Top Sports Watches for Men Waterproof for Swimming

When it comes to choosing the best sports watch for men, especially for swimming, the decision isn’t just about looking for something that can withstand a splash.

If you're an avid swimmer or water sports enthusiast, you need a sports watch that offers more than just a waterproof rating. It must be engineered to meet the specific demands of swimming, from water resistance and swim metrics to durability and comfort.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the key features of the best waterproof sports watches for men, highlight important considerations for swimmers, and give you recommendations for models that excel in real-world swimming conditions.

Why Waterproof is Essential for Swimming Sports Watches for Men

Waterproof ratings are the most critical factor when selecting a sports watch for swimming. But here's the thing: not all "waterproof" watches are created equal.

To put it simply, a waterproof rating tells you how resistant the watch is to water, but it’s the depth of that resistance that makes a real difference, especially for swimmers.

Waterproof Ratings Explained:

• 50 meters (5 ATM): Suitable for everyday activities like rain or splashes but not for swimming or diving.
• 100 meters (10 ATM): This is the sweet spot for swimmers, allowing you to swim in pools and even do light water activities.
• 200 meters (20 ATM): Ideal for serious swimmers and divers. If you’re into swimming laps or competitive swimming, this is the type of water resistance you’ll want.

For swimming, you need a watch that not only resists water but can withstand pressure from diving into the pool or the ocean. Watches with higher waterproof ratings, such as 100m or more, ensure that your device remains functional, no matter how many laps you swim or how deep you dive.

Real-life usage shows that higher-rated waterproof watches maintain accuracy and functionality in the water, making them an indispensable tool for swimmers.

Key Features to Look for in Waterproof Sports Watches for Men

When selecting a waterproof sports watch for swimming, it’s essential to consider the features that will directly enhance your swimming experience, both in terms of performance tracking and ease of use.

Swim-Specific Modes and Metrics:

Swim-specific modes track key performance metrics, such as stroke count, lap time, and distance. More advanced models can even break down your stroke style like freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, and offer insights into your efficiency and form. This is crucial for swimmers who want to optimize their training.

Heart Rate Monitoring Underwater:

Waterproof sports watches with heart rate sensors are essential for swimmers who want to keep track of their fitness levels during swim sessions. However, the challenge is ensuring the heart rate monitor works under water.

Many watches now use optical sensors, but you must check whether the watch’s sensor delivers accurate results in a submerged environment.

Comfortable Fit and Design:

For comfort, especially during long swim sessions, you’ll need a watch with a lightweight, ergonomic design. A snug but comfortable silicone band will keep the watch secure, even while diving or making fast turns.

Watch designs that are streamlined and don’t protrude too much from the wrist are ideal for reducing drag in the water.

Durability and Scratch Resistance:

Swimmers often overlook the importance of durability. A high-quality, scratch-resistant display ensures that your watch can handle the inevitable wear and tear, both from the water and the rough environments typical of outdoor swimming.

Anti-scratch glass, reinforced materials, and corrosion-resistant components are vital.

Real-life feedback from swimmers consistently points to these features as essential for ensuring both the longevity of the watch and the accuracy of your swim metrics. By incorporating these features, sports watches for men can significantly enhance the swimming experience.

Top Waterproof Sports Watches for Men for Swimming

There are many waterproof sports watches for men on the market, but only a few stand out in terms of their swimming capabilities. Based on real-world usage and expert reviews, here are some top recommendations:

KOSPET TANk M4

The KOSPET Tank M4 is a rugged smartwatch with 100m water resistance, suitable for both pool and open-water swimming. It tracks swim distance, lap times, and stroke types, and includes heart rate monitoring.

Its durable design and additional features like offline maps and walkie-talkie functionality make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Garmin Swim 2

The Garmin Swim 2 is designed specifically for swimmers. It offers 50m water resistance and tracks key swim metrics such as stroke count, SWOLF score, and heart rate underwater.

Its open-water swim mode utilizes built-in GPS to monitor distance and pace in lakes, oceans, or rivers. This makes it an excellent choice for swimmers seeking detailed performance insights. 

Suunto 7

The Suunto 7 combines 50m water resistance with over 70 sport modes, including swimming. It tracks swim distance, laps, and stroke style, and offers GPS functionality for open-water swims.

Its Wear OS platform provides access to various apps, making it a versatile choice for those who engage in multiple sports. 

These models stand out due to their swim-specific features, durable designs, and advanced performance-tracking capabilities. Whether you’re swimming in a pool or the open water, these watches deliver accurate data to help you improve your technique and overall fitness.

Multi-Sport Functionality Waterproof Sports Watches 

While swimming may be your primary concern, a lot of swimmers also engage in other sports, such as running, cycling, and hiking. If you're a triathlete or just someone who enjoys mixing up your workouts, look for a waterproof sports watch that offers multi-sport functionality.

Multi-sport watches allow you to seamlessly track different types of workouts—without needing multiple devices. Some models even let you switch between swim, run, and bike modes automatically. This feature is crucial for triathletes or anyone involved in multi-discipline training.

Real-life application: The Kospet TANK M4 and Suunto 7 both excel in this area, as they offer modes for running, cycling, and swimming. Triathletes often highlight how these watches help streamline their training by tracking multiple sports in one device.

Choosing the Best Waterproof Sports Watch for Men for Swimming

When selecting the best waterproof sports watch for swimming, consider the following factors:

• Waterproof Depth: Ensure the watch has at least a 50m waterproof rating, but go for 100m or 200m if you're a serious swimmer.
• Swim Metrics: Look for watches that track key swim metrics like stroke count, pace, and heart rate underwater.
• Fit and Comfort: Opt for lightweight, comfortable designs that won’t weigh you down during swimming.
• Battery Life: Ensure that the watch can last for the duration of your training or competition—some swim sessions can last an hour or more, and you'll need a watch that can keep up.

By understanding your needs—whether you're a casual swimmer or training for competitions—you can choose a waterproof sports watch that enhances your swimming performance.

Conclusion

Choosing the best waterproof sports watch for swimming requires careful consideration of swim-specific features, water resistance, comfort, and durability. With options like the Garmin Swim 2, Suunto 7, and Kospet TANK M4, you can find the perfect companion to track your swimming metrics and enhance your performance. Whether you're swimming in the pool or venturing into open water, the right sports watch will give you the data you need to push your limits and reach your fitness goals.

FAQs

Can I wear a sports watch for swimming in saltwater?

Yes, most waterproof sports watches are designed to withstand saltwater, but it’s always best to rinse the watch after each swim to prevent corrosion.

How do I ensure my sports watch stays waterproof?

Ensure the watch is sealed properly by following manufacturer instructions. Regularly check the seals for any wear and tear.

Will the heart rate monitor work underwater?

Many modern sports watches have optical heart rate sensors that work underwater, but accuracy can vary. Make sure to check reviews or test before purchasing.