The Fitbit Versa 4 smartwatch is the successor to the Versa 3, but is the smartwatch waterproof, and can it be worn while swimming? The Versa 4 was launched alongside the Sense 2, and is the more affordable model among the two. Its lower price is due to a lack of key features such as ECG for detecting Atrial fibrillation (AFib), an electrodermal activity (EDA) sensor for all-day stress tracking, and a skin temperature sensor.
The average smartwatch has some degree of water resistance, although the levels can vary from brand to brand and even among models of the same brand. According to the Versa 4's official specifications, the watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters. This means it will survive immersion in water that's up to 50 meters deep. In addition, Fitbit states that this level of water resistance applies “to the pool, shower, and more”.
The Versa 4 Can Be Used While Swimming
Fitbit says the Versa 4 can track more than 40 exercise modes, which is double that of the previous generation. Fitbit says on a page that its smartwatches which are water-resistant up to 50 meters are also designed to be swimproof. Additionally, swimming is one of the ed exercise modes on the smartwatch.
However, an important detail s should note is that not all straps of the Versa 4 are designed for swimming. The default strap that ships with the Versa 4 is called the Classic band which Fitbit says is “made of a flexible material similar to that used in many sports watches.” While this is sweatproof and swimproof, some of the other replacement straps sold by Fitbit are not. This includes all of its leather bands which are neither sweat-resistant nor water-resistant, and the Hook & Loop bands which are only sweat-resistant, among others. Therefore, s who intend to purchase an additional band should check if it can be used for swimming or high-intensity workouts before exposing it to water.
Furthermore, while the Versa 4 is water-resistant up to 50 meters, water resistance can diminish over time and can also be impacted by drops, and exposure to chemicals from soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellents, perfumes, and lotions. Fitbit also says that exposing the watch to high-velocity water during water sports can also negatively impact the water resistance of the Versa 4.
Does The Fitbit Versa 4 Have Water Lock?
Some Fitbit trackers, including the Charge 5, Inspire 2, Inspire 3, Luxe, and Ace 3 have a dedicated water lock mode. When enabled, this mode prevents the screen from activating when it comes in with water, such as while swimming or showering. However, the Versa 4 doesn't have a dedicated water lock mode.
While this might cause the screen to get activated underwater, it won't be a problem while swimming, provided s start a swim in the Exercise app. Activating this mode automatically enables water lock. Once s end the swim, water lock will be disabled. It's worth noting that Fitbit only recommends swimming in fresh water. If s swim in salt water, they should clean their Versa 4 with fresh water and dry it with a lint-free cloth.