 2 is a top choice. For casual swimmers or those on a budget, a cheap swimming watch like the Amazfit Bip 3 Pro still delivers great value and reliable tracking.

The best smartwatch for swimming is one that matches your goals, whether you’re in a pool or open water. With the right swimming watch tracker, you can swim smarter, stay motivated, and reach new milestones.