Apple Watch Ultra 2 Review: Innovation Meets Aquatics
- Lee Stapleton
- Mar 12
- 3 min read
Introduction
For swimmers looking for a premium smartwatch that seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology, fitness tracking, and rugged durability, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a top contender. With enhanced water resistance, advanced swim metrics, and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem, it’s designed to take your swim training to the next level. But is it the right choice for serious swimmers? Let’s dive in! 🏊♂️
Design: Built for Performance and Comfort
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 boasts a titanium case, a stunning Always-On Retina display, and an action button for quick access to workouts. It’s built for endurance athletes, including swimmers, with a 100m water resistance rating and EN13319 certification for recreational diving. The larger, brighter display makes it easy to read swim metrics, even underwater.
Key Features
100m water resistance & certified for diving 🌊
Advanced swim tracking (laps, distance, stroke type, SWOLF score) 🏊♀️
Dual-frequency GPS for accurate open-water tracking 📍
Action Button for instant workout controls 🔘
Heart rate monitoring (wrist-based, even in water) ❤️
Depth gauge & water temperature sensor 🌡️
Up to 36-hour battery life (72 hours in low power mode) 🔋
Seamless integration with Apple Fitness+ and third-party swim apps 📲
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
Superb water resistance & swim tracking features ✅
Bright, easy-to-read display underwater ✅
Accurate GPS for open-water swimming ✅
Comfortable, rugged, and stylish design ✅
Longer battery life than standard Apple Watches ✅
❌ Cons:
High price compared to dedicated swim watches 💸
Lacks some advanced swim training tools found in Garmin models ⚠️
Requires iPhone for full functionality 📱
Should You Buy It?
✅ Buy it if:
You want a powerful smartwatch with premium swim features.
You swim in both pools and open water and need accurate tracking.
You want Apple’s seamless ecosystem integration.
❌ Skip it if:
You need a more affordable, swim-specific watch.
You prefer a Garmin or Suunto watch with more in-depth swim analytics.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Is the Apple Watch Ultra 2 good for swimming?
Yes, it offers advanced swim tracking, 100m water resistance, and open-water GPS, making it ideal for swimmers.
Does the Apple Watch Ultra 2 track open-water swims?
Absolutely! Its dual-frequency GPS ensures precise distance and route tracking in lakes, rivers, and oceans.
Can I wear it while diving?
Yes! It’s certified for recreational diving up to 40 meters and includes a depth gauge and temperature sensor.
Does it monitor heart rate while swimming?
Yes, the wrist-based heart rate sensor works in water, though accuracy may improve with a chest strap.
How long does the battery last?
Standard Mode: Up to 36 hours
Low Power Mode: Up to 72 hours
User Reviews: What Are Swimmers Saying?
⭐ 4.8/5 – Amazon Review: “Best smartwatch for swimming. The GPS is pinpoint accurate, and the display is crystal clear underwater.”
⭐ 4.7/5 – Triathlon Forum: “Incredible for open-water swims. Battery life is a game-changer compared to previous Apple Watches.”
⭐ 4.9/5 – Reddit Review: “Apple nailed it! Tracks everything I need, and the action button makes starting workouts a breeze.”
⭐ 4.8/5 – Apple Store User: “Great swim watch, but expensive. If you’re deep into Apple’s ecosystem, it’s unbeatable.”
Full Specs
Feature | Details |
Display | 1.92” Retina Always-On Display |
Battery Life | 36 Hours (Standard), 72 Hours (Low Power) |
Waterproof | 100m (Certified for Diving) |
Weight | Lightweight Titanium Design |
Swim Tracking | Stroke Count, SWOLF, Distance, Pace |
Smart Notifications | Yes |
Open-Water GPS | Yes (Dual-Frequency) |
Heart Rate Tracking | Yes (Wrist-Based) |
Similar Products: Alternatives to Consider
Swimming Smartwatch | Key Features | Price Range |
Garmin Fenix 8 | GPS, Advanced Swim Metrics, Multisport | 💸💸💸 |
Garmin Swim 2 | Pool & Open-Water Tracking, Budget-Friendly | 💸💸 |
Coros Apex Pro | Lightweight, GPS, Long Battery Life | 💸💸💸 |
Suunto 9 Peak Pro | Open-Water GPS, Long Battery Life | 💸💸💸 |
Apple Watch Ultra (Gen 1) | Slightly Less Battery, Still Excellent | 💸💸💸 |
Verdict: A Premium Swim Watch with Apple’s Signature Innovation
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is one of the best smartwatches for swimmers, combining top-tier swim tracking, GPS accuracy, and a rugged design. While it’s more expensive than dedicated swim watches, it offers unmatched integration with Apple’s ecosystem and advanced fitness tracking. If you’re a swimmer who also wants a full-featured smartwatch, this is a fantastic investment. 🏆
👉 Final Rating: 4.9/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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