7 Best Water-Resistant Fitness Trackers for Swim Monitoring That Transform Your Training

Looking to track your swimming performance without worrying about water damage? Today’s advanced fitness trackers offer impressive water resistance, precise swim metrics, and durability that can withstand even your most intense pool workouts.

We’ve tested dozens of devices to identify the seven best water-resistant fitness trackers specifically designed for swim monitoring, evaluating them based on depth rating, stroke recognition accuracy, and battery life during water activities. These top-performing trackers will help you analyze your swimming efficiency, count laps automatically, and provide the motivation you need to reach your aquatic fitness goals.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

Why Water-Resistant Fitness Trackers Are Essential for Swimmers

Traditional fitness trackers can’t withstand the harsh pool environment, making water-resistant trackers indispensable for swimmers. These specialized devices offer multiple benefits that enhance your swimming experience and training efficiency.

Water-resistant trackers accurately monitor your swimming metrics like stroke count, lap time, and distance covered—data that’s impossible to track manually while swimming. You’ll gain valuable insights into your technique and performance without interrupting your workout.

Most water-optimized trackers feature specialized algorithms that detect and differentiate between swimming styles, including freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, and butterfly. This automatic recognition helps you analyze which strokes need improvement and track your efficiency across different techniques.

Pool sessions demand equipment that can withstand chlorine, salt water, and frequent submersion. Quality water-resistant trackers are built with durable materials specifically designed to prevent water damage to sensitive electronic components while maintaining accurate readings in wet conditions.

The ability to track heart rate while swimming provides crucial data about your cardiovascular performance and workout intensity. Water-resistant trackers with this capability help you maintain target heart rate zones during aquatic workouts, maximizing your training effectiveness.

Swimming burns significant calories, and water-resistant trackers can accurately calculate your energy expenditure during water workouts. This information helps you maintain proper nutrition and recovery protocols to support your swimming training regimen.

Many swimmers find motivation in seeing their progress visualized. Water-resistant trackers sync with smartphone apps to display comprehensive analytics of your swimming sessions, allowing you to set goals, track improvements, and stay committed to your aquatic fitness journey.

Understanding Water Resistance Ratings in Fitness Trackers

Before diving into specific tracker recommendations, it’s crucial to understand what water resistance ratings actually mean for your swimming experience. These ratings determine how well your fitness tracker will function during water activities.

IP Ratings Explained

IP (Ingress Protection) ratings measure a device’s resistance to solids and liquids. For fitness trackers, the water protection component is key:

IPX7: Withstands submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes
IPX8: Survives deeper submersion (specific depth and duration vary by manufacturer)

While important, IP ratings aren’t as commonly used for swim trackers as ATM measurements.

ATM Ratings and Swim-Proofing

ATM (Atmospheres) ratings are the standard for swim-capable fitness trackers:

5ATM: Water-resistant to 50 meters, suitable for pool swimming and snorkeling
10ATM: Water-resistant to 100 meters, ideal for high-speed water sports and deeper diving

The higher the ATM rating, the more water pressure your device can handle during active swimming sessions.

The Top 7 Water-Resistant Fitness Trackers for Swim Monitoring

Apple Watch Series 8

The Apple Watch Series 8 excels as a premium swim tracker with water resistance up to 50 meters. It accurately tracks laps, distance, heart rate, calories burned, and even monitors kick sets when using a kickboard—a feature unique to Apple. You’ll appreciate its comprehensive swimming metrics that help analyze your performance while maintaining exceptional accuracy in both pool and open water environments.

Garmin Swim 2

Designed specifically for swimmers, the Garmin Swim 2 offers water resistance to 50 meters with specialized tracking features. It monitors core stats like distance, lengths, pace, and stroke type while calculating SWOLF scores to measure your swimming efficiency. You can set up custom workouts and drills, then export your data to apps like Strava and Garmin Connect for detailed analysis of your swimming progress.

Fitbit Versa 3

The Fitbit Versa 3 provides reliable swim tracking with water resistance up to 50 meters for pool sessions. While not as swim-focused as some competitors, it effectively tracks basic swimming metrics alongside its comprehensive fitness features. You’ll benefit from its built-in GPS for open-water swims and continuous heart rate monitoring, all accessible through Fitbit’s user-friendly interface that displays your swimming data alongside other health metrics.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4

Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 4 offers dependable water resistance for regular swimming sessions with basic swim tracking capabilities. It captures essential metrics through its built-in GPS and fitness tracking functions, though it doesn’t specialize in advanced swimming analytics. You’ll find it integrates seamlessly with Samsung smartphones while providing adequate swim tracking alongside its comprehensive suite of smartwatch and fitness features.

Polar Grit X Pro

The Polar Grit X Pro stands out with exceptional water resistance rated to 100 meters—double that of most competitors. This rugged multisport watch tracks swimming alongside other endurance activities with detailed metrics on heart rate, distance, and pace. You’ll appreciate its durability for open water swimming adventures, though it lacks some of the swim-specific features found in dedicated swim trackers.

Coros Pace 2

The Coros Pace 2 delivers reliable swim tracking within its impressively lightweight design and 50-meter water resistance rating. It tracks essential swimming metrics while offering exceptional battery life that outlasts most competitors during long training sessions. You’ll benefit from its accurate GPS tracking for open water swims, though it provides fewer swim-specific analytics than specialized models from Garmin or Apple.

Suunto 9 Peak

The Suunto 9 Peak impresses with premium construction and robust 100-meter water resistance for serious aquatic adventures. This multisport watch handles both pool and open water swimming with reliable tracking of essential metrics. You’ll value its exceptional build quality and battery endurance for long-distance swims, though like other general fitness trackers, it doesn’t offer the swim-specific feature depth of dedicated swimming watches.

Key Features to Look for in Swim-Tracking Devices

Stroke Detection and Analysis

The best swim trackers automatically identify different swimming styles like freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly. Advanced devices like the FORM Smart Swim Goggles provide real-time technique analysis, showing stroke count and rate directly in your field of vision. Look for trackers that calculate SWOLF scores (swimming efficiency) to help improve your technique and reduce energy expenditure during workouts.

Distance and Lap Counting

Accurate distance tracking eliminates the mental burden of counting laps while swimming. Premium devices like the Garmin Forerunner 945 precisely track pool lengths, distance covered, and split times with minimal margin of error. The best trackers allow you to set custom pool lengths and automatically detect rest periods between intervals, giving you comprehensive data about your training session without manual input.

Heart Rate Monitoring Underwater

Water-based heart rate monitoring presents unique challenges due to water pressure and movement. While wrist-based sensors work adequately for moderate swimming, serious training benefits from external chest straps like Polar’s OH1, which pair with devices like FORM goggles. For maximum accuracy, look for trackers that offer both built-in monitoring and external sensor compatibility to ensure reliable heart rate data during intense swimming sessions.

How to Maintain Your Water-Resistant Fitness Tracker

Cleaning

Regularly clean your fitness tracker with a soft cloth and mild soap to remove sweat, dirt, and chlorine residue. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the water-resistant seals or scratch the display. For stubborn buildup around buttons or sensors, use a soft-bristled toothbrush with gentle pressure.

Drying

Always thoroughly dry your tracker after swimming or exposure to water, giving special attention to the charging port and sensor areas. Pat dry with a microfiber cloth rather than using heat sources like hair dryers which can damage internal components. Allow the device to air dry completely before storing or charging.

Charging Port Care

Ensure the charging port is 100% dry before connecting to any power source. Water in the charging contacts can cause corrosion, short circuits, or permanent damage to your device. If your tracker has exposed charging pins, inspect them regularly for signs of corrosion and clean gently with a cotton swab.

Software Updates

Keep your fitness tracker’s firmware and companion app updated to the latest versions. Manufacturers frequently release updates that improve water resistance algorithms and swimming metrics accuracy. These updates often contain important fixes for tracking accuracy and device longevity in aquatic environments.

Battery Care

Follow the manufacturer’s specific guidelines for battery maintenance. Avoid letting the battery drain completely before recharging, and don’t leave the device plugged in for extended periods after reaching full charge. Proper battery management extends the overall lifespan of your water-resistant tracker.

Physical Protection

Use protective cases or screen guards designed specifically for your tracker model when engaging in high-impact water activities. Even water-resistant devices can be damaged by hard impacts against pool walls or rocks during open water swimming. When not worn, store in a protective case.

Storage

Store your tracker in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use for extended periods. Extreme temperatures can degrade water-resistant seals over time. If storing long-term, ensure the battery maintains a partial charge (around 50%) to prevent battery degradation.

Best Budget-Friendly Options for Swim Monitoring

Fitbit Inspire 3

The Fitbit Inspire 3 stands out as an excellent budget-friendly option for swim tracking. This slim, lightweight tracker automatically detects swimming activities as soon as you dive in, recording your lengths, distance, and overall pace without any manual input. You can also manually track your swims through the Exercise app if you prefer more control over your sessions. While it doesn’t monitor heart rate underwater, its affordability and reliable swim metrics make it perfect for casual swimmers watching their budget.

Xiaomi Smart Band 7

The Xiaomi Smart Band 7 delivers impressive swim tracking capabilities at a fraction of the cost of premium models. With its 5ATM water-resistance rating, you can safely submerge it up to 50 meters while it tracks pool lengths, distance, calories burned, strokes, and average stroke rate. The band even automatically recognizes your main swimming style, giving you comprehensive insights into your performance. Its high-resolution AMOLED display provides clear visibility underwater, though it may become slightly unresponsive when wet. For shallow-water swimmers on a tight budget, this tracker offers exceptional value.

Garmin vívosmart 5

For swimmers seeking versatility beyond the pool, the Garmin vívosmart 5 offers excellent all-around fitness tracking with reliable waterproofing. This comfortable wearable tracks various swim metrics while also providing wrist-based heart rate monitoring, stress tracking, and Garmin’s unique body battery energy monitoring. Though it lacks some of the advanced swimming features found in dedicated swim watches, its comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities make it an ideal choice for athletes who swim regularly but also engage in other activities.

Fitbit Sense 2

While slightly pricier than other budget options, the Fitbit Sense 2 delivers exceptional value with its comprehensive swim tracking and advanced health features. This water-resistant tracker comes equipped with built-in GPS, reliable heart rate monitoring, and numerous health metrics that benefit your overall training program. The intuitive interface makes it easy to track your swimming progress, though some advanced features require a Fitbit Premium subscription. For swimmers looking for a more feature-rich experience without breaking the bank, the Sense 2 strikes an excellent balance.

Form Smart Swim Goggles

The Form Smart Swim Goggles offer a unique alternative to traditional wrist-worn trackers for budget-conscious swimmers focused primarily on pool performance. These innovative goggles track length and stroke stats while displaying real-time metrics directly in your line of sight as you swim. With 16 hours of battery life and compatibility with select heart rate monitors, they provide detailed swimming analytics without requiring a separate wrist device. For dedicated swimmers who prioritize swimming data over general fitness tracking, these goggles represent a specialized but cost-effective investment.

Comparing Battery Life in Water-Resistant Trackers

Battery life becomes even more crucial when you’re tracking swimming workouts. Here’s how the top water-resistant fitness trackers compare when it comes to longevity between charges:

Fitbit Inspire 3: Delivers around 10 days of typical use, maintaining performance during swim sessions without significant battery drain.
Garmin Forerunner 945: Impressive two-week battery life in smartwatch mode, though this decreases with GPS use during open-water swims.
Xiaomi Smart Band 7: Offers up to 14 days per charge, with minimal impact from swim tracking activities.
Form Smart Swim Goggles: Provides 16 hours of active tracking – specifically designed for swimming with real-time metrics displayed in your line of sight.
Polar Ignite 3: Lasts up to 5 days with continuous heart rate monitoring and GPS functionality, handling swim tracking without major battery reduction.
Amazfit T-Rex 2: Boasts an exceptional 24-day battery in basic watch mode, though regular swim tracking will decrease this somewhat.
Garmin vívosmart 5: Delivers a reliable 7-day battery life, including water activities without significant power impact.

All these trackers are engineered to handle swimming without excessive battery drain, letting you focus on your workout rather than worrying about charging.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Waterproof Fitness Tracker for Your Swimming Goals

Finding the perfect water-resistant fitness tracker can transform your swimming experience. Whether you’re a competitive swimmer tracking precise metrics or a casual enthusiast monitoring basic stats you’ll benefit from these specialized devices.

Consider your specific needs – depth rating for your swimming environment battery life for your training schedule and the specific metrics most valuable to your goals. Don’t forget to factor in your budget as there are excellent options at various price points.

With proper maintenance and care your waterproof fitness tracker will serve as a reliable swimming companion for years to come helping you push boundaries track improvements and enjoy the water with confidence and purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes fitness trackers for swimming different from regular trackers?

Swimming fitness trackers are specifically designed with water resistance (typically 5ATM or higher), durable materials that withstand chlorine and salt water, and specialized algorithms that recognize different swim strokes. Unlike regular trackers, they can accurately measure swimming metrics like lap count, stroke efficiency, and distance while submerged. They’re built to maintain precise readings despite water pressure and movement during swimming activities.

How do water resistance ratings work for fitness trackers?

Water resistance ratings come in two forms: IP (Ingress Protection) and ATM (Atmospheres). IPX7 and IPX8 indicate basic water resistance, but ATM ratings are more relevant for swimmers. 5ATM means the device can withstand pressure at 50 meters depth (good for pool swimming), while 10ATM (100 meters) is suitable for high-speed water sports and diving. The higher the ATM rating, the better the protection during active swimming.

What is the best fitness tracker for serious swimmers?

The Garmin Swim 2 is ideal for serious swimmers as it’s specifically designed for swimming with advanced metrics like SWOLF scoring (swimming efficiency), detailed stroke analysis, and accurate tracking for both pool and open water swimming. For those wanting a premium multisport option, the Polar Grit X Pro offers exceptional 100-meter water resistance and comprehensive swim tracking alongside other endurance sport features.

Can fitness trackers accurately monitor heart rate underwater?

Underwater heart rate monitoring presents challenges due to water interference with optical sensors. Most trackers provide reasonable estimates, but accuracy varies during intense swimming. Premium devices like the Apple Watch Series 8 and Garmin Swim 2 offer improved underwater heart rate monitoring, though serious athletes might consider pairing their tracker with a waterproof chest strap for maximum accuracy during high-intensity swim sessions.

Are there affordable options for swim tracking?

Yes, several budget-friendly options provide reliable swim tracking. The Fitbit Inspire 3 offers automatic swim detection at an accessible price point. The Xiaomi Smart Band 7 delivers impressive swim metrics at a very low cost. The Garmin vívosmart 5 provides versatile tracking beyond swimming, while Form Smart Swim Goggles offer a unique experience with real-time metrics displayed in your line of sight, all without the premium price of high-end trackers.

How should I maintain my water-resistant fitness tracker?

Rinse your tracker with fresh water after swimming to remove chlorine or salt. Dry it thoroughly, especially the charging port, before connecting to power. Clean regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap (never harsh chemicals). Keep firmware updated for improved accuracy. Allow the device to dry completely before storing in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperature changes that could compromise water-resistant seals.

How long do batteries last in swim-tracking fitness trackers?

Battery life in swim trackers varies significantly between models. The Fitbit Inspire 3 lasts about 10 days, while the Garmin Forerunner 945 offers two weeks in smartwatch mode. The Xiaomi Smart Band 7 provides up to 14 days per charge, and specialized devices like Form Smart Swim Goggles deliver 16 hours of active tracking. Most swimming-capable trackers offer at least 5-7 days of regular use between charges.

Can these trackers differentiate between swimming styles?

Yes, most quality swim trackers can automatically identify different swimming styles using motion sensors and advanced algorithms. They can distinguish between freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly, providing detailed analysis for each stroke type. This feature helps swimmers understand their efficiency across different techniques and identify areas for improvement in their form and performance.