When looking for a waterproof fitness tracker, the choice can often seem overwhelming. The choice of products is almost endless, and they often differ significantly in price.
Finding the right waterproof fitness tracker:
We have compared the most popular trackers in different price ranges and reviewed the best models for you.
It gets even better:
BeyondSurfing’s buying guide also tells you everything you need to know about waterproof fitness trackers. We explain which functions the tracker absolutely needs and what else to look out for when buying.
The best waterproof fitness tracker 2024?
Content
- 1 The top 5 fitness trackers in 2024
- 2 Bestsellers: The most popular waterproof fitness trackers
- 3 Buy a waterproof fitness tracker: How to make the right decision
- 4 FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about waterproof fitness trackers
- 5 Conclusion: The most popular waterproof fitness trackers reviewed
- 6 Specialist literature, sources & further links
In a hurry? Our favorite waterproof fitness tracker:
- Over 40 training plans for different sports
- Waterproof up to 5 ATM
- Over 20 sports apps
- Continuous heart rate measurement
- Various tracking modes
- GPS
- Music
- Smartphone notifications
- Garmin Pay payment system
- Customizable OLED screen
- Daily goals and reminder function
- 3rd place with Consumer Reports
Fitness Tracker Checklist
- Compatibility: Every fitness tracker is now compatible with smartphones via Bluetooth. Usually via an app designed by the manufacturer.
- Running time: A long running time is desirable. Some watches need to be recharged every five to six days, others last up to a year. This is often stated by the manufacturer.
- Features: Fitness trackers have many different features. The most important ones are: Pedometer, sleep analysis, heart rate measurement, calorie counter, swim mode and surf tracking.
Also interesting: The most popular dive computers 2024.
The top 5 fitness trackers in 2024
1. the GARMIN vívoactive 4
Advantages
- Over 40 training plans for different sports
- Waterproof up to 5 ATM
- Over 20 sports apps
- Continuous heart rate measurement
- Various tracking modes
- GPS
- Music
- Smartphone notifications
- Garmin Pay payment system
- Customizable OLED screen
- Daily goals and reminder function
- 3rd place with Consumer Reports
Disadvantages
- High price
Summary
There is hardly anything that this waterproof fitness tracker from Garmin cannot do. This device provides access to over 40 different training plans at various levels of difficulty. Training can also be ideally tracked with the 20 different sports apps (for running, swimming, cycling, etc.).
Of course, this waterproof fitness tracker can also be used to measure your heart rate. But that’s not all. The device tracks oxygen saturation, body battery energy level, stress level, menstrual cycle, water consumption, breathing rate, sleep behavior and gives the option to relax in conscious breathing mode.
The vívoactive 4 also functions as a GPS navigation system and music player. The tracker can be connected to Spotify so that music can be played via Bluetooth during training. The battery lasts up to 8 days. According to the manufacturer, the 5 ATM case can withstand water pressure down to a depth of 50 meters.
The device is very similar to a smartwatch; in addition to daily goals and reminders, it can be paired with a compatible smartphone and displays all notifications on the screen.
You can also leave your wallet at home. With the Garmin Pay payment system, it is possible to make contactless payments. The screen of the fitness tracker can be customized to your personal preferences with apps, widgets and display designs.
Conclusion
All-rounder from the upper price segment, with many functions, sports modes, GPS, contactless payment and smartphone linking.
Product details
Dimensions: 45 mm x 45 mm x 13 mm | Weight: 50 g | Water resistance: 5 ATM | IP protection class: N/A | Screen: OLED | GPS: yes
Customer ratings
Customers are impressed by the many sports modes, the ease of use and the beautiful design of the waterproof fitness tracker. The majority of customers are very satisfied with this product, but note that the battery life is much shorter than stated.
Around 10% are neutral about the product, while 6% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
These customers are very dissatisfied with the battery life and state that the device only lasts just under a day without a charge when all features are used.
FAQ
2. HONOR Volume 5
Advantages
- Continuous heart rate measurement
- Good price-performance ratio
- SpO2 blood oxygen monitor
- Battery life of 14 days
- Swim mode
- 10 sport modes
- Objective
- Performance reminder
- Pedometer
- IP 68
- Recording of exercise data
- Sleep analysis
- Smartphone notifications
- AMOLED display
- Very light
Disadvantages
- No music
- Small screen
- Not customizable
- No GPS
Summary
This waterproof fitness tracker is small, but still has a variety of functions and a great price-performance ratio. It has all the important features such as continuous heart rate measurement, pedometer, calorie consumption and over 14 sports modes.
What sports is this tracker suitable for?
For running outdoors and indoors, for walking outdoors and indoors, for cycling on an exercise machine or outdoors, for swimming, for rowing, for the stepper and for free training. Whether in the shower or in the swimming pool, the housing is watertight and has IP protection class 68.
With this waterproof fitness tracker, you can set yourself individual goals and be reminded if the goal has not yet been reached. The exercise data is also recorded and can be viewed later in the app. The same applies to sleep behavior.
The AMOLED display shows the time and the measured values as well as smartphone notifications.
The waterproof fitness tracker does not have a music function that can be used to access Spotify. The screen is very small, which is not necessarily a disadvantage if you are looking for a small device. However, information cannot be presented in a visually appealing way. A GPS function is also not available.
Conclusion
Waterproof fitness tracker with all the important functions and a good price-performance ratio.
Product details
Dimensions: 107 mm x 17 mm x 1 mm | Weight: 22.7 g | Water resistance: ATM (but up to 50 m depth according to the manufacturer) | IP protection class: 68 | Screen: AMOLED | GPS: no
Customer ratings
Customers are very satisfied with this product, all functions work well and the fitness tracker is considered to be of very high quality for the low price.
Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 8% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Some customers do not like the watch strap or state that the device is not compatible with their smartphone.
FAQ
3. Polar Vantage M
Advantages
- Continuous pulse measurement on the wrist
- Beautiful design
- Training Load Pro
- Sleep analysis
- Supports more than 130 sports
- 20 sports profiles simultaneously
- Swim mode
- Activity tracking and reminders
- Creating training plans
- Biometric calorie consumption
- Training feedback
- Breathing exercise
- GPS
- Fitness test
- Large OLED display
- Various accessories
Disadvantages
- High price
Summary
This waterproof fitness tracker impresses with its slim design and wide range of training and analysis options. The device supports more than 130 sports and 20 profiles can be created for 20 sports. You will receive motivating feedback after each training session.
Always there, even in the water:
Of course, this model also has a swim mode in which swimming style, distance, speed, strokes and rest times are recorded. Distance and strokes are also recorded during open water swimming.
Great analysis tool:
All training data can be accessed in one place on the Polar Flow online platform and in the app. The tool is graphically very well prepared and shows the progress of your performance. Customized training plans can also be created in the app.
Of course, every activity outside of workouts is also tracked in the form of steps, distance and calories burned. The waterproof fitness tracker also fulfills its purpose at night and analyzes sleep phases. The guided breathing exercise Serene provides relaxation.
The watch’s OLED display is very appealing and shows all the important information at a glance. Of course, the tracker can also be worn as a digital wristwatch. The device has GPS.
In addition to wrist-based heart rate measurement, a chest strap from Polar can also be used. Additional accessories such as wristbands and holders are also available. This device is very sophisticated and this is also reflected in the high price.
Conclusion
Suitable for many sports, attractive design, all important features and more, great analysis tool.
Product details
Dimensions: 46 mm x 12.5 mm x 46 mm | Weight: 45 g | Water resistance: N/A; stated on the back of the device | IP protection class: N/A, stated on the back of the device | Screen: OLED | GPS: yes
Customer ratings
Customers praise the quality of the watch and are also very satisfied with the battery life. It is also stated that the GPS is very accurate.
Around 8% are neutral about the product, while 4% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Customers state that the heart rate is only measured accurately at a low heart rate and that many functions are only visible on the PC.
FAQ
4. fitpolo fitness tracker
Advantages
- Activity tracking
- Good price-performance ratio
- Beautiful design
- Smartphone notifications
- Pulse measurement
- 14 sport modes
- Sleep analysis
- 4 displays
- IP 68
- Standby time of 7 to 10 days
- Menstrual cycle tracking
- App support
Disadvantages
- No GPS
- Not suitable for snorkeling
Summary
This waterproof fitness tracker is also a smartwatch and offers great value for money. But the beautiful design is not everything.
The device measures your heart rate continuously, as well as all activity in the form of steps and distance traveled. However, the tracker can only use the GPS function of the smartphone; there is no integrated GPS.
There are 14 sports modes to choose from, 8 of which are already pre-installed, the others can be added in the app. This also includes a swimming and running mode. The housing has IP protection class 68 and is therefore protected against dust, contact and permanent immersion.
Your sleep is also analyzed at night. The aim is to show how good night-time recovery is. Women can track their menstrual cycle with this device.
The battery lasts between 7 and 10 days in standby mode. As the device is a smartwatch, apps such as Spotify can also be installed on it.
Conclusion
Smartwatch/waterproof fitness tracker with good price-performance ratio and many functions.
Product details
Dimensions: N/A | Weight: N/A | Waterproof: N/A | IP protection class: 68 | Screen: OLED | GPS: no, only via smartphone
Customer ratings
Customers state that this smartwatch can also compete with other higher-priced products. All fitness functions run smoothly.
Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 6% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Some customers were not satisfied with this smartwatch as a fitness watch.
FAQ
5. fitbit Charge 4
Advantages
- Continuous heart rate measurement
- Activity tracking
- Integrated GPS
- Sleep monitoring
- 20+ sport modes
- Water-repellent up to a depth of 50 m
- Smartphone notifications
- Battery life up to 7 days
- Fitbit Pay payment system
- Objective
- Spotify control
- Customizable design
- Cycle tracking
- Breathing exercises
Disadvantages
- No color display (grayscale only)
- Bad app
Summary
With the waterproof Fitbit charge 4 fitness tracker, you can always keep an eye on your heart rate. The device measures this continuously and records all activities throughout the day. Daily targets can also be set and the tracker has a reminder function to motivate you to train.
When you go to sleep in the evening, the device analyzes your sleep and provides information on how well you have recovered.
The device has a pedometer and can record the distance traveled via GPS. Steps, floors, active zone minutes and calorie consumption are also tracked.
You can choose from over 20 sports modes. This also includes a running and swimming mode. Personal goals can also be set for training.
Smart fitness tracker:
This waterproof fitness tracker can also be used to control Spotify, receive notifications, make contactless payments with the Fitbit payment system, customize the design of the watch and perform breathing exercises. Women have the option of tracking their menstrual cycle.
The device does not have a color display, only grayscale. Many users state that the Fitbit app is inadequate. However, the device can also be linked to other fitness apps.
Conclusion
Many functions, more suitable for training than for long-term wear.
Product details
Dimensions: 24.7 mm x 28.8 mm x 12.5 mm | Weight: 30 g | Water resistance: up to 50 m (according to the manufacturer) | IP protection class: N/A | Screen: OLED | GPS: yes
Customer ratings
Customers state that the device is easy to set up and fulfills its purpose.
Around 9% are neutral about the product, while 7% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Many customers state that the quality does not justify the price and that there were problems with the connection to their smartphone.
FAQ
More articles you might find interesting:
Bestsellers: The most popular waterproof fitness trackers
(**Last update 2024-09-16)
Buy a waterproof fitness tracker:
How to make the right decision
With a waterproof fitness tracker, you can monitor your progress during training and set yourself individual goals. Most fitness trackers record heart rate, steps taken and calories burned. But many devices can do even more.
In this buying guide from BeyondSurfing, you can find out which functions a waterproof fitness tracker needs and what you need to look out for when buying one.
What you need to consider when buying a waterproof fitness tracker
When looking for the best waterproof fitness tracker, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:
- Watertightness
- Pulse measurement
- Features
- Accuracy
- Compatibility
- Battery
- Design
- Price
- Further features
Waterproofness of the fitness tracker
Not all waterproof fitness trackers are equally resistant to water. The degree of protection of the housing against impacts, water and foreign bodies such as dust is indicated by the IP protection class (IP stands for International Protection or Ingress Protection).
The IP protection class is defined by two digits. The first stands for protection against foreign bodies and contact, the second for protection against water.
How strong is the housing really?
The following table explains the relationship between the IP protection class and the actual protection of the enclosure against foreign bodies and water.
| 1. digit | Protection against foreign bodies and contact | 2. digit | Protection against water |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | No protection | 0 | No protection |
| 1 | Protected against solid foreign objects > 50 mm and against contact with the back of the hand | 1 | Protected against dripping water |
| 2 | Protected against solid foreign objects > 12 mm and against contact with fingers | 2 | protected against dripping water below 15 °C |
| 3 | Protected against solid foreign objects > 2.5 mm and against contact with tools | 3 | Protected against water spray |
| 4 | protected against solid foreign objects > 1 mm and against contact with a wire | 4 | Protected against splash water |
| 5 | Protected against dust and contact | 5 | Protected against water jets |
| 6 | sealed against dust, protected against contact | 6 | Protected against heavy water jets |
| 7 | Protected against temporary submersion | ||
| 8 | Protected against permanent submersion | ||
| 9 | Protected against water with high-pressure/steam jets | ||
| We recommend:: When buying a waterproof fitness tracker, always make sure that the housing has at least IP protection class 67. | |||
How much water pressure can the housing withstand?
If the waterproof fitness tracker is also used in water, for example when swimming or snorkeling, it is also important to know the water depth or water pressure to which the housing remains waterproof.
The resistance to water pressure is indicated in ATM:
ATM stands for atmospheres. 1 ATM means that the case can withstand a water pressure of 5 bar. This corresponds to a water column of 50 m, but not 50 m diving depth!
How much ATM does my waterproof fitness tracker need?
Depending on what the waterproof fitness tracker is used for, more or less ATM is required.
ATM data and their typical areas of application:
- 3 ATM: The case can easily withstand water in the shower or heavy rain. However, this value is too low for diving.
- 5 ATM: The case remains waterproof even when swimming and snorkeling.
- 10 ATM: Ideal for swimming and deeper dives. However, divers should never rely on a waterproof fitness tracker, they absolutely need a dive computer. Otherwise there is a danger to life.
Heart rate measurement with waterproof fitness trackers
A core feature of every waterproof fitness tracker is heart rate measurement. The pulse rate is measured with a sensor. The current heart rate is shown on the display and the measured values can be called up later.
What are the benefits of heart rate measurement?
The level of the pulse shows how hard the body is exerting itself during training. In this way, the subjective experience is made objectively measurable. It shows how the body behaves before, after and during the workout.
When is the pulse measured?
This varies from device to device. Some waterproof fitness trackers measure the heart rate continuously, while others have to be activated manually before training.
Pulse and health
Your pulse can also be an indicator of your state of health. If the fitness tracker measures the pulse continuously, irregularities or deviations from the norm can be detected.
A high pulse without physical exertion: Is an indicator of stress or other health problems.
A low pulse over a longer period of time: May be an indication of possible blood pressure problems or diabetes.
3 types of heart rate measurement with a waterproof fitness tracker
There are three ways in which the pulse can be measured:
- With a chest strap
- On the wrist
- With a finger sensor
1 Heart rate measurement with a chest strap
- ECG accurate measurement
- Good if heart rate measurement is only required during training
- Unsuitable for continuous heart rate measurement
- Less common today
The Polar brand in particular is known for its fitness trackers with chest straps. The pulse is measured close to the heart and the body’s electronic signals are converted into numbers, providing an ECG-accurate value.
However, such chest straps are now less common. The chest strap is not an option, especially if the heart rate is to be measured continuously, as wearing it in everyday life is perceived as awkward and uncomfortable. If you only want to measure your heart rate during training, a chest strap is a good option.
2 Wrist pulse measurement
- No extra accessories necessary
- Continuous measurement of the pulse without restrictions
- Comfortable
- Less accurate than other methods
- Device must be worn correctly
A light sensor in the waterproof fitness tracker measures the heart rate. This is convenient as no additional accessories are required. This means that the pulse can also be measured continuously in everyday life.
However, the measurement is less accurate than with a chest strap or finger sensor, which provide an ECG-accurate result. Cheap models in particular sometimes measure values that deviate greatly from reality.
Important:
To ensure that the measurement is as accurate as possible, the device must fit snugly, but should not pinch the skin or restrict the blood supply to the hand. If the waterproof fitness tracker slips, the heart rate is measured inaccurately or not at all.
3Pulse measurement with a finger sensor
- Ideal for training
- ECG accurate result
- Unsuitable for continuous heart rate measurement
- Sensor must be worn on the finger
If you only want to measure your heart rate during training, use a waterproof fitness tracker with a finger sensor, as the heart rate is measured with ECG accuracy. However, such devices are unsuitable for permanent measurement, as the finger sensor has limitations in everyday life.
Features of waterproof fitness trackers
In addition to heart rate measurement, many waterproof fitness trackers also have other features. Including e.g:
- Pedometer
- Calorie counter
- Swim mode
- Daily goals
- Sleep analysis
- Surf Tracking
Pedometer
- Measures the number of daily steps or during training
- Daily destinations possible
A pedometer is essential for joggers, but also for hiking and trekking. The device on the wrist is often sufficient for this, some fitness trackers have an extension that can be attached to the shoe.
The pedometer can be used to visualize progress, which increases motivation. A daily target for the number of steps can often be set, and the waterproof fitness tracker reminds the wearer of this target if it has not yet been reached.
Smart waterproof fitness tracker:
Some devices can be fed with biometric data (weight, height, age, gender) and thus calculate the optimum daily step count.
Calorie counter
- The calorie consumption is calculated
- Helpful for losing weight
- Increases motivation
Based on biometric data and training intensity, calorie consumption is measured during training or throughout the day. This is particularly helpful when losing weight if a calorie deficit is to be achieved. This feature also increases motivation, as it not only gives you the feeling of having done something, but also expresses your success in figures.
Swim mode
- For the analysis of swimming training
- Ideal for triathletes
If you want to analyze your training while swimming, you need a waterproof fitness tracker with swim mode. The arm strokes, laps swum, swimming distance, pace and SWOLF are measured. The swim mode is a must for triathletes in particular, as their training takes place both in the water and on land.
Daily goals
- Increase motivation
- Are set individually
- Calorie consumption or step count as a target
- Provides a reward stimulus
Many people wear their waterproof fitness tracker permanently to measure their progress and achieve personal goals at the same time. Some devices have the option of setting a daily target, such as consuming 300 calories or walking 10,000 steps.
Once a target has been set, the fitness tracker reminds you until the target has been reached. This attacks your inner bastard and helps to motivate you to exercise. When the daily goal has been achieved, the fitness tracker gives a reward in the form of icons or color changes on the display and thus acts on the reward center in the brain.
Sleep analysis
- Promises better sleep and recovery
- Should determine sleep phases
- Less accurate than manufacturers promise
Not only training is important, but rest periods and a good night’s sleep also play an important role in regeneration. In addition, you can perform better when you are refreshed.
A motion sensor is used to measure the sleep phase of the wearer of the waterproof fitness tracker. This should not only provide information about your sleeping habits and the quality of your sleep, the manufacturers also promise that the alarm clock will only ring when you are no longer in the REM sleep phase.
Does it really work?
Not always as good as intended. For fitness trackers, no movement equals asleep and movement equals awake. However, if you are awake and not moving or hardly moving at all, the fitness tracker will not recognize this. This is why many fitness trackers are inaccurate. (Source: Zeit.de)
Surf Tracking
- For surfers
- Displays tides, swell, distance paddled and sometimes also the speed on the wave
Surf watches are now available for surfers. These often don’t have a pedometer or other classic fitness tracker features, but they do show the tide, swell, distance paddled, water temperature and sometimes even the speed on the wave.
Surf watch manufacturers include Rip Curl, Nixon and Casio.
Accuracy of the waterproof fitness tracker
The accuracy of waterproof fitness trackers has steadily improved. However, devices that are worn on the wrist are less accurate than devices with a finger sensor or chest strap, especially when it comes to heart rate measurement.
Many fitness trackers have GPS, which enables very accurate tracking of distance and speed. Pedometers have also become much better reviewed.
Compatibility: Apps and Bluetooth
Nowadays, practically all fitness trackers can be connected to a smartphone app via Bluetooth, which usually comes from the manufacturer itself. This allows the data to be stored, visualized and analyzed.
However, the quality of the apps varies greatly, with different tools available depending on the provider, for example for creating workout plans or setting individual goals. Bluetooth is actually standard, but if the fitness tracker does not have a Bluetooth function, it must at least be able to be connected to the computer with a USB cable.
Battery of waterproof fitness trackers: runtime
Long battery life is desirable for a waterproof fitness tracker, as many people wear it on their wrist around the clock. How long the battery lasts is usually specified by the manufacturer.
Some watches need to be charged every five to six days, while others have a battery life of up to a year. The devices are often “intelligent” and switch off the screen when not in use to save power.
Design and display of waterproof fitness trackers
There are waterproof fitness trackers from small to large, thick or thin and with countless display layouts. Many also function as a smartwatch or digital wristwatch.
The display can be color or monochrome. The more visual the display, the better information can be visualized and read. Many high-end devices are equipped with an OLED display, just like smartphones.
Most fitness trackers are unisex, but there are also models for women. They do not differ in their function, but the bracelet is usually shorter.
Price of waterproof fitness trackers
Waterproof fitness trackers are available for as little as 30 $, but those who want a lot of features and a color display often have to dig deeper into their pockets.
Affordable waterproof fitness tracker:
Priced between 30 $ and 100 $, they usually have all the basic features such as a pedometer, heart rate monitor, watch function, Bluetooth function and daily targets. Anyone who doesn’t need more will certainly be satisfied with such a device. However, the screen is less visually appealing and such fitness trackers usually do not have a touchscreen.
More expensive waterproof fitness trackers:
The price here is around 100-500 $. The higher the price, the better the screen and the more features you can expect. These include various sports modes, touchscreen, watch function, OLED display, daily targets, heart rate measurement, pedometer, GPS, long battery life, high IP factor and ATM or water resistance.
Do I need an expensive waterproof fitness tracker?
It all depends on what the device is to be used for. Is the waterproof fitness tracker used as a watch? Does it have to have GPS? Is it also intended for snorkeling or swimming? And last but not least, where is the budget?
If many of the features remain unused and only a fitness tracker is needed for sports, a cheaper device is certainly sufficient.
Other features of waterproof fitness trackers
In addition to the features mentioned above, some waterproof fitness trackers have even more features. These are:
- GPS
- Clock function
- Gesture function
- Activity reminder
- Women’s health
GPS
With a GPS, routes can be visualized and distances covered can be measured precisely. This feature is particularly useful for runners, hikers or trekkers.
Clock function
Many waterproof fitness trackers also function as a digital wristwatch and have a watch mode. Only the date and time are displayed here. A stopwatch, timer function, calendar and alarm clock are also often integrated.
Gesture control
Many fitness trackers switch off the screen when the device is not in use. If the arm is then moved towards the body, the tracker recognizes this gesture and switches the screen on so that it can be read.
Activity reminder
If you do not move for a longer period of time, the waterproof fitness tracker recognizes this and reminds you that it is now time for some exercise. This reminder is issued via the display, vibration, acoustic signal or all of the above.
Women’s health
Many fitness trackers also offer the option of tracking your cycle.
Waterproof fitness tracker tests by Consumer Reports and Öko Test
Consumer Reports tested various wearables and fitness trackers in 2020. The test winners were:
- Apple Watch
- Garmin Forerunner
- Garmin vívoactive 4
Well-known brands and manufacturers
The best-known and most popular surf wear brands & manufacturers include
- Garmin
- Polar
- Fitbit
- Huawei
- Samsung
FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about waterproof fitness trackers
Is a fitness tracker waterproof?
Which is the best fitness tracker for swimming?
How much does a waterproof fitness tracker cost?
Is there a difference between heart rate and pulse measurement?
What is the IP protection class?
Conclusion: The most popular waterproof fitness trackers reviewed
Now you know what is important in a waterproof fitness tracker. If you want to take your training to the next level or need a little more motivation, then a fitness tracker is just the thing for you!
Specialist literature, sources & further links
You can find more information on this topic here:
- Consumer Reports: https: //www.test.de/Smartwatch-Fitnessarmband-Laufuhr-Wearables-Test-5254021-0/
Note: BeyondSurfing is not responsible and is not liable for the content of external websites.
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