10 Best Garmin Waterproof Watch 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Instinct 3 is built tough with a 50mm fiber-reinforced polymer case and a metal-reinforced bezel, making it a solid choice for anyone needing a rugged, waterproof outdoor watch. Its 1.3-inch AMOLED display is bright and clear, which is a nice upgrade over traditional screens in this category, helping you easily read data outdoors. GPS functionality is strong, featuring multi-band GPS with SatIQ technology for accurate navigation and optimized battery use, aided by a 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter. This makes it reliable for hiking, trail running, or other adventures.

Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 18 days under normal use and even longer with power-saving modes, so you won’t worry about frequent charging on trips. Health tracking is comprehensive, including wrist-based heart rate, Pulse Ox, and advanced sleep monitoring, though it’s important to remember these are estimates and not medical-grade. The built-in flashlight with adjustable brightness and strobe modes adds practical value in low-light situations.

The watch is fairly large at 50mm, which might feel bulky for smaller wrists. Also, its weight is just under 60 grams, so it’s not the lightest option if you prefer something more minimal. While it offers smart features like notifications and multisport tracking, it may lack some of the app variety or touchscreen responsiveness found on other smartwatches. This Garmin model is especially well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability, reliable GPS, long battery life, and solid health monitoring in a waterproof package.

The Garmin Venu 3S is a versatile smartwatch that stands out for its impressive health monitoring capabilities and smart features. With a bright 1.2-inch AMOLED display, it not only looks good but also offers clear visibility in various lighting conditions. The watch boasts a solid water resistance rating, making it suitable for swimming and other water-related activities. Users can enjoy up to 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, which is quite generous for a device packed with features.

A key highlight is the Body Battery energy monitoring, allowing you to track your energy levels and recover effectively. It also provides personalized insights into your sleep and stress levels, which can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. With built-in GPS functionality, fitness enthusiasts can track outdoor activities accurately without needing a phone.

The smartwatch also includes a variety of smart features, such as the ability to make and receive calls, respond to messages via voice, and stream music from popular services. For wheelchair users, it has a dedicated mode to track pushes, making it inclusive for a broader audience. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The watch may be a bit bulky for those with smaller wrists, and while it offers a wide range of health metrics, some users may find the data presented to be just estimates rather than precise measurements. Additionally, syncing with certain apps might require a premium subscription, which could deter some potential buyers. In terms of usability, while the touch screen is convenient, navigating through numerous features may feel overwhelming for less tech-savvy users. Nonetheless, its user-friendly interface generally mitigates this concern.

The Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar is a top-tier multisport GPS smartwatch designed for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes who need reliable performance and durability. Its standout feature is the 1.4-inch scratch-resistant Power Sapphire solar lens, which extends battery life significantly by using sunlight — allowing you to go weeks without recharging in smartwatch mode, a huge plus for long adventures. The watch is built tough with a fiber-reinforced polymer case and titanium bezel, making it highly durable and water resistant, ideal for wet and rugged conditions.

GPS functionality is advanced, featuring multi-band SatIQ technology for accurate positioning, helpful for trail running, hiking, or skiing. It also includes built-in maps for golf courses and ski resorts, plus navigation prompts to keep you on track. The heart rate monitoring and other health metrics like Pulse Ox and HRV status provide comprehensive 24/7 health insights, though these are estimations rather than medical-grade readings.

Smart features include a bright touchscreen combined with physical buttons, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, and integration with Wear OS by Google, offering a familiar and versatile user experience. The unique built-in LED flashlight with multiple modes is a practical addition for nighttime activities. The watch is quite large and weighs 89 grams, which might feel bulky for some users, especially those with smaller wrists. Its many features and data can be overwhelming if you prefer a simpler device; nevertheless, it offers a robust waterproof GPS watch experience with excellent battery life, detailed fitness tracking, and smart capabilities that balance ruggedness with modern technology.