If you are asking, “What is the best waterproof smartwatch?”, you aren't just looking for a gadget that survives a splash while washing your hands. You are likely looking for a durable companion for lap swimming, surfing, triathlon training, or even recreational diving.

Not all “waterproof” watches are created equal. While standard smartwatches offer basic water resistance, the top contenders provide advanced metrics like stroke detection, depth gauges, and dedicated wet-weather modes.

Below, we break down the top three waterproof smartwatches on the market to help you decide which one suits your lifestyle.

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1. Apple Watch Ultra 2

Best For: iPhone Users, Divers, and Adventure Sports

If you are deep in the Apple ecosystem and want the absolute best protection against the elements, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is unrivaled. Unlike the standard Series 9 (which is fine for swimming), the Ultra 2 is certified to EN13319, the internationally recognized standard for diving accessories.

It features a built-in depth gauge and water temperature sensor. When paired with the Oceanic+ app, it functions as a capable dive computer for recreational scuba diving up to 40 meters.

• Key Waterproof Feature: WR100 rating (water-resistant to 100 meters) and high-speed water sports capability.

• Swim Features: Automatic stroke detection, kickboard detection, and SWOLF score calculation.

Note: The “Action Button” on the side is a game-changer in the water, allowing you to start workouts or mark segments without fumbling with a wet touchscreen.

2. Garmin Fenix 7 Pro (Sapphire Solar)

Best For: Triathletes, Endurance Swimmers, and Data Geeks

For serious athletes who value battery life over smartphone integration, the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro is the gold standard. While it lacks the vibrant AMOLED screen of the Apple Watch (though the new Garmin Epix has one), its MIP display is perfectly visible underwater and in direct sunlight.

The standout feature here is the physical button interface. Touchscreens become unreliable when wet; Garmin allows you to navigate the entire watch using buttons, which is essential for swimmers and surfers.

• Key Waterproof Feature: 10 ATM rating (withstands pressures equivalent to a depth of 100 meters).

• Swim Features: Open-water swim tracking with GPS, drill logging, critical swim speed (CSS), and underwater heart rate monitoring.

3. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic

Best For: Android Users and Casual Swimmers

If you use an Android phone and need a stylish watch that transitions from the boardroom to the pool, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is a strong choice. It brings back the beloved rotating bezel, which, much like Garmin’s buttons, makes navigation easier when your hands are wet.

While it isn't designed for high-impact water sports or scuba diving like the Ultra 2, it holds an IP68 and 5 ATM rating, making it perfectly safe for lap swimming and snorkeling.

• Key Waterproof Feature: 5 ATM + IP68 (Water resistant up to 50 meters for 10 minutes).

• Swim Features: Water Lock mode (ejects water from speakers), lap tracking, and distance metrics.

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Technical Comparison: Which One Fits Your Needs?

To help you answer “what is the best waterproof smartwatch” for your specific needs, compare the specifications below:

Feature	Apple Watch Ultra 2	Garmin Fenix 7 Pro	Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
Best For	Divers & iPhone Users	Triathletes & Endurance	Casual Swim & Android Daily
Water Rating	WR100 (100m) / EN13319 Dive	10 ATM (100m)	5 ATM + IP68 (50m)
Safe Activities	Scuba (40m), High-speed water sports	Surface swimming, Snorkeling, High-speed sports	Pool swimming, Shallow ocean swimming
Battery Life	Up to 36 hours (normal)	Up to 18-22 days (with solar)	Up to 40 hours
Control	Touch + Action Button	5 Physical Buttons + Touch	Touch + Rotating Bezel
Compatibility	iPhone Only	iPhone & Android	Android Only

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Quick Buying Guide: Understanding Ratings

When shopping for the best waterproof smartwatch, marketing terms can be confusing. Here is what you need to know:

1. IP68 is not enough for swimming: This generally means dust tight and protection against immersion, but it doesn't account for water pressure (like the force of your arm hitting the water).

2. Look for ATM Ratings:

   • 5 ATM: Good for showering and pool swimming.

   • 10 ATM: Good for surfing, snorkeling, and high-speed water sports.

   • Dive Certified (EN13319): Required if you plan to Scuba dive (only the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and specific Garmin Descent models have this).

3. Touchscreens vs. Buttons: Water conducts electricity, which confuses capacitive touchscreens (phantom touches). For serious swimming, prioritize a watch with physical buttons or a dedicated “Water Lock” mode.

Final Verdict

So, what is the best waterproof smartwatch?

• Choose the Apple Watch Ultra 2 if you want the ultimate “do-it-all” device and you are an iPhone user who might dive or surf.

• Choose the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro if you are training for a triathlon or want a battery that lasts weeks, not days.

• Choose the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic if you want a reliable everyday tracker for pool laps that pairs perfectly with your Android phone.