Without a shadow of a doubt, as far as feature-rich and extremely rugged watches go, there are not many brands that can lay a glove on Garmin.
The US-based tech firm has been building GPS-enabled wearable devices for years, and its popularity worldwide continues to grow year after year.
Garmin has a wide selection of watches catering to different needs and budgets, and undoubtedly, its Vivoactive line is one of the most popular.
Many people looking for a sturdy watch jam-packed with useful features turn to the collection, and the Vivoactive 4 is one of the family’s latest additions.
As good as the model is, can it withstand immersion in water? Is Garmin Vivoactive 4 waterproof or you should turn your attention elsewhere?
Let’s find out.
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Is Garmin Vivoactive 4 Waterproof?
If we were to be super precise and brief, the answer to this question would be “no.”
But that doesn’t mean the Vivoactive 4 is a poorly-constructed watch – far from it. The fact is, many people mistakenly believe that a water-resistant watch is the same as a waterproof one.
There’s a big difference between the two terms, and it’s essential to understand it before you make a purchase.
As of now, a fully waterproof watch hasn’t been invented (and that doesn’t look like changing anytime soon!). The best that manufacturers can do is produce water-resistant models that can withstand short submersion periods.
Water resistance is a feature present in many watches, including all of Garmin’s models. Depending on the watch model, a Garmin watch can be equipped with a water resistance rating of:
- IP65 – can survive light spray or rain
- IP67 – can take splashes, rain or snow, and survive a dusty environment. It’s also fine to wear during a shower. The watch’s maximum capability is withstanding incidental exposure to water of up to 1m for a maximum length of 30 minutes
- 1ATM – withstands pressures equivalent to a depth of 10 meters, fine for splashes, rain or snow, showering
- 3ATM – withstands pressures equivalent to a depth of 30 meters, fine for splashes, rain or snow, showering, jumping into water
- 5ATM – withstands pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters, fine for splashes, rain or snow, showering, swimming, snorkeling
- 10ATM – withstands pressures equivalent to a depth of 100 meters, fine for splashes, rain or snow, showering, swimming, diving into water, snorkeling, high-speed water sports
So, which rating is offered by Garmin Vivoactive 4?
All Garmin Vivoactive 4 models come with a 5ATM (50m) water rating, which means the watch is a safe companion for showering, short swimming sessions or even snorkeling.
The device will have no problem taking splashes, rain, or snow, and it can even be worn in the shower.
However, it’s worth noting that water resistance is not a permanent feature – over time, gaskets and seals may degrade, which will lead to a loss of water resistance.
To ensure your watch maintains its 5ATM rating, it’s advisable to have it checked (and serviced if needed) by an authorized Garmin dealer every 12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that we have a clear understanding of what the Vivoactive 4’s water resistance capabilities are, let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions related to the subject.
How waterproof is the Vivoactive 4?
The Vivoactive 4 has a water resistance rating of 5ATM, which means it can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters.
This makes it fine for short swimming sessions or even snorkeling. The device will have no problem taking splashes, rain, or snow, and it can even be worn in the shower.
Can I shower with my Garmin Vivoactive 4?
Yes, you can. The Vivoactive 4 has a water resistance rating of 5ATM, which means it won’t be damaged by water pressure equivalent to a depth of 50 meters. This makes it fine for taking showers.
Is Vivoactive 4/4S waterproof?
Vivoactive 4S is the smaller version of the Vivoactive 4, and it shares the same water resistance rating. This means it’s also fine for taking showers and swimming.
Can you shower with a Garmin watch?
Of course, this will differ from one model to the next, but many Garmin watches come with a water resistance rating that makes them fine for taking showers.
Can I wear my Garmin in the pool?
The same applies to pools – it will depend on the model, but many Garmin watches come with a water resistance rating that makes them fine for swimming in shallow waters.
Can Vivoactive 4 go in ocean?
Ocean waters are much saltier, deeper, and more turbulent than pools, so it’s generally not advisable to take your Vivoactive 4, or any other watch water-resistant to 50m, into the ocean.
Can I wear my Garmin Vivoactive 4s in the sea?
The same advice applies to the Vivoactive 4s – it’s generally not advisable to take your watch into the sea, as the salt water, depth, and turbulence can all lead to damage.
If you’re planning on doing any swimming in the sea, it’s best to invest in a watch with a higher water resistance rating, such as 10ATM. A dive watch would be a good idea.
What is the battery life of Vivoactive 4?
Garmin watches offer really solid battery performance for a “smarty” watch. The Vivoactive 4 is no different as it offers up to 8 days in the standard smartwatch mode.
