In 2025, a waterproof smartwatch is an essential companion for swimmers, outdoor adventurers, or anyone who wants a durable wearable that can handle water exposure without worry. These devices combine advanced fitness tracking, smartphone integration, and robust water resistance, making them ideal for pool sessions, open-water swims, or even unexpected rain. This waterproof smartwatch review dives into the best options available, offering insights on smartwatch setup, smartwatch maintenance, and key features to consider. Whether you’re a casual swimmer or a serious athlete, our guide will help you find the perfect smartwatch for your aquatic adventures.
Why Choose a Waterproof Smartwatch in 2025?
A waterproof smartwatch goes beyond basic water resistance, offering ratings like 5ATM or 10ATM to withstand swimming, snorkeling, or even diving. These wearables track swim-specific metrics like stroke type, lap counts, and SWOLF scores, while also providing GPS, heart rate monitoring, and smart features. Unlike standard smartwatches, they’re built to endure prolonged water exposure, making them perfect for fitness enthusiasts or those who simply want a reliable device in wet conditions. This waterproof smartwatch review evaluates top models based on water resistance, performance, and usability, ensuring you make an informed choice.
Understanding Water Resistance Ratings
Before exploring our top picks, it’s crucial to understand water resistance ratings in this waterproof smartwatch review:
- 3ATM (30m): Suitable for splashes and rain but not swimming.
- 5ATM (50m): Safe for pool swimming and shallow-water activities like snorkeling. Most smartwatches in this review meet this standard.
- 10ATM (100m): Supports deeper water activities, including recreational diving.
- IP68: Indicates dust and splash resistance but doesn’t guarantee swimming suitability unless paired with an ATM rating.
Note: No smartwatch is fully “waterproof”; they’re water-resistant to specific depths. Always rinse with fresh water after saltwater or chlorinated pool use to prevent corrosion.
Top 5 Waterproof Smartwatches in 2025
This waterproof smartwatch review highlights five top-rated models, each excelling in water resistance, swim tracking, and overall performance, based on extensive testing and user feedback.
1. Apple Watch Ultra 2: Best Overall Waterproof Smartwatch
Price: Starting at $799
Water Resistance: 10ATM (100m), EN13319 diving standard
Why Choose It: The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the pinnacle of waterproof smartwatches, ideal for iPhone users. Its titanium case, 10ATM rating, and dive computer functionality make it suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving up to 40m. The dual-frequency GPS ensures accurate open-water tracking, while swim metrics like stroke detection, lap counting, and SWOLF scores are precise, enhanced by third-party apps like MySwimPro.
Key Features:
- 10ATM water resistance; dive-ready with Oceanic Plus app
- Dual-frequency GPS for open-water accuracy
- Retina OLED display with 3,000 nits for underwater visibility
- 36-hour battery life; 12 hours in GPS mode
- Swim metrics: stroke type, pace, SWOLF, kickboard detection
Pros: Exceptional swim tracking, bright display, and robust app ecosystem. The water lock mode prevents accidental inputs underwater.
Cons: iPhone-only compatibility and high price tag.
Best For: Serious swimmers and divers seeking a premium smartwatch with GPS.
Setup Tip: For smartwatch setup, pair via the Apple Watch app on your iPhone and enable swim tracking in the Workout app for optimal performance.
2. Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra: Best for Android Users
Price: Starting at $649
Water Resistance: 10ATM (100m), IP68
Why Choose It: The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is a rugged waterproof smartwatch for Android users, featuring a 47mm titanium case and 10ATM water resistance. Its dual-frequency GPS and swim tracking capabilities make it ideal for pool and open-water swimming, while Galaxy AI provides wellness insights like daily energy scores.
Key Features:
- 10ATM and IP68 ratings for swimming and high-pressure water sports
- Dual-frequency GPS with GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou
- Super AMOLED display for clear visibility
- 100-hour battery life; 48 hours with always-on display
- Swim metrics: distance, pace, stroke type, SWOLF
Pros: Long battery life and durable design. Works best with Samsung phones but supports other Android devices.
Cons: Large case size may not suit smaller wrists.
Best For: Android users needing a rugged portable smartwatch for water activities.
Maintenance Tip: Rinse with fresh water after swimming and use a microfiber cloth for smartwatch cleaning to maintain sensor accuracy.
3. Garmin Swim 2: Best for Dedicated Swimmers
Price: Starting at $249
Water Resistance: 5ATM (50m)
Why Choose It: The Garmin Swim 2 is a specialized waterproof smartwatch designed for swimmers, offering 5ATM water resistance and detailed swim metrics like stroke rate, SWOLF, and pace alerts. Its lightweight design and 7-day battery life make it a practical choice for pool and open-water sessions.
Key Features:
- 5ATM water resistance for pool and open-water swimming
- Built-in GPS for open-water tracking
- 7-day battery life in smartwatch mode; 72 hours in pool swim mode
- Swim metrics: stroke type, distance, pace, SWOLF
- Garmin Connect app for data syncing and analysis
Pros: Affordable, swim-focused features, and cross-platform compatibility.
Cons: Lacks advanced smart features like app support or cellular connectivity.
Best For: Swimmers seeking a dedicated swim tracker with reliable GPS.
Troubleshooting Tip: For smartwatch troubleshooting, ensure GPS accuracy by calibrating in an open area and updating firmware via Garmin Connect.
4. Huawei Watch GT 5: Best Budget Waterproof Smartwatch
Price: Starting at $229
Water Resistance: 5ATM (50m)
Why Choose It: The Huawei Watch GT 5 is a stylish, budget-friendly waterproof smartwatch with 5ATM water resistance and solid swim tracking. It supports pool and open-water modes, syncing data to Strava via the Huawei Health app. Its AMOLED display and 7-day battery life add value.
Key Features:
- 5ATM water resistance for swimming
- Built-in GPS for open-water tracking
- 7-day battery life
- Swim metrics: stroke type, laps, SWOLF
- Cross-platform compatibility with iOS and Android
Pros: Affordable, stylish, and great battery life.
Cons: Limited app ecosystem compared to Apple or Samsung.
Best For: Budget-conscious swimmers needing reliable swim tracking.
Connection Tip: For how to connect smartwatch to phone, use the Huawei Health app to pair and sync swim data seamlessly.
5. COROS Pace 3: Best Value for Swim and Multisport
Price: Starting at $229
Water Resistance: 5ATM (50m)
Why Choose It: The COROS Pace 3 is a lightweight waterproof smartwatch with 5ATM water resistance and dual-frequency GPS, perfect for swimmers and triathletes. Its 25-day battery life and swim metrics make it a versatile choice for multisport enthusiasts.
< Lucia5ATM water resistance for pool and open-water swimming
- Dual-frequency GPS for accurate tracking
- 25-day battery life in smartwatch mode
- Swim metrics: stroke type, pace, distance, SWOLF
- Touchscreen and breadcrumb navigation
Pros: Exceptional battery life and accurate GPS at a budget-friendly price.
Cons: Limited lifestyle features compared to full smartwatches.
Best For: Multisport athletes seeking a portable smartwatch for swimming and running.
How to Choose a Waterproof Smartwatch
This waterproof smartwatch review offers key considerations for selecting the right device:
- Water Resistance: Choose 5ATM for pool swimming or 10ATM for diving. Check for IP68 and ATM ratings for comprehensive protection.
- Swim Metrics: Look for stroke detection, SWOLF, and lap counting for detailed tracking. Apple and Garmin excel here.
- GPS: Essential for open-water swimming. Dual-frequency GPS (Apple Watch Ultra 2, Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra) offers superior accuracy.
- Battery Life: Prioritize longer battery life (COROS Pace 3, Huawei Watch GT 5) for extended swim sessions.
- Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with your smartphone (iOS for Apple, Android for Samsung, cross-platform for Garmin, Huawei, COROS).
Pro Tip: Visit smartwatchus.com for detailed comparisons and a comprehensive wearable guide.
How to Use a Waterproof Smartwatch
Maximize your device with these how to use a smartwatch tips:
- Setup: Pair with your phone using the companion app (e.g., Apple Watch app, Samsung Wearable, Huawei Health). Enable swim modes and GPS.
- Swim Tracking: Select pool or open-water swim modes in the workout app. Wear snugly for accurate stroke detection.
- Data Syncing: Sync with apps like Strava or MySwimPro for detailed analysis.
- Battery Management: Disable unnecessary features like always-on display to extend battery life during swims.
Troubleshooting Tip: If swim metrics are inaccurate, ensure proper fit and update firmware to resolve smartwatch troubleshooting issues.
Waterproof Smartwatch Maintenance and Cleaning
Proper care is crucial for your waterproof smartwatch. Follow these smartwatch maintenance tips:
- Cleaning: Rinse with fresh water after saltwater or chlorinated pool use. Use a microfiber cloth for smartwatch cleaning.
- Strap Care: Clean silicone straps with water; use specialized cleaners for leather straps.
- Protection: Avoid hot water, steam, or high-pressure jets, as they can damage seals.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place to preserve battery health.
Waterproof Smartwatch Safety Tips
Ensure safe use with these smartwatch safety practices:
- Skin Health: Loosen the strap or switch to hypoallergenic materials if irritation occurs.
- Data Privacy: Secure health and swim data with strong passwords and app permission reviews.
- Charging: Use the manufacturer’s charger and avoid charging in humid conditions.
Conclusion: The Best Waterproof Smartwatch for You
This waterproof smartwatch review highlights top performers for 2025, from the premium Apple Watch Ultra 2 with its dive-ready 10ATM rating to the budget-friendly COROS Pace 3 and Huawei Watch GT 5 for reliable swim tracking. Whether you’re a casual swimmer, triathlete, or diver, these devices offer robust water resistance, precise GPS, and detailed swim metrics. By following our smartwatch tips for setup, maintenance, and safety, you’ll ensure your wearable thrives in any aquatic environment. For more insights, explore maintenance tips at smartwatchus.com, your ultimate best smartwatch guide.
Choose a waterproof smartwatch from this review and dive into your activities with confidence in 2025.
