Speedo Shine is an update of the original Misfit Shine which is waterproof so safe to take into a swimming pool.
The difference with this new version is that the firmware has been updated with new algorithms so that it gives better data for swimmers.
Misfit made a wise move by partnering with Speedo to develop these algorithms.
Of course there are already quite a few watches designed for swimmers and there are also some fitness trackers such as the Moov Fitness Coach which include measuring strokes and lengths, but this new Shine could set a new standard.
It should be pointed out though, that some smartwatches can give better data but they do tend to be in a higher price bracket.
If you’re looking for a very reasonably priced fitness tracker which has been designed with swimmers in mind, then this could be it.
Speedo Shine Features
Accurate lap/length counting
Works for all strokes
Measures in and out of the pool
Syncs to Misfit app
Waterproof to 50 meters
Ultra-thin and stylish
Made with anodized aluminum
It has all the features of the original version, walking, running, cycling etc., but with the additional measurements for swimming, there’s a lot more to it.
The accuracy of the lap counting and the measuring of the distance of each stroke type has been officially validated by Speedo who carried out the in-pool testing.
All data is synced to the app to show laps, swim distance, calories burned and points earned. It also tracks walking, running, cycling and will measure sleep patterns.
In addition to the Misfit app, it will also work with Speedo Fit which is their personalized swim tracking and planning app.
This app can also find pools in your area, plus you can watch videos and get tips from Team Speedo athletes and coaches to help you to improve your swimming.
It’s easy to see why both companies teaming up together has been beneficial to both of them and more importantly, to swimmers looking for help from such a device.
As with the older version, the Speedo Shine is waterproof, tested to a depth of 50 meters and is made from corrosion free machined aluminum.
This metal which is pure silver in color, together with the fact that the device is ultra slim at only 8.6mm, gives it a very sleek and stylish look.
There’s no need to charge the battery as it will last around six months before it needs replacing.
The LED interface hasn’t changed, its novel but works well and there is also a watch function so it can be used to tell the time.
There’s also sleep tracking for both quality and duration which, as always, can help when assessing overall fitness and what, if any, changes need to be made to improve it.
Pros:
Misfit/Speedo collaboration
A cheaper alternative for swimmers
Waterproof to 50 meters
Improved stylish look
Monitors other activities
Sleep monitoring
Long battery life
Cons:
LED display still difficult to see in sunlight
No heart rate monitor
Strap could be a better design
Conclusion
We are pleased with this fitness tracker because our website is interested in any device which has swimmers in mind.
There isn’t too much available in the lower price range when it comes to swimming so this is a step in the right direction.
These two companies have had great foresight in deciding to work together to combine their expertise and produce an affordable update to the original version, but now with swimmers included.
Of course it isn’t perfect, there’s no heart rate monitor for example, unlike the Polar V800 which will continue to monitor your heart as you swim.
The downside to that is that the Polar is in the higher price bracket so it’s hard to make a comparison. While all strokes can be measured, distinguishing between them isn’t really possible. The main function is measuring length or laps and intensity.
This is enough to give an overview of your performance and how well you are doing or how you can improve.
The LED display, as previously, works well but it’s still difficult to see it in direct sunlight. That might not be too much of a problem for most people but it would be a welcome improvement if it were made.
The watch function is also welcome as it saves having to wear a regular watch at the same time. Having said that, most people carry their smartphone with them and can see the time on that!
It will be interesting to see if other manufacturers follow suit and make this idea of collaboration a new trend to make lower priced fitness trackers to be inclusive for swimmers in addition to their normal activities.
One thing is for sure, it has arrived with the Speedo Shine which was born from an already popular device and developed into something that swimmers will most likely welcome.
