Table of Contents
The Coros Vertix 2S has gained popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and athletes for its rugged design and advanced features. As open water swimming becomes increasingly popular, many swimmers are considering whether this GPS smartwatch is suitable for their needs. In this review, we will explore the capabilities of the Coros Vertix 2S specifically for open water swimming in 2026.
Design and Build Quality
The Vertix 2S boasts a durable titanium bezel and sapphire glass, making it resistant to scratches and impacts. Its water resistance rating of 10 ATM means it can withstand depths of up to 100 meters, ideal for open water swimming. The watch’s robust construction ensures it remains reliable in challenging aquatic environments.
GPS and Navigation Features
One of the standout features of the Vertix 2S is its advanced GPS system. It offers multi-GNSS support, including GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, providing accurate tracking even in remote areas. The watch includes route navigation, breadcrumb mapping, and back-to-start functions, which are valuable for open water swimmers exploring new locations.
Open Water Swimming Capabilities
The Vertix 2S is equipped with a dedicated open water swimming mode. It tracks metrics such as distance, pace, stroke count, and SWOLF score. The watch also records heart rate data through a compatible chest strap, providing comprehensive insights into swimming performance.
Waterproofing and Durability
With a 10 ATM water resistance rating, the Vertix 2S is suitable for continuous exposure to water during open water swims. Its rugged build ensures it can handle saltwater, chlorine, and physical impacts, making it a reliable companion for aquatic adventures.
Battery Life in Open Water Mode
The watch offers impressive battery life, lasting up to 24 days in smartwatch mode and approximately 60 hours in GPS mode. For open water swimming sessions, the battery can comfortably support extended swims without frequent recharging, which is crucial for long-distance events.
Additional Features Beneficial for Swimmers
The Vertix 2S includes features like altitude and barometric pressure monitoring, which can be useful for open water environments affected by weather conditions. Its customizable watch faces and data screens allow swimmers to prioritize the metrics they find most important during their workout.
Limitations and Considerations
While the Vertix 2S is highly capable, it lacks a built-in heart rate sensor for wrist-based monitoring during swimming, relying instead on external chest straps. Additionally, its premium price point may be a consideration for casual swimmers. Some users also report that the interface can be complex for beginners.
Conclusion
Overall, the Coros Vertix 2S is a robust and feature-rich smartwatch suitable for open water swimming in 2026. Its durable construction, accurate GPS, and comprehensive swim metrics make it an excellent choice for serious swimmers and outdoor adventurers. However, those seeking wrist-based heart rate monitoring might need to consider additional accessories. For dedicated open water athletes, the Vertix 2S offers a reliable and high-performance option.