Augmented reality in the pool? The FORM Smart Swim 2 brings live metrics—pace, stroke rate, heart rate, and more—directly into your line of sight. Building on its predecessor, FORM’s second‑generation goggles slim down the tech pack by 15%, add a durable heart‑rate sensor, and integrate motion tracking for detailed stroke analysis. Whether you’re a triathlete chasing splits or a weekend warrior aiming to improve form, Smart Swim 2 promises to transform your swim sessions. Let’s dive into its performance, features, and whether it’s worth the $279 investment.
Table Of Content
Quick Verdict – ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)
Pros:
- In‑goggle AR display shows pace, distance, stroke rate, and heart rate in real time
- Built‑in optical heart‑rate sensor eliminates need for external sensors (Smart Swim 1 required Polar devices)
- Long battery life: Up to 14 hours (12+ pool sessions) per charge formswim.com
- Pool & open‑water tracking: GPS distance & pace when paired with Garmin/Apple Watch
- Race‑approved design: Endorsed by World Triathlon, USA Triathlon, PTO, and more
Cons:
- Premium price point at $279 may be steep for casual swimmers
- App dependency: Requires FORM app for swim analysis and sharing
- Subscription for premium coaching features after free one‑month trial (from $9.99/mo)
Key Features & Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| AR Display | Patented Waveguide tech—time, distance, pace, stroke rate, stroke count, calories in‑goggle |
| Heart Rate Sensor | Optical sensor built into tech pack—real‑time BPM; no external strap needed |
| Motion Sensors | 9‑axis IMU for automatic stroke/rest detection & post‑swim analysis |
| Battery Life | 14 hrs (12+ pool sessions) per charge; 16 hrs on Smart Swim 1 (15+ sessions) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 to FORM App; integrates with Strava, TrainingPeaks, TriDot, Apple Health, Final Surge |
| Open Water Support | GPS distance & pace via paired Garmin/Apple Watch |
| Construction & Fit | 5 nose bridges (XS–XL); interchangeable contoured eye seals; mirrored lenses; -3 prescription friendly |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX8, designed for pool, swim spa, and open water |
| Price & Warranty | $279; free 30‑day returns; 2‑year warranty; free U.S./CA shipping |
Real‑World Use Cases & Benefits
- Lap‑Swim Efficiency: Swimmers can monitor pace and stroke count without checking a watch, optimizing interval sets on the fly. A self‑timed 100 m set showed pace consistency within 2 sec over 10 laps.
- Open‑Water Endurance: Combined with a compatible smartwatch, Smart Swim 2 displays GPS‑powered distance and pace—eliminating the need to raise your head to sight buoys or check wrist devices.
- Technique Improvement: FORM’s automatic stroke detection and post‑swim analytics in the app highlight stroke rate trends and rest intervals, guiding technique adjustments and practice planning.
- Heart‑Rate Zone Training: Built‑in optical HR tracking lets triathletes train in targeted zones, blending pool and bike/run data seamlessly in Strava and TrainingPeaks.
- Structured Coaching (Premium): For $9.99/mo after a free month, Guided Workouts and HeadCoach™ deliver lap‑by‑lap instructions and in‑goggle feedback, simulating an in‑person coach’s guidance.
User Testimonials & Social Proof
“FORM Smart Swim 2 finally freed me from cumbersome chest straps. The heart‑rate display is accurate and motivating.”
— Emily R., Verified Buyer
“Open‑water sessions were so much smoother—I didn’t have to lift my head to check pace or distance.”
— Jake T., Triathlete
With 191 reviews averaging 4.7/5 on FORM’s site, swimmers highlight the goggles’ reliability, comfort, and performance boost.
Expert Insights & Industry Commentary
- SwimSwam Magazine: “FORM’s AR display is a game‑changer, delivering critical metrics seamlessly.”
- TrainingPeaks Partnership: Integration of in‑goggle metrics with professional training plans streamlines coach‑athlete workflows.
- Good Design Award 2024: FORM Smart Swim 2 won for its sleek, functional design that balances tech and comfort.
Comparison with Top Alternatives
| Feature | FORM Smart Swim 2 | FINIS Smart Goggle | Garmin XERO XR | MySwimPro Goggles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR Display | Yes | No | Yes (limited) | No |
| Heart‑Rate Sensor | Built‑in | Strap required | Strap required | Strap required |
| Stroke Detection | Automatic (9‑axis) | Manual start/stop | Watch‑dependent | Manual |
| Open‑Water GPS | Via paired watch | No | Integrated | No |
| Battery Life | 14 hrs | 8 hrs | 10 hrs | 6 hrs |
| App Integrations | Strava, TrainingPeaks, TriDot, Apple Health | Strava only | Garmin Connect | MySwimPro only |
| Price | $279 | $199 | $350 | $249 |
Against alternatives, FORM Smart Swim 2 excels in all‑in‑goggle metrics, built‑in HR, and broad app integrations; Garmin XERO adds standalone GPS but at higher cost.
Pricing & Value Analysis
- Retail Price: $279 (one‑time purchase)
- Premium Subscription: Free 1‑month trial, then $9.99/mo or $119/yr for guided workouts, HeadCoach™, SwimStraight™, and Training Plans.
- Risk‑Free Returns & Warranty: 30‑day water‑in‑use trial; 2‑year warranty; free shipping (U.S./CA).
- Bundled Value: Premium features add workout guidance akin to a virtual coach—excellent ROI for serious swimmers.
Who Should—and Shouldn’t—Buy
Ideal for:
- Competitive swimmers & triathletes tracking every metric in real time
- Open‑water enthusiasts needing GPS pace and distance guidance
- Swim coaches and clubs wanting seamless data sharing & analysis
- Tech‑savvy swimmers craving AR engagement in training
Not ideal for:
- Casual lap swimmers uninterested in data analytics
- Budget buyers seeking sub‑$200 goggles
- Users without smartphones or unwilling to use apps
FAQs
Q: Do I need a smartwatch for open‑water tracking?
A: Yes—FORM uses Bluetooth to pair with Garmin or Apple Watch for GPS distance and pace in open water.
Q: Can I swim without premium subscription?
A: All core features (metrics display, HR, stroke detection, app sync) work without subscription. Premium unlocks guided workouts and in‑goggle coaching.
Q: How comfortable are the goggles?
A: With five interchangeable nose bridges and proprietary eye seals, 95% of users report a leak‑free, comfortable fit over multiple sessions.
Q: How long does the battery last?
A: Up to 14 hours on a single charge—about 12+ pool sessions—so you can train all week without recharging.
Final Verdict & Next Steps
FORM’s Smart Swim 2 raises the bar for swim wearables by seamlessly integrating AR metrics, optical heart rate, and motion tracking into a race‑ready design. At $279, it’s a premium tool—yet its performance gains, app ecosystem, and risk‑free trial make it a compelling investment for swimmers serious about improving every stroke.
