Top 7 Best Garmin Watches for Running and Swimming in 2025 – Waterproof & Accurate
Looking for a Garmin watch that can handle both your morning runs and weekend pool laps? In 2025, Garmin continues to dominate the fitness wearables market with powerful multisport watches designed for runners, swimmers, and everyone in between. Whether you’re training for a triathlon or just want accurate tracking in the water and on the road, these are the best Garmin models to consider.
Contents
Best Garmin Watch for Running and Swimming
1. Garmin Forerunner 965
Best Overall for Running and Swimming
Why Choose It:
- Combines cutting-edge performance features with lightweight design.
- Brilliant AMOLED display perfect for outdoor visibility.
Key Specs:
- Display: 1.4″ AMOLED
- GPS: Multi-band, SatIQ
- Swim Features: Stroke type, distance, pace, SWOLF, heart rate under water
- Battery Life: Up to 23 days (smartwatch mode)
- Water Rating: 5 ATM
- Price (May 2025): $599
Standout: Ideal for serious athletes who demand detailed swim metrics and ultra-accurate running data.
2. Garmin Fenix 7 Pro
Best for Multisport & Durability
Why Choose It:
- Built like a tank with solar charging and endless tracking options.
- Great for trail running, open water swimming, and rugged environments.
Key Specs:
- Display: 1.3″ MIP (always-on)
- GPS: Multi-band GNSS
- Swim Features: Pool & open water, HR tracking, auto rest detection
- Battery Life: Up to 37 days (solar model)
- Water Rating: 10 ATM
- Price (May 2025): $799+
Standout: Built for triathletes and explorers who need reliability in extreme conditions.
3. Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2)
Best for Advanced Mapping & AMOLED Lovers
Why Choose It:
- Gorgeous AMOLED screen with full mapping and navigation.
- Packed with training readiness and VO2 Max tools.
Key Specs:
- Display: 1.3″ AMOLED
- GPS: Multi-band, topo map support
- Swim Features: Pool swim, open water, stroke detection, HR under water
- Battery Life: Up to 16 days (smartwatch mode)
- Water Rating: 10 ATM
- Price (May 2025): $899
Standout: Great for users who want smartwatch style with pro-level features.
4. Garmin Forerunner 265
Best Mid-Range Pick
Why Choose It:
- Solid balance of price, performance, and AMOLED display.
- Lightweight and comfortable for everyday wear.
Key Specs:
- Display: 1.3″ AMOLED
- GPS: Multi-band GNSS
- Swim Features: Basic pool metrics, HR tracking
- Battery Life: Up to 13 days
- Water Rating: 5 ATM
- Price (May 2025): $449
Standout: Excellent entry point into high-performance running and swimming watches without breaking the bank.
5. Garmin Venu 3
Best Lifestyle Fitness Watch for Swimmers
Why Choose It:
- Focus on wellness with stylish looks and fitness tools.
- Includes swim modes and sleep tracking.
Key Specs:
- Display: 1.4″ AMOLED
- GPS: Standard GPS
- Swim Features: Pool swim, heart rate tracking
- Battery Life: Up to 14 days
- Water Rating: 5 ATM
- Price (May 2025): $449
Standout: Great for casual users who swim regularly and want a smartwatch look.
6. Garmin Descent G1 Solar
Best for Open Water and Diving Enthusiasts
Why Choose It:
- Combines dive watch durability with fitness tracking.
- Excellent for ocean swimmers and divers.
Key Specs:
- Display: MIP monochrome
- GPS: Multi-GNSS
- Swim Features: Pool/open water, dive profiles, HR
- Battery Life: Up to 21 days
- Water Rating: 10 ATM (plus dive modes)
- Price (May 2025): $549
Standout: If your swims take you beyond the pool, this is your go-to Garmin.
7. Garmin Swim 2
Best Budget Garmin for Swimmers
Why Choose It:
- Designed specifically for swimmers.
- Lightweight, straightforward, and affordable.
Key Specs:
- Display: 1.04″ MIP
- GPS: Standard GPS
- Swim Features: Stroke count, pace, SWOLF, HR underwater
- Battery Life: Up to 7 days
- Water Rating: 5 ATM
- Price (May 2025): $249
Standout: A no-nonsense swimming-focused watch with all the essentials.
Table Comparison – Best of Garmin Watch for Running and Swimming
| Model | Display | Swim Features | GPS Type | Battery Life | Waterproof Rating | Price (May 2025) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forerunner 965 | 1.4\” AMOLED | Stroke, SWOLF, HR under water | Multi-band | Up to 23 days | 5 ATM | $599 |
| Fenix 7 Pro | 1.3\” MIP | Pool, Open Water, HR | Multi-band | Up to 37 days | 10 ATM | $799+ |
| Epix Pro Gen 2 | 1.3\” AMOLED | Pool, Open Water, HR | Multi-band | Up to 16 days | 10 ATM | $899 |
| Forerunner 265 | 1.3\” AMOLED | Basic Pool, HR | Multi-band | Up to 13 days | 5 ATM | $449 |
| Venu 3 | 1.4\” AMOLED | Pool, HR | Standard GPS | Up to 14 days | 5 ATM | $449 |
| Descent G1 Solar | Monochrome MIP | Pool, Open Water, Dive, HR | Multi-GNSS | Up to 21 days | 10 ATM | $549 |
| Swim 2 | 1.04\” MIP | Stroke, SWOLF, HR under water | Standard GPS | Up to 7 days | 5 ATM | $249 |
Final Thoughts
Garmin offers a diverse lineup for swimmers and runners in 2025. From pro-level watches like the Forerunner 965 and Fenix 7 Pro to budget-friendly picks like the Swim 2, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re chasing PRs on land or laps in the water, these watches will help you track every heartbeat, stroke, and step.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can Garmin watches track swimming and running in the same workout?
A: Yes, especially models like the Forerunner 965 and Fenix 7 Pro that support multisport or triathlon modes.
Q: Are Garmin watches waterproof enough for diving?
A: Most are water-resistant up to 5–10 ATM. The Descent G1 Solar is specifically designed for diving.
Q: Which Garmin is best for beginners who swim casually?
A: The Garmin Swim 2 or Venu 3 are both great options for casual swimmers with essential swim tracking features.
Q: Do Garmin watches track heart rate while swimming?
A: Yes, most newer Garmin models (including Swim 2, Forerunner 965, Fenix 7 Pro) offer underwater heart rate tracking.
Q: Can I use Garmin watches in open water swims?
A: Yes, models like Fenix 7 Pro, Epix Pro, and Descent G1 Solar are excellent for open water swimming.
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