Which smartwatch is best for swimming?

If you're looking for the best smartwatch for swimming, the Apple Watch Series 9 is top of the list due to its exceptional water resistance, fitness tracking accuracy, and robust swimming-specific features.

What is the best waterproof smartwatch?

Waterproof doesn’t always mean you can swim with it. A smartwatch should have a rating of at least 5 ATM or IP68 to be truly swim-ready. The Apple Watch Series 9 and Garmin Swim 2 lead the market for waterproof functionality.

Understanding ATM Ratings

ATM stands for atmosphere, and it’s used to measure pressure. A 5 ATM rating means the watch can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 metres. This is the minimum requirement for a swimming-compatible smartwatch.

Best Waterproof Smartwatches Comparison

Smartwatch	Water Resistance	Swim Tracking	Battery Life	Price (UK)
Apple Watch Series 9	50m (WR50)	Yes, indoor & open water	18 hours	£399+
Garmin Swim 2	5 ATM	Yes	7 days	£219+
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6	IP68 + 5 ATM	Yes, automatic recognition	40 hours	£289+
Fitbit Versa 4	5 ATM	Basic swim metrics	6+ days	£179+
Huawei Watch GT 3	5 ATM	Yes	14 days	£199+

Can I swim with a smartwatch?

Yes, but only if it's specifically designed with proper waterproofing. Most smartwatches that are water-resistant are only suitable for rain or showering. A smartwatch suitable for swimming must include swim modes and specific hardware sealing.

How to Identify Swim-Ready Watches

Always check the water resistance rating in the specs. Look for swim tracking options in the app or interface. Test the watch in shallow waters before long swims to ensure performance.

Smartwatch Features That Matter to Swimmers

For the avid swimmer, more than water resistance is needed. Swim tracking features and long battery life are key differentiators. A good swimming watch will also include heart rate monitoring, stroke detection, and lap counting.

Top Features for Swim Tracking

• Stroke count
• Lap tracking
• Heart rate monitoring
• Open water GPS
• Auto Swim detection

Advanced Sensors and Accuracy

The newest Apple Watch Series 9 includes a dual-core S9 chip for super-fast processing. Garmin Swim 2 uses Elevate wrist-based heart tracking, even underwater. These features make your swim analytics accurate and actionable.

Best Smartwatches by Swimming Style

Different swimmers have different priorities depending on their training level. Whether you're practising laps or swimming in the sea, your smartwatch should match. Let's break it down by amateur, intermediate, and advanced swimmers.

Amateur Swimmer Recommendations

Fitbit Versa 4 gives beginners basic tracking and long battery life. It's excellent for occasional pool users. Huawei Watch GT 3 is another good fit, offering a more intuitive interface for new swimmers.

Intermediate Swimmer Picks

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 has better sensors and high swim tracking accuracy. It auto-detects swimming and adapts tracking modes accordingly. Its IP68 rating ensures extra safety in both pool and open water scenarios.

Advanced and Competitive Swimmer Options

The Apple Watch Series 9 excels here with detailed analytics and dynamic workouts. Garmin Swim 2 is purpose-built for competitive swim tracking accuracy. Both offer superior stroke recognition and open water calibration.

Apple Watch vs. Garmin: Which Is Better for Swimming?

Apple Watch Series 9 integrates tightly with the iPhone ecosystem. It enables water lock mode, stroke tracking, and open water swimming. Garmin Swim 2 has longer battery life and better precision for serious athletes.

Battery Life and Charge Needs

Apple lasts 18 hours, enough for daily use plus a swim. Garmin delivers up to a week on a single charge. More battery means fewer worries about mid-workout shutdowns.

User Experience and Display

Apple's Retina display adjusts under water for readability. Garmin shows essential data using sharp MIP (memory-in-pixel) technology. Both are durable and reactive to underwater touch interactions.

Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant – Know the Difference

‘Water-resistant’ only protects the watch from splashes. ‘Waterproof’ smartwatches are sealed against pressure and intended for submersion. Water resistance ratings clearly differentiate between the two for consumer awareness.

Don't Risk It – Check the Rating

Always make sure the smartwatch is WR50 or 5 ATM or higher. Never assume even top brands are swim-ready without this certification. Regular water exposure without the correct rating will void most warranties.

Protecting Your Smartwatch While Swimming

Using a high-quality strap ensures stability during laps. Choose secure and water-tolerant bands like silicone or fluoroelastomer. Consider one of our Apple Watch accessories to extend the life of your swimming tech.

Suggested Straps for Swim Use

• Silicone rubber
• Fluoroelastomer sport band
• Waterproof nylon loop

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it OK to swim with an Apple Watch?

Yes, all Apple Watches from Series 2 onwards are swim-proof and WR50 water-resistant.

Which Garmin watch is best for swimming?

The Garmin Swim 2 is specifically designed for pool and open water swimming with accurate stroke tracking.

Can Fitbit track swimming well?

Fitbit Versa models track laps and duration but lack advanced stroke metrics compared to Apple or Garmin.

Do smartwatches count swim strokes?

Yes, high-end models like Garmin Swim 2 and Apple Watch Series 9 count strokes as part of swim analytics.

Conclusion: Which smartwatch is best for swimming?

For its blend of feature accuracy, water resistance, and usability, the Apple Watch Series 9 takes the crown. It’s ideal for both casual and advanced swimmers. But if battery life and analytic depth matter more, the Garmin Swim 2 is a highly capable alternative.