10 Best Garmin Swim Watches 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Venu 3S is a versatile smartwatch that stands out for its colorful AMOLED display and comprehensive health tracking features. With a battery life of up to 10 days in smartwatch mode, it's designed for users who want an extended device life without frequent charging. It includes heart rate monitoring and advanced sleep tracking, providing valuable insights into your overall well-being. One of its notable features is Body Battery energy monitoring, which helps users gauge when they are at their best or need rest based on various personal metrics, enhancing the fitness experience.

For swimming enthusiasts, the watch is equipped with built-in GPS and supports multiple sports modes, including swimming, making it suitable for tracking swim metrics effectively. The ability to take calls and respond to messages directly from the watch is a great addition for those who enjoy smart features. It pairs well with both Android and iOS devices, offering convenience for users across platforms.

While the watch is packed with features, some users may find it a bit overwhelming if they prefer a more straightforward device. Additionally, for users specifically focused on swimming, the lack of detailed swim metrics compared to dedicated swim watches could be a drawback. The Garmin Venu 3S is ideal for fitness enthusiasts who swim and want a multifaceted smartwatch, but those looking for specialized swim tracking may need to consider more swim-focused alternatives.

The Garmin fēnix 8 is a premium multisport smartwatch designed for athletes who need robust features both in and out of the water. It has a solid 40-meter dive rating and leakproof metal buttons, making it reliable for swimming and even scuba diving. The large, bright 1.4-inch AMOLED screen with a sapphire lens ensures excellent visibility underwater and durability against scratches. Garmin’s multisport watches typically offer detailed swim tracking, including stroke count and distance, which should be expected here. Heart rate monitoring is available 24/7 with advanced sensors, though wrist-based heart rate accuracy can sometimes be less precise in water compared to chest straps. GPS tracking is highly accurate with multi-band SatIQ technology, helpful for open water swims or triathlons.

The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 29 days in smartwatch mode and 84 hours in GPS mode, so it can handle long training sessions or adventures without frequent charging. Comfort-wise, the titanium case and pebble gray band provide a durable yet lightweight feel, though the watch’s 51 mm size and 102-gram weight may feel bulky for smaller wrists. Smart features like phone call handling, voice commands, and health monitoring add convenience outside the pool.

For those seeking a top-tier multisport watch that includes swim capabilities among many other functions, the fēnix 8 is a strong choice. Swimmers looking for a more swim-focused, lightweight device might find this model a bit large and packed with extras they may not need.

The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar Sapphire is a rugged multisport GPS smartwatch well-suited for swimmers and outdoor enthusiasts. With a strong water resistance rating allowing dives up to 40 meters, it’s safe for pool and open-water swimming. It offers detailed swim metrics and advanced heart rate monitoring, helping you track performance and recovery effectively. The built-in GPS and topo maps support navigation during outdoor swims or triathlons, which is a plus beyond typical swim watches.

One standout feature is the solar charging option, extending battery life significantly, so you won’t need frequent recharges even on long adventures. The bright 1.4-inch AMOLED touchscreen is easy to read underwater and in sunlight, protected by a durable sapphire lens that resists scratches. This robustness is balanced with a comfortable titanium design that feels solid yet light enough for daily wear.

Smart features like phone calls, music storage, Garmin Pay, and notifications keep you connected without needing your phone nearby. Additionally, the included portable charger and screen protectors add value, ensuring your watch stays powered and protected. The watch’s advanced features and size may be more than what casual swimmers need, and the price tends to be on the higher side compared to simpler swim-focused models. Also, while the touchscreen works well, some users might prefer physical buttons for easier operation during swims. For serious swimmers or triathletes who want a durable, feature-rich watch that doubles as an all-around outdoor companion, the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar Sapphire is a strong choice. Those mainly focused on swimming and looking for simplicity or budget options might find more straightforward watches to consider.