SIMPLE ANSWER: The Garmin Vivosmart HR is water resistant and swim-proof up to 50 meters. Technically, this smart activity tracker is not waterproof, even if it offers a 5 ATM rating that allows you to swim with it or take a shower without a problem.
Amazon: Garmin Vivosmart HR
Amazon: Garmin Vivosmart 4
What Does Waterproof Really Mean?
Declaring an activity tracker as waterproof is a little bit tricky. Most of these devices have an IP67 or IP68 rating which means that they are water resistant (not waterproof), and can be submerged into the water for a short period of time. Speaking about Garmin Vivosmart HR, with this tracker you can swim, snorkeling, take a shower or bath, or go into the 50 meters depth water. These are the conditions in which this model was tested.
If you need an official statement than Garmin has an entire website page dedicated to water rating where you can read: “We rigorously test our devices to make sure they’ll survive the activities for which they were designed. You should note that even if a device is above a depth it is rated for, it might still suffer water ingression if it is subjected to an activity that creates pressure on it that exceeds that depth rating.”
A deeper look at the 5 ATM rating: a model with this water rating is suitable for – splashes, rain or snow, showering, swimming, diving into water and snorkeling. On the other hand, unsuitable for scuba diving and high-speed watersports.
Is There Any Waterproof Garmin Tracker?
If you are looking for a waterproof Garmin tracker, you are doing a wrong search. Instead, you should look for a tracker with water resistant feature. These trackers are tested in rough conditions and designed for activities users doing the most. Keep in the mind, a 5 ATM rating of Vivosmart HR means that you have a wearable able to withstand water pressure of 50-meter depth. In most scenarios, you will not go so deep.
Garmin Vivosmart HR – Is It Worth To Buy?
The Garmin Vivoactive HR is an activity tracker for those that want to own a wearable tech that goes beyond simply counting steps or stairs climbed. This water-resistant device has tons of pre-installed activity profiles, like skiing or SUPping (Stand Up Paddleboarding), as well as a huge set of abilities to track your golf game.
Best Garmin Tracker For Swimmers
Garmin Vivosmart 4
The Garmin Vivosmart 4 is a fantastic everyday wear tracker that is able to monitor heart rate, blood oxygen levels and calories you burn the day at an affordable price. It also comes with a 5 ATM rating which means this wearable is water resistant up to 50 meters.
Garmin Vivosmart 3
An answer to Fitbit Alta HR tracker brings new features, improved tracking, and a slimmer profile. The Vivosmart 3 is a cool little device for anyone who is looking for basic fitness monitoring needs. Wearing this tracker is comfortable and it can also withstand almost any activity that you put it through.
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