Waterproof Smartwatch for Swimming and Fitness Tracking

Introduction

Swimming is one of the most complete workouts for body and mind, combining cardiovascular endurance with muscular strength and flexibility. But for years, swimmers were left without reliable data tracking. Runners and cyclists could measure their progress through GPS watches, while swimmers had to rely on guesswork.

That changed with the arrival of the waterproof smartwatch. Today, advanced wearables don’t just survive immersion; they analyze laps, strokes, efficiency, and even open-water routes. If you’re looking for a waterproof fitness smartwatch that can help you train smarter in the pool or the ocean, 2024 brings more options than ever.

In this guide, we’ll explore:

The truth behind waterproof ratings (IP vs. ATM)

Which features matter most in the pool vs. open water

The limits of optical heart-rate monitoring underwater

The best waterproof smartwatches in 2024 — including the AuraFit Trek 1

1. Waterproof Ratings Explained (IP × ATM)

Before you take the plunge, the first thing to check is your watch’s waterproof rating. This is the most critical factor, and misunderstanding it can lead to a very expensive paperweight. You’ll primarily encounter two standards: IP and ATM.

IP Rating (Ingress Protection)

An IP rating (e.g., IP68) is an international standard that defines protection against solids (like dust) and liquids (water).

The first digit (6) refers to solid particle protection. A 6 is the highest, meaning it’s completely dust-tight.

The second digit (8) refers to liquid protection. An 8 means the device can withstand continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer (usually beyond 1 meter for at least 30 minutes).

While a high IP rating is excellent for accidental splashes, rain, or shallow immersion, it’s not always the best indicator for swimming, especially high-impact water sports.

Examples:

IP67: Dust-tight, can handle short immersion (1m depth for 30 minutes).

IP68: Dust-tight, survives deeper and longer immersion (1.5m or more, test-dependent).

IP69K: Resistant to high-pressure, high-temperature water jets.

ATM Rating (Atmospheres of Pressure)

ATM (Atmosphere) Rating:
This is the more relevant rating for swimmers. ATM measures static pressure. 1 ATM is equivalent to the pressure at sea level. 5 ATM means the watch can theoretically withstand pressure equivalent to 50 meters underwater.

3 ATM (30 meters): Resists splashes, rain, and accidental immersion. Not suitable for showering, swimming, or diving.

5 ATM (50 meters): Suitable for showering, swimming in shallow water, and surface swimming. It can handle the pressure of moving your arm through the water during a swim stroke.

10 ATM (100 meters) and above: Suitable for recreational swimming, high-speed water sports, and snorkeling. This is the recommended starting point for serious swimmers.

Choose 5ATM or above for any serious swimming. Pool athletes will do fine with 5ATM, but open-water explorers should aim for 10ATM.

2. Pool vs. Open-Water Features

A waterproof smartwatch for swimming isn’t just about staying functional underwater — it should deliver meaningful insights into your performance. The best models separate themselves by offering different sets of tools for pool swimmers versus open-water athletes.

Pool-Specific Features

Lap Counting: Automatically tracks turns and distance.

SWOLF Score: Combines stroke count + lap time to measure efficiency (like “golf” for swimming). Lower SWOLF = higher efficiency.

Stroke Recognition: Detects freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, and butterfly.

Stroke Rate & Pace: Essential for training speed and rhythm.

Open-Water Features

GPS Tracking: Records distance and route in oceans, rivers, or lakes.

Route Mapping: Post-swim analysis for distance and accuracy.

Tidal and Current Safety Data (available on select models).

SWOLF and lap features, while outdoor athletes need GPS-equipped waterproof fitness smartwatches.

3. Optical Heart-Rate Monitoring Underwater – Limits & Tips

Most smartwatches today measure heart rate using optical HR sensors with green LEDs. On land, they’re accurate. Underwater? Not always.

Why Accuracy Drops Underwater

Light Refraction: Water bends LED light, disrupting detection.

Loose Fit: A strap that slips allows water between the sensor and skin.

Cold Water: Reduced blood flow near the skin lowers signal quality.

Tips to Improve Readings

Tighten the Strap: Keep the watch snug against the wrist.

Wear Higher on the Arm: Less water turbulence = better contact.

Pair with a Chest Strap: Many pro swimmers connect their watch to a chest HRM for precise data.

4. Top Waterproof Smartwatch Picks (2025 Edition)

This year brings a strong lineup of waterproof wearables — from value-focused rugged models to advanced open-water trackers. Here are the best.

1. AuraFit Trek 1 – The Dedicated Swimming Companion

Waterproof Rating: 5ATM certified (safe for pool and open-water swimming).

Durability: Military-grade tested, shockproof, corrosion-resistant.

Outdoor Edge: Standalone GPS, MIL-STD durability, corrosion resistance.

Why It Stands Out: The Trek 1 bridges affordability and performance. While positioned as a budget model, it delivers GPS accuracy and 5ATM durability often found in mid-tier or premium devices. For athletes who want a waterproof fitness smartwatch that can handle both pool drills and lake swims, it’s a standout choice.

Discover the Power of AuraFit Trek 1

2. Amazfit Active 2 – Best for Pool Training

Waterproof Rating: 5ATM.

Smart Functions: Up to 10 days battery life during typical use

Features: Precise heart rate and sleep data with BioTracker technology

Why It Stands Out: For pool-focused athletes, Amazfit’s training analysis is second to none.

3. JOYROOM JR-FV1 – Affordable Swim Companion

Waterproof Rating: 1ATM.

Features: 110 Sports Modes, including running , cycling, yoga and more.

Design: Lightweight and comfortable.

Why It Stands Out: A entry-level waterproof smartwatch that easily withstands splash and rain.

5. Primary AURAFTI：Waterproof smartwatch for swimming, waterproof fitness smartwatch

While other brands offer water resistance as a feature, AuraFit is built from the ground up for the aquatic athlete. We don’t just make a smartwatch that you can swim with; we engineer a waterproof smartwatch for swimming.

The AuraFit Trek 1 embodies this philosophy. Its 5 ATM waterproof rating is the foundation, but the real value is in the software. Our advanced algorithms are fine-tuned to provide the most accurate swim metrics possible, helping you understand your efficiency and power in the water like never before. It’s the perfect fusion of a rugged, waterproof build and intelligent, actionable data.

But the Trek 1 is also the ultimate waterproof fitness smartwatch. After your swim, it continues to track your runs with precision GPS, monitor your heart rate during gym sessions, analyze your sleep, and keep you connected with smart notifications—all with a battery life that won’t quit.

Conclusion

A waterproof smartwatch for swimming should do more than resist water — it should help you train smarter, track your performance, and explore with confidence. In 2025, swimmers can choose from a range of devices tailored to their goals: from precise SWOLF scoring in the pool to GPS route tracking in open water.

The AuraFit Trek 1 stands out as the best budget-friendly waterproof fitness smartwatch, combining 5ATM durability, GPS precision, and rugged design. It’s proof that you don’t have to pay premium prices to get mid-to-high-end performance.

From precision GPS to all-day endurance, the Trek 1 is more than just a smartwatch—it’s outdoor tech redefined.

Explore the full details in our blog: Discover Trek 1

Already convinced?
[Buy Trek 1 Now] and take your next adventure to the next level.