Best Watches for Tracking Open Water Swimming: Top Picks for 2024

When it comes to open water swimming, having the right equipment can make a significant difference in performance and safety. Among the essential tools, a reliable watch designed specifically for open water swimming is paramount. These watches not only track time but also offer a range of features like GPS navigation, heart rate monitoring, and even stroke analysis. In this article, we'll explore the best watches available in 2024 for open water swimming, highlighting their key features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.

Why a Specialized Watch Matters

Open water swimming presents unique challenges compared to pool swimming. The unpredictable nature of open water environments, such as varying currents, weather conditions, and distances, requires a watch that can handle these variables. A specialized open water swimming watch provides GPS tracking, which is crucial for mapping your swim routes, and often comes with features like water temperature sensors and safety alerts.

Top Features to Look for in an Open Water Swimming Watch

1. GPS Tracking: Accurate GPS is essential for tracking your swim routes, distance, and speed in open water. It helps you stay on course and provides detailed post-swim analysis.

2. Water Resistance: Look for a watch that offers at least 50 meters of water resistance. This ensures the watch can handle prolonged exposure to water without malfunctioning.

3. Heart Rate Monitoring: An optical heart rate monitor is useful for tracking your exertion levels, allowing you to train within your target heart rate zones.

4. Battery Life: Open water swims can be long, so a watch with extended battery life is crucial. Some watches offer up to 20 hours of battery life in GPS mode.

5. Durability: Open water environments can be harsh. A watch with a durable, scratch-resistant screen and a robust build will last longer.

6. Swim Metrics: Advanced metrics like stroke rate, stroke count, and SWOLF (a measure of swimming efficiency) can help improve your technique.

Top Watches for Open Water Swimming in 2024

1. Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar

   • GPS and Navigation: The Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar offers multi-band GPS for ultra-precise tracking, even in challenging environments.
   • Battery Life: With up to 42 hours in GPS mode, this watch is ideal for long swims.
   • Swim Metrics: It includes comprehensive swim metrics such as stroke type detection, stroke count, and SWOLF.
   • Other Features: Solar charging extends battery life, and the watch includes advanced health monitoring features like sleep tracking and heart rate variability.

   Pros:

   • Excellent battery life, enhanced by solar charging.
   • Comprehensive swim metrics and navigation features.
   • Durable and water-resistant up to 100 meters.

   Cons:

   • The price point is on the higher side.
   • Slightly bulky design may not appeal to all users.

2. Suunto 9 Peak Pro

   • GPS and Navigation: The Suunto 9 Peak Pro offers turn-by-turn navigation and route planning, making it ideal for exploring new swim locations.
   • Battery Life: It provides up to 25 hours of battery life in the best GPS mode.
   • Swim Metrics: Tracks key swim metrics, including distance, pace, and SWOLF.
   • Other Features: The watch is lightweight, with a sleek design that doesn’t compromise on durability or water resistance (100 meters).

   Pros:

   • Lightweight and comfortable to wear.
   • High-precision GPS and navigation.
   • Strong build quality with excellent water resistance.

   Cons:

   • Less comprehensive swim metrics compared to competitors.
   • Limited smartwatch features.

3. Apple Watch Ultra

   • GPS and Navigation: The Apple Watch Ultra features dual-frequency GPS for highly accurate tracking, even in remote locations.
   • Battery Life: Offers up to 36 hours of battery life, with an optimized mode for extending this during longer swims.
   • Swim Metrics: Provides detailed swim tracking, including automatic stroke detection and real-time pace alerts.
   • Other Features: The watch includes a dive computer and depth gauge, making it suitable for both swimming and diving.

   Pros:

   • Versatile with features for swimming, diving, and everyday use.
   • Intuitive interface and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.
   • Rugged design with water resistance up to 100 meters.

   Cons:

   • Expensive compared to other options.
   • Battery life could be better for ultra-endurance events.

4. Coros Vertix 2

   • GPS and Navigation: The Coros Vertix 2 provides dual-frequency satellite communication for exceptional GPS accuracy, even in the most challenging conditions.
   • Battery Life: An outstanding 140 hours of battery life in standard GPS mode, making it the best option for ultra-long swims.
   • Swim Metrics: Includes essential swim metrics like distance, pace, and stroke count.
   • Other Features: The watch is designed for extreme environments, with a titanium bezel and scratch-resistant sapphire glass.

   Pros:

   • Unmatched battery life.
   • Highly durable and built for extreme conditions.
   • Precise GPS tracking.

   Cons:

   • Heavier than other options.
   • Limited smartwatch functionality.

Comparison Table

Conclusion

Selecting the right watch for open water swimming depends on your specific needs and budget. For those who prioritize battery life and durability, the Coros Vertix 2 stands out as the best choice. If you're looking for a feature-rich option with a sleek design, the Garmin Forerunner 955 Solar or the Suunto 9 Peak Pro are excellent picks. The Apple Watch Ultra offers versatility for those who want a multi-functional device that can be used beyond swimming. Whichever watch you choose, ensure it meets your requirements for GPS accuracy, battery life, and swim metrics to get the most out of your open water swimming experience.