Best Waterproof Smartwatches In 2022 [Buying Guide] - Gear Hungry (2024)

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Waterproof Smartwatch Buying Guide & FAQ

Features to Look for in Waterproof Smartwatches

Design - Smartwatches are usually more focused on functionality rather than appearance but most people still want something on their wrist that they like to look at. Some may just look like a generic fitness band while other designs look like a traditional watch. The design you choose needs to suit your activities and your needs. Comfort is also important because if you find the watch and band irritating to wear, you'll end up throwing your watch in a drawer and forgetting about it. Fortunately, with more choices available, you can have a waterproof smartwatch that has all the features you want and looks good too.

Specs - Think of all the research you normally do when purchasing a smartphone. You probably put together a list of specs you want on the phone and will choose one that ticks all of the boxes. The same should apply to a waterproof smartwatch. Check for things like battery life, operating systems, the amount of memory, storage, and processor speed. Of course, you also need to consider your budget and how many of your preferred specs you can get in your price range.

Tracking Features - Waterproof smartwatches are fitness bands and watches in one with most of them having an impressive list of tracking features. Almost every smartwatch has things like a pedometer and heart rate monitor but these generally only track the number of steps you take throughout the day and your heart rate during these activities. Some of the more advanced smartwatches also record the distance you've walked or run, the speed you traveled, and the calories you burned. Some of the better waterproof GPS watches will accurately show the path you followed or perhaps swam, and your body's stress levels during activity and even facing stress at work. Think about the activities you intend on engaging in and try to find the tracking features that match your expectations.

Internal Storage - Like a smartphone, computer, or even a tablet, the best waterproof smartwatch must have sufficient internal storage. This is especially important for those who like to run for long periods or distances and want to play great music while they do so. Music is a mighty motivator so you want your waterproof smartwatch to have the capacity to store a hundred or so songs so you can stay motivated listening to your favorite tunes.

Apps - Smartphones give us endless options to download a variety of apps for work, study, and even play. Smartwatches, including waterproof smartwatches, give us these same options. While many waterproof smartwatches have different sport modes and fitness tracking, you may have a favorite app you like to use to track your fitness and you want your smartwatch to be able to support your favorite apps. Check the apps that are compatible or may even come with your waterproof smartwatch, but also check the specs to see how many additional apps it will be able to support.

GPS - There is no denying that GPS has made getting around a lot easier but it has also become an invaluable tool for fitness enthusiasts to want location-backed tracking. This is especially useful for runners, hikers, and cyclists. The additional benefit of a waterproof smartwatch is that you may also be able to track your swimming locations. This may not be so useful in a swimming pool, but if you like to swim at the beach or a local river or lake, GPS is an absolute winner. Best of all, if your waterproof smartwatch has GPS built-in, you won't need to take your smartphone with you when you're out jogging or swimming.

Waterproof Smartwatch FAQ

Q: Can you swim with a waterproof watch?

A: If you have a waterproof smartwatch, you can definitely go swimming. 'Waterproof' defines something immune to or impenetrable by water. If you intend to go swimming with your waterproof smartwatch, ensure that it is indeed waterproof and check the waterproof rating so that you also know the condition and depths you can swim in.

Q: What is the difference between a water-resistant and waterproof watch?

A: There are always going to be questions when it comes to water-resistant versus waterproof watches and the difference is quite simple. Water-resistant refers to a watch that can withstand moisture from humidity or accidentally being splashed by rain or when you wash your hands. However, keep in mind that water-resistant does not mean you should shower or go for a swim while wearing a water-resistant watch.

Waterproof, on the other hand, allows the wearer to take a shower or go for a swim with their watch on. Before you do this, check the waterproof rating as every waterproof watch will have limits on the length of time you can have the watch submerged and the maximum depth it can be plugged into.

Q: Are smartwatches safe?

A: There are a few factors to consider when discussing the safety of wearing a smartwatch. The first one is, are they safe to wear for your health? While they do emit low levels of radiation, smartwatches need to pass FCC standards for health. The second consideration is cyber safety. In this case, you need to see a smartwatch as a mini-computer, and if a hacker can infiltrate your computer, it can also do the same with your smartwatch. Practice the same level of PC or cybersecurity for your smartwatch as you would a PC or any other digital device.

Q: Are Apple watches waterproof?

A: In most cases, Apple watches are water resistant but not waterproof. This means it won't lose its integrity if you get it wet in the rain or while washing your hands, but it is important to try and keep it away from moisture as much as possible.

Q: Are Galaxy watches waterproof?

A: Many Galaxy smartwatches have a waterproof rating because their main purpose is for use by fitness enthusiasts. This means they can be worn during swimming. As an example, a waterproof smartwatch with a waterproof rating of 5 ATM is waterproof up to 50 meters. This means you can wear it in swimming pools and even go snorkeling or diving with your waterproof smartwatch.