In the land of wearable technology, smartwatches have become vital for fitness enthusiasts. For swimmers, finding smart watches that track swimming activities can improve training and performance. This guide will help you identify the key features to look for and highlight some top choices in the market.
Key features to look for
Water resistance – When selecting a smartwatch for swimming, ensure it has a high water resistance rating. Look for watches that can withstand depths of at least 50 meters. This ensures the device can handle the pressure of being submerged and continues to function without damage.
Swim tracking metrics – A good swimming smartwatch should offer inclusive swim tracking metrics. These include lap count, stroke type identification; stroke count, distance covered, and SWOLF score (a measure of swimming efficiency). Advanced models may also track heart rate underwater.
Battery life – Battery life is vital, especially for long training sessions. Choose a smartwatch with a battery life that can last several hours in GPS and swim-tracking modes. Some models offer extended battery-saving modes to ensure the watch doesn’t run out of power mid-swim.
Comfort and fit – A smartwatch for swimming should be comfortable and secure on your wrist. Look for lightweight models with adjustable bands made of materials that won’t irritate your skin when wet. A snug fit is essential to ensure accurate tracking and to prevent the watch from slipping during vigorous swimming.
App compatibility – Check the compatibility of the smartwatch with popular fitness apps. Smooth integration with apps like Strava, MySwimPro, or the watch’s proprietary app allows you to analyze your swim data in detail, set goals, and track progress over time.
Top smartwatches for swimming
Garmin Swim 2 – Garmin Swim 2 is specifically designed for swimmers. It offers extensive swim tracking features, including open water and pool swim modes, heart rate monitoring, and advanced metrics. Its sleek design and comfortable fit make it a popular choice among swimmers.
Apple Watch Series 7 – The Apple Watch Series 7 is renowned for its versatility and advanced health tracking features. With water resistance up to 50 meters, it offers detailed swim tracking metrics and integrates smoothly with the Apple Fitness+ service. Its robust app ecosystem and user-friendly interface add to its appeal.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 – Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 combines style with functionality. It offers swim tracking features, including stroke type detection and lap counting. The watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters and provides a comfortable fit, making it suitable for both casual and competitive swimmers.
