Welcome to this review article where we shall be looking into the best 5 fitness trackers for swimming. Swimming is an excellent full body workout. Having the right fitness tracker can significantly enhance your training by providing detailed insights into your performance. and progress.
Whether you’re a competitive swimmer, a triathlete, or someone who enjoys casual laps for keeping fit, selecting a tracker that offers accurate swim metrics, durability, and comfort is crucial. In this comprehensive review, we look into the best five fitness trackers for swimming, examining their features, pros and cons, and suitability for different types of swimmers.
The Best 5 Fitness Trackers For Swimming
1. Garmin Swim 2 – Best Overall Swim Tracker
Price: Approximately $195
Water Resistance: 5 ATM (50 meters)
Battery Life: Up to 7 days in smartwatch mode; 13 hours in GPS mode
Compatibility: iOS and Android
Key Features:
- Designed specifically for swimmers, offering advanced swim metrics
- Tracks distance, pace, stroke count, SWOLF (Swim Golf), and heart rate underwater
- Built in GPS for open water swimming
- Lightweight and comfortable design
Pros:
- Comprehensive swim tracking features
- Accurate heart rate monitoring underwater
- Suitable for both pool and open water swimming
Cons:
- Limited smartwatch features compared to other models
- No music storage or playback
Ideal For: Swimmers seeking a dedicated swim tracker with precise metrics and reliable performance.
2. Apple Watch Series 9 – Best Smartwatch for Swimmers
Price: Starting at $399
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Battery Life: Up to 18 hours; up to 36 hours in Low Power Mode
Compatibility: iOS
Key Features:
- Automatic swim detection with lap counting and stroke recognition
- High-resolution Retina display that’s easy to read underwater
- Comprehensive health tracking, including heart rate, ECG, and blood oxygen levels
- Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem
Pros:
- Advanced swim tracking features
- Access to a wide range of third party swim apps
- Robust health and fitness tracking capabilities
Cons:
- Shorter battery life compared to other fitness trackers
- Only compatible with iPhones
Ideal For: iPhone users looking for a versatile smartwatch that excels in swim tracking and overall health monitoring.
3. Fitbit Charge 6 – Best Budget Friendly Swim Tracker
Price: Approximately $159.95
Water Resistance: 5 ATM (50 meters)
Battery Life: Up to 7 days
Compatibility: iOS and Android
Key Features:
- Automatic swim tracking with lap counting
- Heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and stress management tools
- Built-in GPS for outdoor activities
- Integration with Google services like Maps and Wallet
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Comprehensive fitness and health tracking features
- Slim and lightweight design
Cons:
- Smaller display may be less readable underwater
- Some features require a Fitbit Premium subscription
Ideal For: Casual swimmers and fitness enthusiasts seeking an affordable tracker with essential swim tracking capabilities.
4. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 – Best for Android Users
Price: Starting at $299.99
Water Resistance: 5 ATM (50 meters)
Battery Life: Up to 40 hours
Compatibility: Android and limited iOS functionality
Key Features:
- Swim tracking with stroke recognition and lap counting
- Advanced health monitoring, including heart rate, ECG, and sleep tracking
- Integration with Samsung Health and third-party fitness apps
- Customizable watch faces and notifications
Pros:
- Comprehensive fitness and health tracking features
- Sleek design with a vibrant AMOLED display
- Seamless integration with Android devices
Cons:
- Limited functionality when paired with iOS devices
- Battery life may vary with usage
Ideal For: Android users seeking a stylish smartwatch with robust swim tracking and health monitoring features.
5. Amazfit T-Rex 3 – Best Rugged Swim Tracker
Price: Approximately $279
Water Resistance: 10 ATM (100 meters)
Battery Life: Up to 18 days with regular use
Compatibility: iOS and Android
Key Features:
- Tracks over 170 workout types, including swimming
- Dual-band GPS and offline map navigation
- Rugged design with military-grade durability
- Bright AMOLED display and tactile physical buttons
Pros:
- Exceptional battery life
- High water resistance suitable for various water sports
- Affordable price with premium features
Cons:
- Limited third-party app support
- Bulkier design may not appeal to all users
Ideal For: Outdoor enthusiasts and swimmers seeking a durable fitness tracker with extensive battery life and swim tracking capabilities.
🟢 Collective Pros of the Best 5 Fitness Trackers for Swimming
✅ 1. Swim Specific Tracking Features
All five trackers offer robust swim tracking features, including:
- Lap counting
- Stroke recognition
- SWOLF scores (a metric for swimming efficiency)
- Distance and pace measurement
- Heart rate tracking in water (Garmin Swim 2 and Apple Watch Series 9 excel here)
These features allow swimmers of all levels to monitor their progress and refine their technique.
✅ 2. Water Resistance
Each device is waterproof up to at least 50 meters (5 ATM) , sufficient for pool training, open water swims, and even shallow diving.
- Amazfit T-Rex 3 takes it further with 10 ATM resistance, great for more rugged water sports and durability under pressure.
✅ 3. Multisport & Health Tracking
These aren’t just swim trackers, they’re multi sport wearables with features like:
- GPS for cycling and running
- Sleep tracking
- Stress monitoring
- ECG and blood oxygen (Apple Watch, Samsung, and Fitbit)
- Long battery life (especially Amazfit T-Rex 3)
Ideal for well rounded athletes or health conscious users.
✅ 4. Smart Features
Most devices include:
- Smart notifications
- Music control/storage
- Third party app support
- Payment tools (Apple Pay, Google Wallet)
This makes them excellent lifestyle gadgets, not just fitness tools.
✅ 5. Device Ecosystem Compatibility
- Apple Watch Series 9 integrates flawlessly with the Apple ecosystem.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 and Fitbit Charge 6 cater well to Android users.
- Garmin Swim 2 and Amazfit are cross-compatible with both platforms.
🔴 Collective Cons of the Best 5 Fitness Trackers for Swimming
❌ 1. Battery Limitations on Some Models
- The Apple Watch Series 9 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 have shorter battery lives, especially with GPS and swim tracking enabled.
- Users may need to charge daily or every other day.
❌ 2. Price Variability
- Apple Watch Series 9 and Galaxy Watch 6 can be expensive, especially when adding accessories or cellular models.
- Budget conscious users may find more value in Fitbit Charge 6 or Amazfit T-Rex 3.
❌ 3. Learning Curve & Complexity
- Devices like Garmin Swim 2 and Apple Watch offer deep customization but can be overwhelming to new users.
- Users must invest some time to fully utilize all features effectively.
❌ 4. Platform Lock in
- Apple Watch requires an iPhone for setup and use.
- Samsung Watch’s full feature set is only available on Android.
- Fitbit’s more advanced features may require Fitbit Premium (subscription).
💡 Key Benefits of Using Fitness Trackers for Swimming
💧 1. Track and Improve Technique
With real-time swim data, you can analyse your stroke type, lap splits and swimming efficiency (SWOLF), helping you refine your form and endurance.
📈 2. Motivation and Goal Tracking
Set goals (laps, distance, time) and use the tracker’s feedback to stay motivated, beat your records, and keep consistent.
❤️ 3. Monitor Health Beyond the Pool
Post swim metrics like heart rate variability, sleep quality, and stress levels offer a broader view of your health, making recovery smarter.
🕹️ 4. Hands Free Convenience
Smart notifications, music control, and reminders help you stay connected without distractions, even during a swim.
🌍 5. Ideal for Cross Training
GPS and activity modes make these trackers great for triathletes, runners, cyclists, and gym goers, perfect for well rounded fitness.
Questions & Answers
Q1: What features should I look for in a swimming fitness tracker?
A1: When choosing a fitness tracker for swimming, look for these key features:
- Water resistance (at least 5 ATM or 50 meters)
- Swim tracking modes (lap counting, stroke detection, SWOLF score)
- Heart rate monitoring in water
- Battery life (especially for open water swimmers)
- Comfortable fit for wrist movement
- Smart syncing with your smartphone or fitness app
Q2: Can fitness trackers measure heart rate accurately in water?
A2: Some high end trackers like the Apple Watch Series 9 and Garmin Swim 2 offer reasonably accurate optical heart rate monitoring in water, but results may vary. For elite training, consider pairing a compatible chest strap like the Garmin HRM Swim for better accuracy.
Q3: Are these trackers suitable for open water swimming?
A3: Yes! Models like the Garmin Swim 2 and Amazfit T-Rex 3 offer built in GPS, making them ideal for open water swimming. They track real time distance, speed, and stroke in lakes or oceans, without needing a phone nearby.
Q4: Do I need a subscription to access full features?
A4: Not all trackers require a subscription. However:
- Fitbit Charge 6 offers additional metrics and wellness reports with Fitbit Premium
- Apple Watch and Garmin provide most features without extra cost
- Always check what’s included versus what’s behind a paywall
Q5: Which tracker has the best battery life for swimming?
A5: The Amazfit T-Rex 3 leads in battery performance with up to 20 days of typical use and over 40 hours in GPS mode. Ideal for swimmers who want to track long sessions or swim multiple times without daily charging.
🔄 Conclusion: Choosing the Right Tracker
Whether you prioritize battery life, smart features, ruggedness, or detailed swim metrics, there’s a tracker to meet your needs:
- 🏊♂️ Garmin Swim 2: Focused, swim dedicated device.
- 🍏 Apple Watch Series 9: All around lifestyle and health tool for iPhone users.
- 💰 Fitbit Charge 6: Budget friendly, simple, and effective.
- 🤖 Samsung Galaxy Watch 6: Versatile, especially for Android users.
- 🧭 Amazfit T-Rex 3: Rugged with incredible battery and tracking depth.
Let your budget, tech ecosystem, and training goals guide you.
Summary
Selecting the right fitness tracker for swimming depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. The Garmin Swim 2 stands out as the best overall swim tracker, offering dedicated swim features and accurate metrics. For iPhone users, the Apple Watch Series 9 provides a seamless experience with comprehensive health tracking. The Fitbit Charge 6 offers an affordable option without compromising essential features. Android users will appreciate the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6’s integration and functionality, while the Amazfit T-Rex 3 caters to those needing a rugged, long lasting device.
Investing in a fitness tracker that aligns with your swimming goals can enhance your training, provide valuable insights, and contribute to overall health and performance improvements.
Many thanks for reading through this article on The Best 5 Fitness Trackers For Swimming. I really do hope that you have found it informative and helpful in your search for a suitable swimming fitness tracker. For further reading, you might enjoy one our related articles. It’s titled The Best 8 Fitness Tracker Smart Watches.
Please let us know in the comments which fitness tracker you are currently using or plan to buy in the future!
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All the best!
Eamon