Have you ever wondered if you are training at the perfect intensity in the pool? Many swimmers push themselves too hard or not hard enough. Knowing your real effort level is tough when you are surrounded by water. Traditional heart rate monitors often struggle underwater, leaving many swimmers guessing about their true workout zones.
Choosing the right heart rate monitor (HRM) for swimming feels like a maze. You need a device that stays accurate despite splashes, submersion, and the repetitive arm movements. A bad choice means wasted money and inaccurate data. You deserve technology that keeps up with your laps, not one that quits halfway through your set.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down what makes a swimming HRM reliable. You will learn exactly which features matter most for accurate readings in the water. By the end, you will confidently pick the best monitor to unlock better performance and smarter training.
Top Heart Rate Monitor For Swimming Recommendations
- VERSATILITY: Polar OH1 allows you full freedom of movement. Wear Polar OH1 monitor either on your arm , or against your temple.
- COMFORT: The soft textile armband keeps Polar OH1 snug around your arm. The goggle strap clip included in the Polar OH1 + package keeps Polar HR sensor steadily in place.
- CONNECTIVITY: Pair the OH1 with the free Polar Flow app, countless 3rd party apps, or smart watch (Polar, Garmin, Apple, Suunto and others), and equipment via Bluetooth or ANT+ simultaneously.
- CONVENIENCE: 6-LED optical HR sensor has a chargeable battery and an in-built memory so you can record your heart rate with OH1 alone and transfer the data to your phone afterwards.
- DIVERSITY: Polar OH1 suits all users. Track your heart rate in real time or transfer data to your phone afterwards.
- WORKS WITH EVERYTHING: Polar HRM works with ALL HRM compatible Equipment.
- SUPREME ACCURACY: Widely recognized for its top precision by many sources, Polar H10 is the most accurate heart rate sensor in Polar's history. Polar H10 provides top quality measurement.
- CONNECTIVITY: Bluetooth, ANT plus and 5 kHz provide an excellent variety of connection options. You can use Bluetooth and ANT plus connections simultaneously as well as two Bluetooth connections simultaneously.
- POLAR PRO CHEST STRAP: With improved electrodes, an easy-to-use buckle and silicone dots, the strap is comfortable and interference-free.
- VERSATILITY: Polar H10 is fully waterproof and it has internal memory for multiple hours.
- COMFORT: Polar Verity Sense keeps your wrist free for maximum comfort and freedom of movement. Just slip it on your upper or lower arm, clip it on your goggles or place it snug and firm against your skin under tight-fitting clothing.
- CONVENIENCE: With only one button, using Polar Verity Sense couldn't be easier. Only 3cm wide, and less than 1cm thin: it’s hard to believe that something so tiny could hold such immense power.
- MULTIPLE CONNECTIVITY OPTIONS: Live heart rate broadcasting, 2 simultaneous Bluetooth channels, limitless ANT plus connections, and compatible with a host of 3rd party apps.
- VERSATILITY: Polar Verity Sense suits countless different applications. You can either follow your heart rate in real time on a connected device or app or record your session and transfer your data to your phone afterwards.
- ACCURACY: Verity Sense is able to accurately track heart rate when placed against the skin on your upper arm, forearm, or can be clipped to goggles.
- Multisport Heart Rate Belt: Ideal for sports where wrist heart rate measurements aren't possible, this comfortable, accurate heart rate belt is compatible with blue tooth-enabled devices
- Get Connected: Connect to your favorite sports apps and services from the Suunto app to get more from your watch; Share with your sports communities and access specific training analysis and guidance
- Suunto Accessories: From watch straps, heart rate belts, and dive accessories to bike mounts, bike sensors, charging cables, and more, Suunto has what you need to get even more from your Suunto watch
- Adventure Starts Here: Combining Scandinavian design with ultra durable materials, our watches track your sports, daily activity, and sleep to help you keep life, training and recovery in balance
- Authentic Heritage: Founded in 1936, Suunto brings over 80 years of high quality heritage craftsmanship, relentless accuracy, and pioneering innovation to our watches, compasses, and dive products
- Precise Heart Rate Monitor Armband: Delivers accurate real-time tracking for running, gym workouts, and indoor or outdoor cycling. Pair via Bluetooth or ANT+ to your sports watch, fitness equipment, or fitness apps to monitor workout intensity and performance
- Recovery Insights: This heart rate monitor's HRV mode captures precise RR interval data from subtle heartbeat variations, giving you deeper insight into training, sleep quality, and daily stress. Stream RRi data to HRV4Training, Morpheus Training, Welltory, and other HRV apps
- Secure Comfortable Fit: A lightweight, breathable strap adjusts securely to your forearm, bicep, or tricep and stays put during intense workouts. A wearable heart rate monitor for exercise that serves a dependable alternative to restrictive chest straps
- Long-Lasting Connectivity: Pair this Bluetooth heart rate monitor with ANT+ or Bluetooth devices for stable connections throughout your training. Up to 24 hours of continuous battery life helps you stay focused on your workout, not on recharging or reconnecting
- IP68 Waterproof & Durable: Built to withstand sweat, rain, and demanding training conditions, the Rhythm+ 2.0 arm heart rate monitor is ready for running, gym workouts, and high-intensity sessions. Rugged construction supports consistent performance indoors or outdoors
- COROS Heart Rate Monitor armband is designed for measuring heart rate during sports and activities. It is not intended to aid in collecting heart rate data for daily tracking purposes.
- MULTIPLE CONNECTIONS: The COROS heart rate monitor chest strap is designed to work seamlessly with your COROS watches and apps, it can also simultaneously pair with up to three devices, including Sports Watches, Indoor Trainers, Bike, Computers, Phones, Apps, Treadmills, and Indoor Rowers. Connects via Bluetooth only, not compatible with ANT+.
- COMFORTABLE AND QUICK CLEANING: The fabric band is soft and breathable, more comfortable to wear than a chest strap. You can quickly clean the band by removing the sensor of COROS heart rate monitor chest strap ."COROS heart rate monitor armband is designed for measuring heart rate during sports and activities. It is not intended to aid in collecting heart rate data for daily tracking purposes.”
- EASY TO WEAR and FLEXIBLE FIT: The band of COROS heart rate monitor lays flat around your arm and locks in place with its textured surface. Set the perfect placement and tension on the elasticated band by sliding the buckle.
- ADVANCED SENSOR and PRECISE DATA: Housed in a tough yet sleek body and protected under a scratch-resistant cover, COROS Heart Rate Monitor's advanced sensor will deliver reliable and accurate heart rate data monitoring to track your workouts in distraction-free comfort.
- Precision Heart Rate Tracking: COOSPO H6M is equipped with an advanced HR sensor, our heart rate monitor chest strap delivers ultra-precise readings, ensuring you stay informed of your heart's every beat during intense training sessions or leisurely jogs. It's perfect for athletes seeking to optimize their training zones and monitor progress.
- Comfortable Wear: Crafted with soft, breathable materials and an adjustable strap, our heart rate monitor ensures a secure and comfortable fit for all body types and sizes. It's lightweight and barely noticeable, allowing you to focus solely on your workout without distractions.
- Seamless Connectivity: Effortlessly syncs with your favorite fitness apps and devices via Bluetooth or ANT+, H6M enabling seamless data transfer and real-time monitoring on your smartphone, smartwatch, or cycling computer.
- Multi-Sport Compatibility: Perfect for runners, cyclists, and fitness enthusiasts alike, our heart rate monitor chest strap is your versatile training companion. It accurately tracks your heart rate across various sports, helping you stay in your optimal training zone and push your limits.
- IP67 Waterproof & 400H Battery: Do Not Use For Swimming, Do Not Soake Into Water; IP67 Support Rainy Day Training & Workable In Sweat, 1-hour exercise per day, which can be used continuously for 400 hours with CR2032 changeable battery.
The Essential Buying Guide for Your Swimming Heart Rate Monitor
Tracking your heart rate while you swim helps you train smarter. It shows you how hard your body is working. Choosing the right monitor can feel tricky. This guide breaks down what you need to know to pick the best one for your laps.
Key Features to Look For
Not all heart rate monitors work the same way in water. Look for these important features:
- Optical vs. Chest Strap Technology: Most wrist-based optical sensors struggle to read accurately through water. Chest straps (ECG) are generally the gold standard for reliable swimming data. They sit directly on your chest, getting a clear signal.
- Water Resistance Rating: Ensure the device is rated for swimming. Look for ratings like 5 ATM or higher. This means it handles pressure from swimming and diving well.
- Onboard Memory: Since smartwatches often disconnect from your phone underwater, the monitor must save your heart rate data internally. You need to download this data later when you are near your phone.
- Compatibility: Check if the monitor connects easily with your existing swim watch, fitness app, or training platform (like Garmin Connect or Polar Flow).
- Battery Life: Long battery life means less charging and more swimming. Look for monitors that last several hours of continuous tracking.
Important Materials and Durability
Since water is involved, the materials matter for comfort and longevity.
Strap Comfort and Material
For chest straps, the strap material needs to be soft but durable. Silicone or flexible, water-resistant fabric straps work best. A strap that chafes when wet will ruin your workout.
Sensor Durability
The sensor unit itself must be fully sealed against water intrusion. High-quality plastic casings protect the electronics inside. Avoid monitors with visible seams where water could enter.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one monitor better than another?
Factors Improving Quality:
- Accurate ECG Technology: Chest straps using electrical signals (ECG) provide the highest accuracy, often matching medical-grade readings.
- Seamless Syncing: Monitors that quickly and automatically upload data after your swim offer a better user experience.
- Comfortable Fit: If the strap stays put and doesn’t slip during flip turns, the quality of your data collection improves greatly.
Factors Reducing Quality:
- Wrist-Based Optical Errors: Wrist monitors often fail to read heart rate correctly during repetitive arm movements like swimming strokes. This is a major quality reducer for swim tracking.
- Proprietary Charging Cables: If the charger is hard to replace or specific only to that brand, it lowers the overall convenience.
- Complex Setup: A monitor that requires difficult calibration before every swim session will frustrate users.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you use the monitor.
For Casual Swimmers:
If you swim for general fitness, a basic, reliable chest strap that connects to your existing waterproof watch might be enough. Focus on comfort and ease of use over advanced metrics.
For Competitive/Triathlon Training:
Serious athletes need precise data for pacing and interval training. Look for monitors that capture Heart Rate Variability (HRV) data in addition to standard BPM. These often integrate better with advanced sports watches.
Remember, even the best monitor needs proper placement. Always wet the electrodes on a chest strap before putting it on; this helps the electrical contact.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Swimming Heart Rate Monitors
Q: Can I use my regular running heart rate monitor for swimming?
A: Usually, no. Most wrist-based optical sensors do not work reliably underwater. You need a monitor specifically rated for water use, usually a chest strap.
Q: Why are chest straps better than wrist monitors for swimming?
A: Chest straps use ECG technology that reads electrical signals directly from your heart. Wrist monitors rely on light reflecting off your skin, which water interferes with significantly.
Q: What does “5 ATM” water resistance mean?
A: 5 ATM means the device can withstand pressure equivalent to being 50 meters underwater. This rating is sufficient for recreational swimming and showering.
Q: Do I need a special watch to use a heart rate strap?
A: Sometimes. Many straps transmit data via ANT+ or Bluetooth. If your strap uses ANT+, you might need a compatible sports watch that receives that signal underwater.
Q: What is onboard memory, and why is it important?
A: Onboard memory is space inside the monitor that stores your heart rate data while you swim. This is vital because Bluetooth signals usually stop working underwater.
Q: How often should I replace the strap?
A: Monitor the strap material regularly. If it starts stretching out, cracking, or becoming uncomfortable, replace it. Usually, this is every one to three years depending on usage.
Q: Is it hard to clean a swim heart rate monitor?
A: No, but rinsing is key. After every swim, rinse the strap and sensor gently with fresh water to remove chlorine or salt, and let it air dry fully.
Q: How do I know if the monitor is working correctly during my swim?
A: Since you cannot see the reading underwater, you rely on the device’s internal recording. Post-swim, check the downloaded data immediately to confirm the session was captured.
Q: Are there any batteries I need to change in the sensor?
A: Many high-end straps use replaceable coin cell batteries, while others are rechargeable. Check the product specifications before buying to know your maintenance commitment.
Q: Will sweat affect the monitor’s performance if I use it for open water swimming?
A: Sweat won’t usually affect the chest strap reading during the swim itself. However, always rinse the equipment after use, as dried sweat residue can degrade the strap material over time.