The Best Waterproof Fitness Trackers for 2024
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Any fitness tracker worth considering should resist moisture and splashes, but the best waterproof fitness trackers are sealed and submersible to survive a consistent soaking. Models meant for diving and high-velocity water sports require even more protection. We've been reviewing fitness trackers for more than a decade and have rigorously tested every model on this list, so you've come to the right place when searching for the right wearable for your needs and budget. Our top pick, the Fitbit Charge 6, is water resistant to 164 feet deep and automatically recognizes and tracks swimming workouts. If you need an even more durable device you can wear while scuba diving or waterskiing, or if you want something with smartwatch capabilities, our list of the best waterproof fitness trackers has you covered, with options covering a variety of features, prices, and styles. Read on to find your perfect fit.
What to Look For in a Waterproof Fitness Tracker
You don't need to settle for merely waterproof. The same seals that keep water from ruining the electronics in swim-friendly fitness trackers also protect them from water pressure. Most waterproof fitness trackers are rated for a certain depth. Typically, these devices have a 5ATM rating, which means you can plunge them up to 164 feet underwater. Some have a lesser 3ATM rating, meaning they are submersible up to 98 feet. However, a 5ATM rating does not make a watch safe for scuba diving. Samsung says devices certified to 5ATM can only withstand depths up to 164 feet for 10 minutes.
You should consider what you want your tracker to do. Are you more interested in viewing your data during or after a workout? If you want to keep an eye on your laps while you're in the pool, you should look for a tracker with a bright screen. You should also make sure it's capable of responding to your strokes underwater.
Another thing to keep in mind is how swim-centric you want your device to be. If swimming is your primary source of exercise, verify that your tracker supports multiple underwater activities.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is one of the most water-friendly models on this list, with a WR100 rating, which means it can withstand depths of up to 328 feet—twice that of the Series 10. The Ultra 2 is suitable for high-speed water sports like kitesurfing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing. The Ultra 2 is also certified to the EN13319 international standard for dive computers and gauges, meaning it's safe for recreational scuba diving descents down to 130 feet.
What Are the Best Smartwatches for Swimmers?
The line between fitness trackers and smartwatches is increasingly blurry. These days, many of the big smartwatches feature heart rate monitors and GPS, just like fitness trackers. Add a waterproof build, and many become suitable for use in the pool and ocean.
An additional benefit is that they tend to be more stylish than their fitness-focused counterparts. After you towel off, you can easily switch your swim-friendly silicone strap for a classier metal or leather band.
Most of the models on this list are safe for swimming in a pool or the ocean as well as wearing in the shower or a hot tub, but be sure to check our reviews for water resistance details. With the exception of the Ultra and the Ultra 2, Apple Watches are not suitable for scuba diving, water skiing, or other high-velocity water sports.
Which Fitbits Are Waterproof?
The good news is that all Fitbit trackers and smartwatches are water-resistant: They can handle rain, sweat, and faucet pressure. Some older Fitbits were not safe for swimming, but all current models in Fitbit's lineup are. That includes the Charge 6, Inspire 3, Sense 2, Versa 4, and the kid-friendly Ace LTE and Ace 3. You can wear them in the pool and they can track swimming stats like lap counts, pace, and total duration.
Regardless of brand, be sure to remove your wearable after it gets wet and wait for it and your wrist to completely dry before putting it back on. Most waterproof wearables are safe to wear in the shower, but soap can cause damage to some materials, so be careful when sudsing up.
For more options, check out our list of the best fitness trackers overall. To better understand how manufacturers rate gadgets for durability, check out our explainer on IP ratings.
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