Best Waterproof Smart Watch for Swimming, Running & More
June 30, 2025
Whether you’re swimming laps, caught in a downpour, or diving deep, a waterproof smart watch is your perfect companion. We’ve tested and reviewed the top models on the market to help you find the best waterproof smart watch for your lifestyle — whether you’re a triathlete, a casual swimmer, or someone who just doesn’t want to worry about water damage.
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Why You Can Trust This Guide
Our team put dozens of water-resistant wearable’s through real-world testing, including pool swims, open water sessions, and rain exposure. We assessed swim tracking accuracy, water resistance ratings (like 5 ATM, 10 ATM, and IP68), build quality, and battery life. These recommendations are based on performance, comfort, and reliability — not just specs.
The Garmin Forerunner 745 strikes the perfect balance between performance and durability. Designed for triathletes, it’s not just swim-proof — it thrives in the water.
Don’t want to spend a fortune on a swim tracker? The Amazfit T-Rex Pro offers an excellent suite of waterproof features at a surprisingly low cost.
Key Features:
Military-grade durability
100+ sports modes, including swimming
Built-in GPS
Pros:
Affordable price
18-day battery life
Clear display in sunlight
Cons:
App could be better
Basic software compared to big brands
Best for Divers: Suunto Ocean
Water resistance rating: 100m | Dive modes | GPS navigation
The Suunto Ocean is built for serious water sports and diving. Designed with divers in mind, it goes well beyond your average smart watch capabilities.
Key Features:
Multiple diving profiles (air, nitrox, gauge)
Custom alarms and gas settings
Post-dive stats sync with the Suunto app
Pros:
Accurate depth sensors
Designed with diving in mind
Bright, color-rich AMOLED screen
Cons:
Hefty feel on the wrist
Niche features may not suit casual users
Best Style & Function: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
Water resistance rating: IP68 + 5 ATM | ECG | Fitness suite
Samsung’s rugged Galaxy Watch Ultra offers top-tier water resistance while keeping the look sleek enough for everyday wear.
Key Features:
Swim-proof, shower-proof, and splash-resistant
Powerful Samsung Health swim tracking
Rotating bezel for easy use underwater
Pros:
Android/iOS compatibility
Elegant design
ECG and heart rate tracking even in water
Cons:
Slightly bulky
Tizen OS learning curve
How to Choose the Right Waterproof Smart Watch
1. Know Your Water Resistance Ratings
5 ATM = Withstands pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters
Look for stroke recognition, lap counting, SWOLF score, and underwater heart rate monitoring.
3. Battery Life Matters
Watches with GPS and AMOLED screens drain faster. If you plan multi-day dives or swims, pick one with long endurance.
4. Compatibility & Apps
Ensure your smart watch syncs smoothly with your phone’s ecosystem (iOS/Android) and supports apps like Strava, Swim.com, or Oceanic+.
Final Thoughts: Which Waterproof Smart Watch Should You Get?
If you’re a serious athlete or diver, the Garmin Forerunner 745 or Suunto Ocean are smart investments. Want all the bells and whistles with seamless Apple integration? The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is unmatched. On a tighter budget? The Amazfit T-Rex Pro gives you more bang for your buck.
No matter your needs, there’s a waterproof smart watch to match your lifestyle — just make sure it’s got the right water-resistant rating, swim tracking capabilities, and features that fit your daily routine.
FAQs
Is there a difference between waterproof and water-resistant smart watches?
Yes. “Water-resistant” means it can handle splashes or rain. “Waterproof” implies it can be submerged — check ATM ratings for clarity.
Can I wear a waterproof smart watch in the shower or while diving?
Most models can handle showers and swimming. Only some are rated for diving (look for dive computer capabilities or 10 ATM+ ratings).
Darin is a wonderful person. He is very nice and always willing to help out! He loves his job because it lets him share interesting things with people who want to know about new developments in the world of technology.
