Swimming is one of the most effective full-body workouts, but tracking progress in the water has always been tricky. Unlike running or cycling, where GPS and step counters handle most of the work, swimming requires specialized technology to measure strokes, lap counts, efficiency, and even heart rate performance beneath the surface. That’s where the latest generation of fitness trackers for swimmers comes in.
In 2025, fitness wearables have moved far beyond being just waterproof watches. Modern trackers are designed with advanced swim features, like SWOLF scoring to measure efficiency, stroke recognition for technique improvement, accurate lap counting, and GPS for open-water analysis. Whether you’re training for a triathlon, swimming competitively, or simply enjoying pool sessions for fitness, the right tracker can give you valuable data to improve performance.
But with so many models on the market, which one is right for you? Some devices excel at detailed swim analytics, while others focus on versatility, combining everyday smartwatch features with swim tracking. In this guide, we’ll break down the best fitness trackers for swimmers in 2025, covering options for professionals, casual swimmers, and budget-conscious athletes alike.
What to Look for in a Swimming Fitness Tracker (Buyer’s Guide)
Choosing the best waterproof fitness tracker isn’t just about picking a watch you can take into the pool. Swimming puts unique demands on wearables, so it’s important to focus on features that go beyond basic step or calorie tracking. Here are the key factors to consider when deciding how to choose a swimming fitness tracker in 2025.
Water Resistance & Depth Rating
Not all waterproof devices are created equal. Some trackers can handle only light splashes, while others are built for serious swimmers. Look for a minimum water resistance rating of 5 ATM (50 meters) to ensure reliable performance during pool laps. For open-water or diving activities, a 10 ATM (100 meters) rating or more is recommended.
Stroke Recognition & Swim Metrics
Modern trackers do more than just count laps—they can identify individual strokes (freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, butterfly) and generate performance metrics such as:
- SWOLF scores (a measure of stroke efficiency)
- Lap count & pace tracking
- Stroke length & stroke count
These features are essential for swimmers looking to refine technique and boost efficiency.
Battery Life in Water Mode
GPS and swim-tracking sensors can drain batteries quickly. If you train often or swim long distances, aim for a tracker with 10+ hours of battery life in GPS-swim mode. Casual swimmers may be fine with a smaller battery, but endurance athletes should prioritize efficiency.
Comfort & Fit for Long Swims
Comfort is an underrated factor. A bulky or ill-fitting tracker can create drag or discomfort in the water. Opt for models with lightweight designs, flexible straps, and secure latching mechanisms, especially if you’re logging long training sessions.
Compatibility with Apps & Ecosystems
Most swimmers want to track data beyond just performance. Look for trackers that integrate seamlessly with major ecosystems like Apple Health, Garmin Connect, Strava, or Polar Flow. This makes it easier to review progress, share results, and connect with other athletes.
GPS Tracking for Open Water Swimming
If you swim outdoors, GPS becomes one of the most important features. A tracker with strong satellite connectivity and open-water tracking modes ensures accuracy when swimming across lakes, oceans, or rivers. Some advanced trackers can even map your exact swim route and sync data to training apps.
Smartwatch Features Beyond Swimming
The best fitness trackers aren’t limited to the pool. Most modern devices offer additional features for all-day use, including:
- Heart rate & VO₂ Max monitoring (some models measure underwater HR too)
- Sleep and recovery tracking
- Smart notifications, calls, and music storage
This versatility makes them useful for training balance and overall health.
Best Fitness Trackers for Swimmers in 2025
Apple Watch Series 10
The Apple Watch Series 10, Apple’s latest flagship wearable, improves on previous models with brighter displays, faster processors, and updated swim-focused tracking. The display now offers enhanced underwater visibility, making it easier for swimmers to check pace, distance, and time mid-lap. Integrated dual-frequency GPS provides excellent open-water tracking, while the Apple Fitness+ ecosystem continues to support swim workouts and post-session analysis.
It also brings extended health and wellness features beyond swimming, including body temperature tracking, stress monitoring, sleep stages, and ECG capabilities.
Pros
- Outstanding screen brightness underwater for quick glances
- Accurate GPS tracking for open-water swimming
- Strong integration with Apple Fitness and third-party apps like Strata
- All-day smartwatch functionality: calls, music, messages, and payments
Cons
- Price: Premium cost compared to most competitors
- Battery Life: Requires near-daily charging, especially with GPS tracking
The Apple Watch Series 10 is perfect for triathletes and dedicated Apple users who want a high-performing smartwatch that excels inside and outside the pool.
Garmin Swim 2
The Garmin Swim 2 is Garmin’s dedicated swimming watch, specifically designed for pool training and open-water performance. Unlike multipurpose smartwatches, the Swim 3 specializes in aquatic sports. It provides detailed stroke recognition, autoset detection, and SWOLF scoring, which helps swimmers measure efficiency by combining stroke count with lap time.
Its robust waterproofing (5 ATM+) makes it reliable for extended swim sessions, and the watch connects to Garmin Connect, one of the most comprehensive training apps for swimmers.
Pros
- Dedicated swim features: stroke recognition, efficient lap tracking, SWOLF analysis
- Open-water GPS with high accuracy
- Lightweight design for minimal drag
- Long battery life compared to most smartwatches
Cons
- Style is more sporty than versatile, making it less fashionable for everyday wear
- Fewer smartwatch lifestyle features when compared to Apple or Samsung
The Garmin Swim 2 is tailored to competitive swimmers and data-driven athletes who want advanced swim metrics and high accuracy in performance tracking.
Fitbit Charge 6
The Fitbit Charge 6 is an affordable entry for swimmers who also want an all-in-one fitness tracker. While not as specialized as Garmin or Apple in swim metrics, the Charge offers basic swimming features like lap counting, swim duration, and calorie burn estimation. It boasts Fitbit’s signature focus on wellness data, including heart rate, daily activity, and comprehensive sleep tracking, with optional Fitbit Premium coaching.
The slim design makes it comfortable to wear both in the pool and daily, appealing to swimmers who want something lightweight.
Pros
- Affordable price compared to Apple and Garmin models
- Beginner-friendly design with easy-to-understand swim tracking
- Access to Fitbit Premium for guided workouts and recovery insights
- Lightweight and comfortable for long-term wear
Cons
- Limited advanced swim analytics (no SWOLF scoring or stroke type detection)
- Less accurate GPS compared to Garmin and Apple (GPS requires phone pairing on this model)
The Fitbit Charge 6 is ideal for casual swimmers and fitness enthusiasts who dabble in multiple workouts and want solid all-around performance without breaking the bank.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 represents Samsung’s push to rival Apple in the premium smartwatch category. With strong waterproofing and a swim mode that tracks laps, calories, pace, and duration, the Galaxy Watch 7 has improved its swim tracking accuracy compared to earlier models. It also brings LTE connectivity, so you can leave your phone on shore and still receive notifications.
Integration with Samsung Health and third-party apps allows for versatile metrics tracking, and the watch doubles as a stylish all-day smartwatch with Android-first functionality.
Pros
- Robust waterproofing for both pool and open-water swims
- LTE option for connectivity without a phone
- Seamless integration with Android (Samsung Health ecosystem)
- Stylish design suitable for all-day use
Cons
- Swim metrics not as advanced as Garmin’s dedicated swim watches
- App ecosystem smaller than Apple’s for fitness-specific integrations
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is best for Android users who want a stylish all-day smartwatch that supports occasional but competent swim tracking.
Polar Ignite 3
The Polar Ignite 3 is Polar’s performance-focused fitness watch well-suited for endurance athletes. While it may not offer as many smartwatch features as Apple or Samsung, it shines in swim tracking accuracy and recovery analysis. Polar is known for its industry-leading heart rate monitoring, which extends to swimming (using optical heart rate or chest-strap compatibility).
The Ignite 3 includes a swim-friendly strap design, making it comfortable and secure even during long training sessions. Polar Flow, the brand’s training app, provides deep insights into recovery, VO₂ Max, and performance load.
Pros
- Excellent heart rate accuracy, even underwater with compatible straps
- Comfortable, swim-optimized strap
- Polar Flow app gives advanced recovery and endurance training insights
Cons
- App interface is less intuitive than Apple’s or Fitbit’s
- Fewer lifestyle smartwatch features (notifications and apps limited)
The Polar Ignite 3 is perfect for endurance swimmers who prioritize accurate heart rate tracking and post-training recovery metrics over all-day convenience features.
Coros APEX 2 Pro
The Coros APEX 2 Pro has quickly gained respect among endurance athletes and outdoor adventurers. Known for its incredibly long battery life (up to 40 hours in GPS mode), it’s an excellent option for swimmers who frequently train in open water.
Its swim-focused features include highly accurate GPS, detailed stroke detection, lap counts, pace tracking, and integration with Coros’ app ecosystem. While Coros doesn’t yet have the mainstream recognition of Apple or Garmin, it is well-loved by serious athletes for reliability and depth of training analytics.
Pros
- Extra-long battery life, ideal for ultra-distance training
- Accurate open-water GPS tracking
- Rugged design suitable for outdoor swimmers and adventure athletes
- Strong reputation for reliability among endurance communities
Cons
- Less brand recognition compared to Apple, Garmin, or Fitbit
- Fewer integrations with lifestyle apps
The Coros APEX 2 Pro is the go-to option for ultra-distance swimmers, open-water athletes, and outdoor adventurers who need unbeatable battery and durability.
Wearable Trends in 2025: The Future of Swim Tech
AI-Powered Swim Coaching
One of the most exciting developments in swim tech trends 2025 is the rise of artificial intelligence in form tracking and technique analysis. Instead of simply recording strokes and times, the latest fitness trackers use advanced sensors and machine learning to evaluate swimming efficiency in real time.
- Form Tracking: Trackers now measure body rotation, hand entry angles, and kick rhythm. This data can help athletes spot inefficiencies that even a coach might miss.
- Technique Analysis: Some wearables provide on-the-spot feedback, such as identifying when your stroke count increases due to fatigue or when your stroke symmetry breaks down.
- AI-Driven Coaching: Integrated apps are acting like virtual swim coaches, offering customized drills and workouts based on your performance history. This creates a feedback loop where every swim session becomes not just monitored, but actively improved.
Think of it like having a personal coach on your wrist—analysis that once required underwater cameras and professional training can now happen instantly.
Recovery & Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Tracking
Performance gains aren’t only built in the pool—they happen during recovery. In 2025, fitness trackers for swimmers are emphasizing recovery metrics just as much as workout performance.
- HRV Tracking (Heart Rate Variability): HRV is now one of the most valuable indicators of overall readiness. By monitoring subtle variations in your heartbeat, trackers can measure whether your body is primed for an intense swim session or needs rest.
- Sleep + Recovery Integration: Sleep data is being combined with swim performance to show how poor rest impacts stroke efficiency, lap count, or pace.
- Stress & Fatigue Insights: Many devices now detect stress levels through biometrics and suggest active recovery activities—like low-intensity swims or breathing drills—to optimize performance long-term.
For endurance swimmers and triathletes, recovery analytics help prevent overtraining injuries while ensuring peak performance on race day.
VR/AR Integration in Swimming Analytics
While VR headsets aren’t practical in the pool (yet), augmented reality and virtual reality are beginning to shape how swimmers analyze and improve their technique.
- VR Swim Simulations: Some emerging platforms allow swimmers to upload tracker data into VR environments, replaying swims in a virtual 3D model to visualize form and pacing.
- AR Goggles: Smart swim goggles are gaining traction, showing metrics like split times, lap counts, and pace live in your line of sight while swimming. By 2025, more trackers are syncing seamlessly with these AR goggles for a futuristic training experience.
- Data Integration for Coaches: Coaches can now merge wearable data with visual VR/AR playback, making it easier to spot inefficiencies and craft personalized improvement plans.
Imagine completing a set in the pool, then slipping on AR goggles or using a VR app to replay your swim stroke by stroke. This type of integration could redefine training at every level—from beginners to Olympians.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can fitness trackers really measure heart rate underwater?
Yes, but with caveats. Optical heart rate sensors (which use green LEDs on the back of trackers) tend to be less accurate underwater because water distorts light signals and wrist straps can shift. That said, many swim-focused wearables in 2025—like the Apple Watch Series 10 and Polar Ignite 3—include improved optical sensors that have narrowed this gap significantly.
For the highest accuracy, competitive swimmers often use chest-strap monitors compatible with devices like Garmin or Polar, since chest sensors rely on electrical signals rather than optical readings. If heart rate training is a core part of your swimming workouts, choosing a tracker that supports external HR sensors is a smart move.
Do I need a dedicated swim watch, or will any waterproof fitness tracker work?
Not every waterproof watch is meant for serious swimming. Many entry-level waterproof trackers are rated for light exposure (like 3 ATM), which makes them splash-proof or shower-safe, but they aren’t designed for extended swim sessions.
If you just want to track basic distance, time, and calories in the pool, a general waterproof tracker like the Fitbit Charge 7 works fine. However, if you’re training competitively or want advanced features like stroke analysis, SWOLF scoring, and open-water GPS tracking, you should invest in a dedicated swim-focused device like a Garmin Swim 2, Polar Ignite 3, or Coros APEX 2 Pro.
How accurate are swim trackers compared to professional swim timing systems?
Professional swim timing systems, like Omega Timing used in competitive events, remain the gold standard for precision. Fitness trackers—while highly advanced—use motion sensors and accelerometers, so accuracy can vary depending on stroke technique, turns, and intensity.
Modern wearables are typically 90–95% accurate for lap counts and pace, especially in pools. Open-water swimming introduces more variables (currents, GPS interference), so results may differ slightly. For everyday training and performance tracking, however, swim wearables are highly reliable.
Is GPS reliable in open water swimming?
GPS has become increasingly accurate with the introduction of dual-frequency tracking systems in 2025. Watches like the Apple Watch Series 10 and Coros APEX 2 Pro deliver far more consistent results than older generations, even in challenging environments like oceans or lakes.
Still, water naturally weakens GPS signals, especially if the wrist dips below the surface for extended periods. High-end trackers now combine accelerometer data with GPS positioning to fill in gaps, resulting in far more accurate distance and route mapping.
For triathletes and endurance swimmers, high-end models from Garmin, Coros, and Apple are the most reliable choices.
More: Best Fitness Trackers for Small Wrists
Conclusion
The world of fitness trackers for swimmers in 2025 has evolved far beyond basic waterproofing. Today’s wearables combine advanced swim metrics, recovery insights, and smart features that are useful both in and out of the water. The key is recognizing that no single tracker is “the best” for everyone — the right choice should depend on your swim environment, training style, and personal goals.
If you primarily swim in pools, you’ll want a tracker that excels at lap counting, stroke efficiency, and SWOLF scoring. For open-water swimmers, accurate GPS is essential, along with durability and strong battery life. And if you split time between disciplines — swimming, running, cycling, or strength training — consider a versatile option that balances multi-sport functionality with reliable swim support.
Ultimately, the best fitness tracker is the one that helps you stay motivated, provides data you can actually use, and integrates seamlessly into your overall fitness journey. With the right tracker, every swim can bring you closer to your goals.