What Are the Best Watches for Sauna in 2023?

There are smartwatch models that can withstand steam saunas. Much depends on the waterproofing rating, but it’s also a good idea to check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Also, consider temperature changes in the Sauna.

What to look for in a sauna watch?

A sauna is a room or building designed to experience thermal sessions. Typically, the temperature in a sauna is around 80-90 °C, and steam is generated by pouring water over hot stones.

Since you have steam, water, and heat, you must check two things. These are the waterproof rating and operating temperature rating.

Waterproof rating

Watches are typically rated for ATM ratings or depth ratings in meters. ATM is the atmospheric pressure that tells how effectively a device holds the tension to a certain depth.

At sea level, the average atmospheric pressure is about 1 bar. When submerged, the pressure increases by approximately 1 bar per 10 meters. So a 3atm rating means 30m water resistance.

You should not wear your smart watch in a sauna where the instructions state that it is splashproof and hand washable. Instructions should say that swimming is okay so you feel comfortable taking it to the Sauna.

Operating temperature rating

Devices are usually rated for an operating temperature range in the device documentation. For example, Garmin Vivoactive 3 manuals state an operating temperature of -20º to 50ºC (-4º to 122ºF).

Even if the Sauna is hotter than the stated maximum operating temperature, you shouldn’t worry too much about that. You can wear the smartwatch in temperatures below –20ºC during the winter without any problems. Your wrist keeps your device warmer than the outside air. Likewise, your wrist will keep your device cooler in a hot sauna.

Can I wear my Fitbit in a sauna?

According to the official Fitbit website, most Fitbit products operate between 14° and 113°F and are water resistant to 50 meters. You can usually use the Fitbit in a steam room or infrared Sauna, but you can’t use it in a regular sauna because the temperature of 177° F is too high.

Can I wear Garmin in a sauna?

Some Garmin smartwatches have a maximum operating temperature of 122ºF and a water resistance rating of 5 ATM (atmospheric pressure), making them safe to use in saunas and steam rooms.

Here are the best Garmin watches for the Sauna:

The Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music has a waterproof rating and a maximum operating temperature suitable for steam rooms and some infrared saunas. The warranty does not cover damage caused by sauna use, but no damage has been reported after use in a traditional sauna.

The Garmin Fenix 6 Pro has a temperature indicator that does not exceed our conventional Sauna’s maximum operating temperature during testing.

Which Fitbit watch should I wear?

To best watches for the Sauna by Fitbit:

The Fitbit Versa and Charge are best for sauna use but are not recommended for traditional sauna use.

Also read: Can You Wear Apple Watch in Sauna?

How do I know which watch to wear in the sauna room?

Many people wear their watches all day, and Sauna wear concerns many active users. To preserve and operate the device correctly, you must follow the recommended limits for each model.

You should wear your watches in a sauna when the average temperature is below 113°F. Excessive heat, higher altitudes, and abundant moisture can damage electronic devices. Some smartwatch models are water resistant, and while some can withstand temperatures of 140° F, none can withstand the 177° F heat of a traditional sauna.

Other things to consider:

Temperature range and altitude capability

Each watch model has specifications to follow while wearing it and what the company calls “environmental requirements.”

You can check the operating temperature range and maximum operating altitude according to the environmental requirements on the website. Depending on the model, the maximum temperature is 113°F or 140°F, and the maximum working height is 28,000 feet.

Degree of water resistance

As with temperature and altitude limitations, Fitbit models all have different levels of water resistance to function correctly. Some are safe for swimming and exposure to high heat, while others are especially recommended to avoid saunas and steam rooms entirely.

Materials and care

The material used in some watches is a combination of silicone, metal, polyester, and plastic. Take care of your watch correctly, as the Sauna’s temperature may increase your allergic reaction to these substances.