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Choosing the right fitness tracker for swimming can enhance your training and help you track your progress accurately. Two popular options on the market are the Suunto Vertical and the Garmin Swim 2. This article compares their features to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build
The Suunto Vertical features a robust design with a durable stainless steel bezel and a high-quality silicone strap. It is designed to withstand harsh conditions, making it suitable for open water and pool swimming. The Garmin Swim 2 has a lightweight, sleek design with a silicone strap and a water-resistant case, offering comfort for extended wear during workouts.
Water Resistance and Durability
Both devices are water-resistant, but the Suunto Vertical offers a higher depth rating, making it ideal for open water swimming and diving activities. The Garmin Swim 2 is rated for 50 meters of water resistance, suitable for pool swimming and surface water activities.
Swimming Metrics and Tracking
Swim Tracking Features
The Suunto Vertical provides detailed swim metrics such as stroke count, distance, pace, calories burned, and SWOLF (a measure of swimming efficiency). It also offers advanced metrics like heart rate during swimming and stroke analysis. The Garmin Swim 2 tracks distance, pace, stroke count, and calories, with additional features like GPS for open water swimming.
Data Accuracy
Both watches are highly accurate in pool environments, with the Suunto Vertical offering more detailed stroke analysis. Garmin’s GPS feature enhances accuracy in open water, providing real-time mapping and route tracking.
GPS and Navigation
The Garmin Swim 2 includes built-in GPS, which is a significant advantage for open water swimmers. It allows for precise route tracking and distance measurement. The Suunto Vertical does not have built-in GPS but can connect to a smartphone for GPS data via Bluetooth.
Battery Life
The Suunto Vertical boasts a longer battery life, lasting up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and approximately 30 hours in GPS mode. The Garmin Swim 2 offers up to 7 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and around 13 hours with GPS active, making it suitable for multi-day training sessions.
Additional Features
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Both devices include wrist-based heart rate sensors, with Suunto providing more detailed metrics during swimming.
- Smart Notifications: Both watches support notifications from your smartphone, including calls, messages, and app alerts.
- Compatibility: Suunto Vertical is compatible with Suunto app and other fitness platforms; Garmin Swim 2 integrates with the Garmin Connect ecosystem.
- Other Sports Modes: Both devices support multiple sports besides swimming, such as running and cycling.
Price and Value
The Suunto Vertical is generally priced higher due to its premium build and advanced features, making it suitable for serious athletes and divers. The Garmin Swim 2 offers excellent value for swimmers focused mainly on pool and open water training without the need for extensive smart features.
Conclusion
Both the Suunto Vertical and Garmin Swim 2 are outstanding swimming watches, each with strengths suited to different users. If you require advanced swim analytics and a rugged design, the Suunto Vertical is a strong choice. For swimmers who prioritize GPS tracking and longer battery life, the Garmin Swim 2 is a compelling option. Consider your specific training needs and environment when choosing between these two devices.