A Crucial Feature for Swimmers and Divers
As fitness trackers become increasingly sophisticated, one feature that often gets overlooked is water resistance. However, for swimmers and divers, this is not just a bonus feature—it’s a necessity. Let’s explore why water resistance is critical for aquatic athletes and what to look for when choosing a fitness tracker for water-based activities.
Table of Contents
What Is Water Resistance and How Is It Measured?
Water resistance is a measure of how well a device can withstand being submerged in water. Fitness trackers are often water-resistant, which means they can be worn while swimming or showering. However, the level of water resistance varies from device to device.
Water resistance is typically measured in ATM (atmospheres). One ATM is equivalent to the pressure at sea level. So, a fitness tracker that is rated at 5 ATM can withstand being submerged in water at a depth of 50 meters.
Here are some of the most common water resistance ratings for fitness trackers:
- 3 ATM: This is the most basic level of water resistance. It means that the device can withstand splashes of water, but it should not be submerged.
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- 5 ATM: This level of water resistance means that the device can be submerged in water up to a depth of 50 meters. This is sufficient for swimming and showering.
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- 10 ATM: This level of water resistance means that the device can be submerged in water up to a depth of 100 meters. This is sufficient for water sports, such as scuba diving.
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- 20 ATM: This level of water resistance means that the device can be submerged in water up to a depth of 200 meters. This is the highest level of water resistance and is suitable for professional divers.
It is important to note that even if a fitness tracker is water-resistant, it is still not advisable to submerge it in water for extended periods of time. This can damage the device and void the warranty.
Here are some tips for keeping your fitness tracker water-resistant:
- Rinse it with fresh water after each use.
- Do not use it in saltwater or chlorinated water.
- Do not expose it to extreme temperatures.
- Do not press the buttons underwater.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your fitness tracker will last for many years to come.
Why Water Resistance Matters
Accurate Tracking Underwater
Fitness trackers designed with water resistance can accurately monitor metrics such as distance swum, strokes, and even your swimming style, providing valuable feedback for performance improvement.
Safety
For divers, specially designed fitness trackers can measure depth and time underwater, helping to ensure you stay within safe limits during your dive.
Durability
Water-resistant or waterproof fitness trackers are generally more durable, capable of withstanding not just water, but also sweat, rain, and other elements.
Levels of Water Resistance
Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof
While these terms are often used interchangeably, they’re not the same. Water-resistant devices can handle splashes and sweat but may not survive prolonged submersion. Waterproof trackers can be submerged without damage.
IP Ratings
Look for an IP rating when choosing a device. For example, an IP68 rating signifies that the tracker can be submerged in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.
Table of the IP water resistance ratings:
| IP Code | Description |
|---|---|
| IPX0 | No protection against water. |
| IPX1 | Protected against vertically dripping water. |
| IPX2 | Protected against water projected from a nozzle at 15 degrees from the vertical up to 15 liters per minute for 3 minutes. |
| IPX3 | Protected against water sprayed from a nozzle at 60 degrees from the vertical up to 10 liters per minute for 3 minutes. |
| IPX4 | Protected against splashing water from any direction. |
| IPX5 | Protected against water jets from a nozzle at 12.5 mm nozzle at 3 liters per minute for 3 minutes. |
| IPX6 | Protected against high-pressure water jets from a nozzle at 12.5 mm nozzle at 12.5 liters per minute for 3 minutes. |
| IPX7 | Protected against immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. |
| IPX8 | Protected against immersion in water up to 3 meters for 30 minutes. |
| IPX9K | Protected against high-pressure, high-temperature water jets. |
The first digit of the IP code indicates the protection against solid particles, while the second digit indicates the protection against water. So, an IP67 device is protected against dust and immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
It is important to note that the IP water resistance ratings are only a guide. The actual level of water resistance may vary depending on the device and the manufacturer. It is always best to consult the device’s manual for specific instructions on water resistance.
ATM Ratings
Some fitness trackers use ATM (Atmospheres) to specify water resistance. A rating of 5 ATM or higher is generally suitable for swimming and diving.
Chart of ATM ratings:
| ATM | Description |
|---|---|
| 0 ATM | No protection against water. |
| 3 ATM | Splash resistant. Can withstand water exposure from rain or hand washing. |
| 5 ATM | Water resistant up to 50 meters. Can withstand splashes, rain, and being submerged in shallow water. |
| 10 ATM | Water resistant up to 100 meters. Can withstand swimming, snorkeling, and shallow diving. |
| 20 ATM | Water resistant up to 200 meters. Can withstand swimming, snorkeling, shallow diving, and water sports. |
| 30 ATM | Water resistant up to 300 meters. Can withstand swimming, snorkeling, shallow diving, and water sports. |
| 50 ATM | Water resistant up to 500 meters. Can withstand swimming, snorkeling, shallow diving, water sports, and deep diving. |
The ATM ratings are a more common way to measure water resistance than the IP ratings. However, the two systems are not directly comparable. The ATM ratings are based on the pressure at sea level, while the IP ratings are based on the ability of the device to withstand solid particles.
Recommended Fitness Trackers for Aquatic Activities
Garmin Swim 2
This tracker is designed specifically for swimmers and offers advanced metrics like stroke detection and pacing alerts.
- GPS swimming smartwatch for the pool and open water
- o Battery life: up to 7 days in smartwatch mode, 13 hours in GPS and optical heart rate (OHR) mode and 72 hours in pool and OHR mode
- Pool swim mode: records distance, pace, stroke count, stroke type and SWOLF (gauges swimming efficiency)
- Open-water swim mode: uses built-in GPS for swims in lakes, oceans or rivers; records distance, pace, stroke count, SWOLF, stroke rate and stroke distance
- Offers advanced features for staying on pace, logging drills and more
Apple Watch Series 8
While not specialized for swimming, the latest Apple Watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters and offers reliable swim tracking features.
![Apple Watch Series 8 [GPS + Cellular 45mm] Smart Watch w/Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band - M/L. Fitness Tracker, Blood Oxygen & ECG Apps, Always-On Retina Display, Water Resistant](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41aSKpvnsFL._SL160_.jpg)
- WHY APPLE WATCH SERIES 8 — Your essential companion for a healthy life is now even more powerful. Advanced sensors provide insights to help you better understand your health. New safety features can get you help when you need it. The bright, Always-On Retina display is easy to read, even when your wrist is down.
- CELLULAR CONNECTIVITY — Send a text, make a call, and stream music without your iPhone, even while traveling internationally. Use Family Setup to manage Apple Watch for family members who don’t have an iPhone.
- EASILY CUSTOMIZABLE — Available in a range of sizes and materials, with dozens of bands to choose from and watch faces with complications tailored to whatever you’re into.
- INNOVATIVE SAFETY FEATURES — Crash Detection and Fall Detection can automatically connect you with emergency services in the event of a severe car crash or a hard fall. And Emergency SOS provides urgent assistance with the press of a button.
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Suunto D5
For divers, the Suunto D5 not only tracks your dive but also offers GPS navigation and even alerts for decompression stops.
- Modes: Air / Nitrox / Free / Gauge / Watch. Suunto Fused 2 RGBM decompression model
- Exchangeable straps with Quick Release spring bar (both for diving and for everyday style). Weight: 90g
- Water resistance 100m. Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Full color MIP display with adjustable LED backlight. Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth to new Suunto App
- Wireless tank pressure up to 3 tank pressure readings (with Tank Pod). User-updatable software & customizable dive screens. 18 languages
Water Resistance in Fitness Trackers FAQ
Q: Can water-resistant fitness trackers handle saltwater?
A: Some can, but always check the manufacturer’s guidelines, as saltwater can be corrosive.
Q: Is it safe to charge my fitness tracker right after swimming?
A: It’s advisable to completely dry off the charging ports before connecting your device to a charger.
Q: Can water resistance wear off over time?
A: The water-resistant seal can deteriorate with age or damage, so regular inspections are advised.
Conclusion
Water resistance in fitness trackers is not a one-size-fits-all feature; it varies in importance depending on the user’s needs. For swimmers and divers, it’s indispensable for both performance tracking and safety. When choosing a fitness tracker for aquatic activities, consider factors like the level of water resistance, durability, and the range of metrics it can track. With the right device, you can take your water-based workouts to new depths—literally.
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