Wearable tech is more popular than ever. Many modern wearables support business applications, fitness tracking, alerts, messaging, and even web browsing. And some of the more advanced models include waterproofing features that help prevent sweat or rain from damaging your wearable fitness tracker.
Do you want a new waterproof activity tracker? Are you considering purchasing one for the first time and don’t know what to look for? No worries—read on to learn about six of the best waterproof fitness trackers, including their specifications, pros and cons, and special features.
Rating Fitness Trackers
The following waterproof and water-resistant fitness trackers are some of the best options available at different price-points. Each has its own pros and cons, but all are excellent options for sweat resistance and basic water exposure, like washing dishes or being out in the rain.
Some of these devices can even withstand ocean use, track laps, and more. They are all compatible with both Android and iOS systems and track basic fitness activity like walking and running. Now, let’s take a look at the lineup.
1. TomTom Spark 3
The TomTom Spark 3 is waterproof up to 40m (131ft) and has a large monochrome screen for easy viewing and access. This watch is a top pick because it tracks a multitude of activity including cycling and swimming. You can also play music directly from the TomTom Spark 3 without the need for additional smartphone apps or connectivity.
With GPS and route navigation features, this waterproof fitness tracker can take you to new places and then lead you home again. Other pros include:
- Approximate two-week battery life
- Heart rate monitor
- Lightweight build
The Spark 3 supports a variety of apps. The only complaint that people may have is that music can come across a little muddy through the speakers, so sound quality can be iffy.
2. Fitbit Versa
The Fitbit Versa is a lightweight, stylish fitness tracker that boasts water-resistant capabilities up to 50m (165ft). Take advantage of onboard guided workouts through Fitbit Coach and track any workout it hosts. This fitness tracker also supports smartphone-free music.
Unlike some trackers, the Fitbit Versa also provides on-point tracking of female health in the app and on the device, so you can customize it based on gender. Other pros include:
- Text, call, and app notifications
- Several customization options available
- Strap swapping capability
The four-day battery on the Versa is a bit of a downer (and lower than the competition), but considering the features and options available, it makes sense that you would need to charge it a bit more. Another notable con would be the thick bezel, which can bother some people.
3. Samsung Gear Sport
This swimmer-friendly watch is waterproof up to 50m (165ft), making it pool and ocean friendly. It also provides unique customization options, since you can use standard watchbands. You can also play offline Spotify playlists and use several third-party apps on the Samsung Gear Sport.
Other pros include:
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- Slim, lightweight design
- Rotating bezel
- Counts strokes and laps and allows you to check SWOLF scores
- Battery life of up to one week
While the Gear Sport does accept third-party apps, it also requires several phone apps to properly track activity. This means tracking can be hit or miss if you don’t have the right app installed. Still, with a little forethought, this fitness tracker really delivers for athletes, especially swimmers.
4. Garmin Vivosmart 4
The Garmin Vivosmart 4 is a compact watch that packs plenty of fitness tracking features. A built-in heart rate monitor, activity tracker and body battery metrics let you know when you have pushed the limit in your fitness routine. You can also take advantage of auto exercise tracking so you never forget to start timers or input data. The battery has a life of up to one week, so you won’t have to constantly recharge the device.
More pros include:
- Waterproof up to 50m (165ft)
- Small, monochrome screen
- Track optional factors like sleep and stress
On the downside, there aren’t many options for customization, as you can’t swap out the band, so you have to choose your color carefully. Additionally, there’s no GPS offered and the screen gets touchy when wet. Overall, though, the fitness tracking is solid and it does give you plenty of feedback on fitness metrics.
5. MOOV Now
If long battery life is the most important feature for you, the MOOV Now fitness tracker is the best option. The six-month battery life makes this fitness tracker unbeatable for battery power. This basic fitness tracker seems designed for swimmers, and it has a waterproof rating of 30m (98ft). Granted that is a bit lower than other options, but it is still more than enough for any pool.
You can track laps, strokes, time and more with this lightweight activity tracker. Other pros include:
- Track pace and distance along with other important activity metrics
- Heart rate monitor
- GPS available through smartphone app
This one has a couple cons that stand out. The main one is it has no screen. Additionally, all the information arrives through your smartphone, so you can’t check it while you’re exercising unless you have your phone with you. Still, if you don’t mind waiting for metrics until you are done exercising, this affordable, customizable fitness tracker is an excellent option.
6. Xiamoi Mi Band
The Xiamoi Mi Band has water resistance for up to 50m (165ft) and features a color touchscreen. The fitness tracker monitors heart rate and sleep in addition to traditional fitness activities. With a 14-day battery life and a host of app features, you can work out and stay connected without needing to continuously recharge.
Other pros include:
- Available software updates
- Consistent feedback on fitness metrics
- Smartphone notifications
While the Xiamoi Mi Band does have a 50m water-resistance rating, it isn’t made for swimmers. There are no features for tracking laps, times or other important swimming metrics.
The motivational feedback also tends to lean toward the negative impact of things you did, rather than the positive effects your fitness efforts are having. This can be disheartening, and studies show positive feedback, even if it is corrective, is a better motivation for weight loss and fitness in general. However, software updates can help you shut down feedback and only receive fitness metrics.
Choosing the Best Waterproof Fitness Tracker
The most important aspect of choosing a fitness tracker is determining what’s the best fitness watch for your type of activity. For instance, if you are a swimmer, carefully check the tracking capabilities of the werable you want. Not all waterproof activity trackers are swimmer friendly, so make sure a device has swim tracking capabilities before you make a purchase.
If you want to wear your watch in the pool but not track your swim stats, check the waterproof rating (depth tolerance) to prevent damaging waterproof watches. Runners, walkers, and bicyclists will want nonslip, durable activity trackers for high-activity and impact purposes. Gym enthusiasts looking for the best fitness trackers to handle sweat won’t need a high waterproof rating, as water-resistant watches with nonslip bands or customizable bands will suffice.
For more, check out all the fitness trackers available on Newegg.
