Swimming with a Fitness Tracker: Waterproof Options You’ll Love

18 June 2025

Let’s get real for a second — swimming is one of the best full-body workouts you can do. It’s low impact, great for your heart, and hey, you don’t walk out of the pool dripping in sweat (well, maybe just soaked, but you get the point). But if you're serious about tracking your progress in the water, not just on dry land, you need a fitness tracker that can keep up with your strokes — literally.

So, grab your towel and goggles! Whether you're doing laps in the pool, competing in open water races, or just floating like a majestic sea otter (no judgment), this guide has you covered. We’re diving — pun very much intended — into waterproof fitness tracker options that'll survive the splash and help you stay on track.

Why Swim With a Fitness Tracker?

First off, let’s talk about “why” before we jump into the “which.”

We all know fitness trackers are great for steps, heart rate, sleep tracking, and all that jazz. But swimming? Many early trackers were basically allergic to water. They’d freak out if you so much as looked at a puddle. Nowadays, you’ve got waterproof options that not only survive underwater but give you actual swim metrics — think lap counting, stroke recognition, SWOLF, and even heart rate monitoring while you’re submerged.

Benefits of a Waterproof Fitness Tracker:

- Accurately Tracks Swim Metrics: Know how many laps you’ve done without counting in your head (and messing up halfway).
- Improves Your Form: Some trackers can even monitor your stroke technique.
- Motivation to Swim More: Trust me, watching your stats get better is oddly addictive.
- Multisport Tracking: If you're into triathlons, these gadgets are your new bestie.

What to Look for in a Swim-Friendly Fitness Tracker

Before we cannonball into the best options, let’s lay out what features swimmers should be looking for:

1. Water Resistance Rating

Look for trackers with at least a 5 ATM rating — this means they can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters. For pool swimming, that’s more than enough. If you’re into diving or open water swimming, go even higher.

2. Swim-Specific Metrics

Generic “activity” tracking won’t cut it in the pool. You want:

- Lap counting
- Stroke detection
- SWOLF (Swimming Efficiency Score)
- Duration & distance
- Calories burned

3. Battery Life

There’s nothing worse than your tracker dying mid-swim. Look for something that can go at least a week without needing a charge — especially for regular swimmers.

4. Comfort & Fit

You don’t want anything weighing you down. Choose something sleek, lightweight, and comfy to wear under a swim cap or wetsuit if needed.

5. Bluetooth Sync & App Compatibility

That data doesn’t mean much if you can’t sync and analyze it afterward. Make sure the tracker works with an app that you like and actually want to open.

Top Waterproof Fitness Trackers for Swimming (You’re Gonna Love These)

Alrighty, let’s talk options. These fitness trackers are waterproof, smart, and downright impressive when it comes to swim tracking.

🏊 1. Garmin Swim 2 – The Swimmer’s Dream

If Garmin made a tracker just for fish, it’d be this one. The Garmin Swim 2 is a dedicated swim watch — perfect for pool or open water.

Top Features:

- Pool & open water tracking
- Automatic stroke type detection
- Underwater heart rate monitoring
- GPS enabled for open water
- SWOLF score tracking

Why You’ll Love It: This tracker is like your personal swim coach. It’s user-friendly, has great battery life (up to 7 days), and the GPS feature is perfect for those brave enough to face the ocean.

Drawback: The price. It’s a bit on the higher end, but you’re paying for quality swim-focused features.

🏊‍♀️ 2. Apple Watch Series 9 – The All-Rounder with Swim Chops

If you already live in the Apple ecosystem (hello, iPhone and AirPods), the Apple Watch Series 9 is a no-brainer. It’s stylish, smart, and yes – waterproof.

Top Features:

- Water-resistant up to 50 meters
- Pool swim & open water modes
- Auto lap counting & stroke detection
- Amazing display (even underwater!)
- Tons of non-swim features like ECG, texting, and Siri

Why You’ll Love It: It does so much more than just swim tracking, making it perfect if swimming is just part of your fitness routine.

Drawback: Battery life is kinda meh (around 18 hours), so you’ll need to charge it frequently.

🏄 3. Fitbit Charge 5 – The Sleek and Slim Choice

Fitbit’s been killing it in the fitness game, and the Charge 5 is their latest waterproof option.

Top Features:

- Swim mode (tracks duration & calories)
- Water-resistant up to 50m
- Slim, minimalist design
- Great sleep and activity tracking
- Heart rate, SpO2 & stress tracking

Why You’ll Love It: It doesn’t scream “tech gadget” and doubles as a stylish accessory. It’s perfect for casual swimmers who want basic swim tracking without fuss.

Drawback: No open water tracking or advanced swim metrics like SWOLF.

🏖️ 4. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 – The Android Favorite

Android users, don’t worry – Samsung’s got your back. Galaxy Watch 6 is not just pretty; it’s smart under pressure (and water).

Top Features:

- 5ATM & IP68 water resistance
- Swim tracking via Samsung Health
- Heart rate & advanced wellness tracking
- Beautiful AMOLED display
- Voice assistant support

Why You’ll Love It: Solid waterproofing and a gorgeous display that actually works underwater. If you're already using a Samsung phone, the integration's seamless.

Drawback: Battery life still leaves much to be desired, especially if GPS is turned on.

🏊 5. Amazfit GTS 4 – The Underdog with Impressive Skills

Looking for serious bang for your buck? The Amazfit GTS 4 is wildly underrated and packed with powerful swim-tracking features.

Top Features:

- 50-meter water resistance
- 150+ sports modes, including swim
- Stroke recognition & lap tracking
- Amazing battery (up to 8 days)
- Lightweight aluminum body

Why You’ll Love It: It’s affordable and doesn’t skimp on features. If you’re budget-conscious but still want accuracy and performance, this one’s a steal.

Drawback: The app experience isn’t as polished as Fitbit or Garmin.

Tips for Swimming with Your Fitness Tracker

Okay, now that you’ve set your sights on your next waterproof tracker, here are some quick tips to get the most out of your swims.

💡 Make Sure It’s Snug

Loose bands can mess with stroke detection and even let water pressure tinker with the sensors.

💡 Rinse After Use

Chlorine and saltwater can gunk up your tracker. Rinse it with fresh water and dry it with a soft towel to keep it looking new.

💡 Use Compatible Swim Caps

If you wear a swim cap, tuck the band underneath or go with a style that won’t interfere with your watch’s placement.

💡 Don’t Panic When the Screen Doesn’t Work Underwater

Touchscreens and water don’t mix well. Most swim-friendly trackers lock the screen during swims — it's totally normal.

💡 Review Your Data Post-Swim

Apps like Garmin Connect or Apple Health give you insights into your swim technique and help you improve over time. Don’t skip the analysis!

FAQs About Swimming with Fitness Trackers

🧐 Can I wear my fitness tracker in saltwater?

Yes, just make sure it has a solid water-resistance rating. Rinse it with fresh water afterward to avoid corrosion.

🧐 Will any wearable count my laps?

Not quite. Stick to ones with specific swim modes like Garmin Swim 2 or Apple Watch Series 9. Generic step counters may not track strokes accurately.

🧐 How accurate is heart rate tracking underwater?

It’s improving, but not perfect. Optical sensors don’t work as well in water. For top accuracy, use a compatible chest strap (if supported).

Final Thoughts

Swimming with a fitness tracker is like having a personal coach strapped to your wrist — one that doesn’t yell at you, but quietly logs every stroke, every lap, and every moment you crush your goals. Whether you're a casual swimmer or a competitive dolphin in disguise, there’s a waterproof fitness tracker out there waiting to make your swim sessions more meaningful.

So next time you hit the water, let your tracker do the math while you focus on the splash. Dive in, track it, and swim like nobody’s watching (but your watch totally is).