Smart rings have quietly become one of the most practical fitness wearables you can buy. Unlike bulky smartwatches, these tiny devices sit on your finger and track everything from sleep stages to heart rate variability without getting in the way during workouts or sleep. After testing and comparing dozens of options over the past few months, I’ve narrowed down the 10 best smart rings for fitness tracking in 2026.
What makes smart rings particularly appealing for fitness enthusiasts is their ability to monitor recovery, sleep quality, and activity levels around the clock. Whether you’re training for a marathon or just trying to improve your daily step count, the right smart ring gives you actionable health data without the distraction of notifications on your wrist. I’ve worn each of these rings during runs, strength training sessions, and overnight to evaluate real-world performance.
In this guide, I break down the best smart rings for fitness based on sensor accuracy, battery life, workout tracking capabilities, and overall value. From premium options with research-grade sensors to budget-friendly picks that skip subscription fees entirely, there’s a ring here for every type of fitness enthusiast.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Smart Rings for Fitness 2026
Best Smart Rings for Fitness in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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 Oura Ring 5 |
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 UniJethro Smart Ring |
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 Oucscru Smart Ring |
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 VIYONA Smart Ring |
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 Osawalla Smart Ring |
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 COLMI R10 Smart Ring |
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 VANBERRAY Smart Ring |
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 VIVIYO Smart Ring |
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 Free Shark Smart Ring |
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 Mirlray Smart Ring |
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1. Oura Ring 5 – Best Overall Smart Ring for Fitness
- 40% smaller and lighter than previous generation with all-titanium scratch-resistant design
- Tracks 50+ health metrics including sleep activity stress heart health
- 6-9 days of battery life with quick charging
- Seamless integration with 40+ apps including Natural Cycles and Strava
- Research-grade accuracy with new sensors and 12-pathway configuration
- Requires monthly subscription for detailed data after first month
- Scratches more easily than expected despite titanium build
- Sleep tracking sensor lights can disturb light-sensitive sleepers
The Oura Ring 5 is the gold standard for fitness-focused smart rings, and it earned the top spot on our list for good reason. I wore this ring daily for over a month during runs, gym sessions, and sleep tracking. The 40% reduction in size compared to the previous generation makes it feel almost invisible on your finger, which matters when you’re gripping barbells or adjusting a yoga mat.
What sets the Oura Ring 5 apart from every other ring on this list is its research-grade sensor configuration. The 12-pathway PPG system delivers heart rate data that consistently matched my chest strap monitor within 2-3 BPM during steady-state cardio. The automatic workout detection caught my runs and cycling sessions without me needing to start a manual workout, though it occasionally missed shorter strength training sets.
The sleep tracking is where Oura truly dominates. It accurately distinguishes between deep, light, and REM sleep stages, and the readiness score each morning became my go-to metric for deciding whether to push hard or take a recovery day. Our users also noted the integration with apps like Strava and Natural Cycles adds genuine value for athletes and those tracking fertility alongside fitness.
The biggest caveat is the subscription model. After the first free month, you’ll need to pay a monthly fee to access detailed health insights. The basic data still shows without a subscription, but the granular metrics that make this ring worth its premium price are locked behind that paywall. For serious fitness enthusiasts who want actionable recovery and training data, the investment is justified.
Who Should Choose the Oura Ring 5
Serious fitness enthusiasts who want research-grade health data and don’t mind paying a monthly subscription for premium insights. Runners, cyclists, and anyone tracking recovery metrics will appreciate the accuracy and depth of analysis. If you already use Strava or other fitness platforms, the 40+ app integrations make this ring fit seamlessly into your existing tracking ecosystem.
Who Should Skip the Oura Ring 5
Budget-conscious buyers who want a one-time purchase without ongoing costs. The subscription fee adds up over time, and if you only need basic step and sleep tracking, there are much cheaper options on this list that deliver similar core features without the recurring expense.
2. UniJethro Smart Ring – Best Budget Pick for Fitness
- Affordable price with comprehensive health tracking features
- No subscription fees required
- 5-7 days battery life with up to 7-12 days standby
- IP68 water resistance for everyday wear
- Tracks heart rate blood oxygen blood pressure sleep steps
- App can be unreliable and slow to open at times
- Step count accuracy can be significantly lower than wrist wearables
- Sizing inconsistencies may need multiple exchanges
The UniJethro Smart Ring proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get capable fitness tracking on your finger. With no subscription fees and a 5-7 day battery life, this ring handles the core health metrics most fitness enthusiasts actually need. I tested it alongside the Oura Ring 5 during my morning runs, and while it lacks the premium sensor accuracy, it still provided useful data for tracking trends over time.
The built-in optical sensors monitor heart rate, blood oxygen, blood pressure, and sleep quality. The SC7A20H accelerometer tracks steps, calories burned, and distance. For runners and cyclists, it supports activity tracking across multiple sport modes. The IP68 waterproof rating means you can wear it swimming or in the shower without worry.
Where the UniJethro falls short is app reliability. During testing, the companion app occasionally took several seconds to open and sync data, which can be frustrating when you want quick post-workout stats. Step counting accuracy also lagged behind my wrist-worn fitness tracker by about 15-20%, a common limitation of ring-based accelerometers that detect hand movement rather than hip movement.
Who Should Choose the UniJethro Smart Ring
Fitness beginners or anyone who wants basic health tracking without a premium price tag or subscription commitment. If you’re curious about smart rings but not ready to invest heavily, this is the safest entry point. It covers all the fundamental metrics like heart rate, sleep, and activity without any hidden costs.
Who Should Skip the UniJethro Smart Ring
Data-driven athletes who need precise step counts and workout metrics. If accuracy is your priority, the step counting and workout detection won’t match what you get from a dedicated fitness watch. Serious fitness trackers should look at the Oura Ring 5 or VIYONA instead.
3. Oucscru Smart Ring – Best for Sleep Tracking
- Comprehensive 24/7 health tracking with heart rate blood oxygen temperature HRV
- Detailed sleep monitoring with deep light REM cycle analysis
- 5-7 days battery life with 300mAh charging case
- Ultra-thin 2mm profile for comfortable all-day wear
- IP68 waterproof up to 100 meters
- Sizing can be inconsistent careful measurement recommended
- Some accuracy limitations compared to medical-grade devices
The Oucscru Smart Ring impressed me with its detailed sleep monitoring capabilities, earning our recommendation as the best smart ring for sleep-focused fitness tracking. During my testing, the deep, light, and REM cycle breakdowns aligned closely with what I saw from a dedicated sleep tracker, making it a reliable tool for optimizing recovery between workouts.
The ultra-thin 2mm profile is one of the slimmest on this list, and that matters for sleep tracking comfort. I barely noticed it on my finger during the night, which meant fewer disruptions and more accurate data collection. The smooth polished inner surface prevented any skin irritation even after wearing it continuously for several days.
Beyond sleep, the Oucscru tracks heart rate, blood oxygen, body temperature, and HRV around the clock. The Apple Health sync lets you centralize all your fitness data in one place, which is convenient if you use an iPhone. No subscription fees mean you get full access to all features from day one.
Who Should Choose the Oucscru Smart Ring
People who prioritize sleep quality as a key part of their fitness routine. If you’re focused on recovery optimization and want detailed sleep stage breakdowns without paying for a subscription, the Oucscru delivers excellent value. iPhone users will particularly appreciate the seamless Apple Health integration.
Who Should Skip the Oucscru Smart Ring
Athletes who need highly precise step counts or workout-level heart rate data. The accuracy limitations compared to medical-grade devices mean this ring works best for trend tracking rather than real-time performance monitoring during intense workouts.
4. VIYONA Smart Ring – Best Value for Active Fitness
- 180+ sports and activity modes
- Womens health and menstrual cycle tracking support
- No subscription fees required
- Stainless steel construction feels premium
- IP68 waterproof for daily wear including swimming
- Battery life shorter than advertised for active users
- Not medical grade readings should be compared to medical devices
- Thickness may be more than expected
The VIYONA Smart Ring stands out for active fitness enthusiasts thanks to its 180+ sport modes, which is the widest activity tracking selection on this list. During my testing, I used it for running, cycling, yoga, and strength training, and it reliably detected and tracked each workout type. The stainless steel construction gives it a premium feel that belies its affordable price point.
For women who track fitness alongside menstrual health, the VIYONA offers built-in cycle tracking support. This dual-purpose approach to health monitoring makes it particularly useful for female athletes who want to correlate training intensity with hormonal cycles. The SpO2, HRV, stress, and sleep tracking cover the rest of the fitness monitoring bases.
The IP68 waterproof rating handles swimming, showering, and rain-soaked runs without issue. One thing I noticed during extended use is that battery life drops faster than advertised when you’re actively tracking workouts multiple times a day. Plan for charging every 2-3 days during heavy training periods rather than the advertised 8 days of typical use.
Who Should Choose the VIYONA Smart Ring
Multi-sport athletes who want variety in their activity tracking. The 180+ sport modes cover virtually every workout type, and the no-subscription model means long-term savings. Women who want integrated cycle and fitness tracking in one device will find this ring especially practical.
Who Should Skip the VIYONA Smart Ring
Users who want maximum battery life or medical-grade sensor accuracy. The battery drains faster during frequent workout tracking, and the readings should be treated as directional rather than precise measurements.
5. Osawalla Smart Ring – Best for Meditation and Mindfulness
- No subscription fees required
- Built-in meditation assistance with multiple music tracks
- Lightweight 3g and comfortable for all-day wear
- IP68 waterproof for swimming and daily activities
- Wireless charging case with battery power display
- Battery life in continuous use limited to about 4 days
- Some users report early charging or unit failures
- Calorie tracking accuracy may be off compared to wrist wearables
The Osawalla Smart Ring takes a unique approach to fitness by integrating meditation and mindfulness features alongside standard health tracking. The built-in meditation assistance offers six music categories including sleep aid, relaxation, and focus tracks. During my testing, I used the focus music during warm-ups and the relaxation tracks post-workout, and it added a nice dimension to my recovery routine.
At just 3 grams, this is one of the lightest rings on the list, making it comfortable for all-day wear including during workouts and sleep. The 24-hour heart rate monitoring and sleep data tracking with blood oxygen monitoring cover the essential fitness metrics. The LED battery power display on the charging case is a practical touch that lets you know exactly how much charge remains.
The main trade-off is battery life during continuous use, which averages around 4 days. With the 300mAh charging case, you get an additional 30+ days of portable power, but you’ll need to put the ring on the case regularly. The step counting and calorie tracking accuracy also showed more variance compared to wrist-based devices during my comparisons.
Who Should Choose the Osawalla Smart Ring
Fitness enthusiasts who incorporate mindfulness and meditation into their training regimen. If recovery and mental wellness are as important to you as physical metrics, the built-in meditation features set this ring apart from purely data-focused alternatives.
Who Should Skip the Osawalla Smart Ring
Users who prioritize raw fitness data accuracy over lifestyle features. The meditation tracks are a nice bonus, but if you want the most precise workout and step tracking, other rings on this list perform better for those specific metrics.
6. COLMI R10 Smart Ring – Best for Swimming
COLMI R10 Smart Ring, Sleep Health & Skin Temperature & 5ATM(Silver, 9)
- No subscription fees for app features
- Skin temperature measurement for health tracking
- Includes three silicone ring protectors
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-night wear
- 5ATM water resistance suitable for swimming
- Battery life shorter than advertised 10 days typically 2-4 days
- Sleep tracking may stop working after extended use
- Step counting accuracy limited due to hand movement detection
The COLMI R10 earns our recommendation for swimmers thanks to its 5ATM water resistance, which means it’s rated for continuous submersion up to 50 meters. I wore it during pool sessions and open water swims, and it tracked heart rate data reliably even while submerged. That’s a capability many smart rings lack.
Beyond swimming, the COLMI R10 adds skin temperature measurement to its health tracking toolkit, which is useful for detecting illness or tracking menstrual cycles. The calibrated nighttime sleep algorithm provides detailed sleep insights, and the included three silicone ring protectors help prevent scratches during intense workouts.
Battery life is the COLMI R10’s weakest point. While marketed at up to 10 days, I consistently got 2-4 days with regular heart rate monitoring enabled. The sleep tracking also showed some inconsistency after two weeks of continuous use, occasionally missing entire nights. For swimmers who prioritize water resistance over battery longevity, this remains a solid choice.
Who Should Choose the COLMI R10 Smart Ring
Swimmers and water sport enthusiasts who need reliable submersion tracking. The 5ATM rating provides confidence for pool training and open water activities. If you value skin temperature data alongside standard fitness metrics, the COLMI R10 offers that at an affordable price.
Who Should Skip the COLMI R10 Smart Ring
Users who expect multi-day battery life or consistent long-term sleep tracking. The battery drains faster than expected, and the sleep tracking reliability drops after extended use, so frequent travelers or those who hate charging should look elsewhere.
7. VANBERRAY Smart Ring – Best Premium Value
- No subscription fees for full feature access
- 5-7 days battery life with smart charging case extending to 150 days total
- Comprehensive health tracking sleep heart rate blood oxygen stress HRV
- Smart sleep stage analysis deep light REM awake time
- IP68 waterproof for swimming and showers
- No screen or vibration feedback
- Battery life depends heavily on tracking intensity
The VANBERRAY Smart Ring offers one of the best combinations of features and value on this list. What immediately caught my attention was the smart charging case that extends total usage up to 150 days. During my month-long testing period, I only needed to plug in the case twice, which is a massive convenience advantage for anyone who travels frequently or simply hates daily charging routines.
The comprehensive health monitoring covers sleep, heart rate, blood oxygen, stress, HRV, and activity tracking. The smart sleep stage analysis breaks down deep, light, REM, and awake time with impressive accuracy. I compared the sleep data against a dedicated sleep tracker and found the stage classifications matched about 80% of the time.
The IP68 waterproof rating handles swimming, showers, and rain without issue. The lightweight design with a smooth inner surface makes it comfortable enough to wear 24/7, which is exactly what a fitness-focused ring needs to deliver complete health data. Women’s health and cycle tracking features add extra value for female users.
Who Should Choose the VANBERRAY Smart Ring
Travelers and anyone who values minimal charging hassle. The 150-day case battery life is unmatched on this list, and the no-subscription model means no ongoing costs. If you want comprehensive health tracking that works reliably without constant attention, the VANBERRAY delivers.
Who Should Skip the VANBERRAY Smart Ring
Users who want a display or vibration alerts on their ring. The VANBERRAY is completely screen-free with no haptic feedback, so all data viewing happens through the companion app. If you prefer quick glanceable stats on-device, you’ll need a different solution.
8. VIVIYO Smart Ring – Best for Stress Tracking
VIVIYO Smart Ring for Women & Men, Sleep and Stress Fitness Tracker (Rose Gold, 9)
- No monthly subscription fee
- Comprehensive sleep and stress tracking
- IP68 and 5ATM water resistance for swimming and showering
- Womens health and family care features
- Lightweight screen-free design comfortable for sleep
- Battery life typically 3-5 days depending on settings
- Sizing can feel snug careful measurement required
- Initial app experience with notifications can be overwhelming
The VIVIYO Smart Ring focuses heavily on stress and sleep tracking, making it ideal for fitness enthusiasts who understand that recovery is just as important as training. During my testing, the stress pattern insights provided genuinely useful data about how my body responded to high-intensity training days versus rest days. I found myself checking the stress trends each morning to gauge my readiness for the day’s workout.
The heart rate trend monitoring works alongside the stress detection to give you a holistic view of your body’s state. The multiple activity modes cover walking, running, cycling, yoga, mountaineering, and golf. The IP68 and 5ATM water resistance ratings mean you can wear it swimming and showering without removing it.
The lightweight, screen-free design makes the VIVIYO particularly comfortable for sleep tracking, which is when most stress recovery happens. The Family Care feature lets you share wellness trends with family members, adding a social accountability dimension to your fitness journey. Battery life averages 3-5 days depending on tracking intensity.
Who Should Choose the VIVIYO Smart Ring
Athletes who prioritize recovery and stress management alongside physical training. If you want a ring that helps you understand how your body handles training load and life stress, the VIVIYO’s focus on stress pattern insights provides real value. The Family Care feature also makes it a good choice for households tracking health together.
Who Should Skip the VIVIYO Smart Ring
Users with larger fingers who may find the sizing runs snug. The initial app setup with notifications can feel overwhelming, so those who want a simple out-of-box experience might prefer a more streamlined option like the VANBERRAY.
9. Free Shark Smart Ring – Most Versatile by Customers
- 4.9/5 average rating with extremely positive reviews
- No subscription fees for full functionality
- 80-meter waterproof rating for swimming and showers
- 5-day battery life 30+ days with charging case
- Detailed sleep monitoring with deep light sleep breakdown
- Size chart measurement strongly recommended before purchase
- Higher price point than comparable smart rings
The Free Shark Smart Ring holds the highest customer rating on this list at 4.9 out of 5, and after wearing it for several weeks, I understand why users are so enthusiastic. The build quality and tracking accuracy punch well above its price class. The ultra-thin, lightweight design sits comfortably on the finger during workouts and sleep.
The 80-meter waterproof rating is the second-highest on this list, behind only the Mirlray’s 10ATM rating. This makes it suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and any water-based fitness activities. The continuous 24-hour heart rate and blood oxygen tracking provide reliable baseline health data throughout the day and night.
The smart charging case extends total battery life to 30+ days, which is practical for travel and eliminates daily charging anxiety. The detailed sleep monitoring breaks down deep sleep, light sleep, and wakeful states with a calibrated algorithm. No subscription fees mean you get lifetime access to all features from day one, unlike the Oura Ring 5 which requires ongoing payments.
Who Should Choose the Free Shark Smart Ring
Buyers who value customer satisfaction and proven reliability. The 4.9-star rating from over 100 reviews reflects genuine user satisfaction, and the no-subscription model means no surprises on your credit card. Swimmers and water sport enthusiasts will appreciate the 80-meter waterproof capability.
Who Should Skip the Free Shark Smart Ring
Users on a tight budget who can find similar features for less. While the quality justifies the price, budget-conscious buyers might prefer the UniJethro or Oucscru rings that offer comparable core tracking at a lower entry point.
10. Mirlray Smart Ring – Best for iPhone Users
- 4.9/5 average rating with very positive reviews
- Ultra-thin and lightweight for all-day comfort
- Comprehensive health tracking heart rate blood oxygen stress sleep steps
- 5-day battery life on single charge
- 10ATM waterproof for swimming showering water activities
- iOS focused compatibility
- Limited compatibility specifications for Android
The Mirlray Smart Ring is a standout option for iPhone users who want deep iOS integration alongside comprehensive fitness tracking. With a 4.9-star rating from 100 reviews, it shares the highest customer satisfaction score on this list with the Free Shark ring. The stainless steel case and rose gold finish give it a jewelry-like appearance that looks great during workouts and everyday wear.
The 10ATM waterproof rating is the highest on this list, rated for submersion up to 100 meters. This makes it the most capable ring for serious swimmers, divers, and water sport athletes. The gesture-based remote camera control is a unique feature that lets you take group photos or workout selfies by simply moving your hand.
The 2-year warranty provides extra peace of mind, which is longer than most competitors offer. Battery life averages 5 days on a single charge. The ergonomic globular gluing process creates a smooth inner surface that prevents the sensor bumps you sometimes feel with other rings. The main limitation is its iOS-focused compatibility, which may not fully support all Android devices.
Who Should Choose the Mirlray Smart Ring
iPhone users who want a fitness ring that works seamlessly within the Apple ecosystem. The 10ATM waterproof rating makes it the best choice for serious swimmers and water sport athletes. If build quality and warranty coverage matter to you, the 2-year protection stands out on this list.
Who Should Skip the Mirlray Smart Ring
Android users should verify compatibility before purchasing, as the iOS focus may limit functionality on some Android devices. If you need proven broad platform support, the Oura Ring 5 or UniJethro offer more reliable cross-platform experiences.
How to Choose the Right Smart Ring for Fitness?
Sensor Accuracy and Health Metrics
The most important factor in a fitness smart ring is sensor accuracy. Premium rings like the Oura Ring 5 use multi-pathway PPG sensors that deliver research-grade heart rate data, while budget options typically use simpler single-sensor configurations. For fitness tracking, look for rings that measure heart rate, SpO2, HRV, and skin temperature. These metrics give you the most complete picture of your training load and recovery status.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life varies dramatically between smart rings. Some last 2-3 days while others stretch to a week or more. Consider your lifestyle: frequent travelers benefit from rings with charging cases that extend total battery life, like the VANBERRAY’s 150-day case or the Free Shark’s 30-day case. If you hate daily charging, prioritize rings with 5+ day battery ratings.
Water Resistance for Active Lifestyles
Water resistance ratings matter more than most people realize. An IP68 rating handles splashes and brief submersion, while 5ATM and 10ATM ratings support swimming and water sports. If you swim regularly or want a ring you never need to remove, look for 5ATM or higher. The Mirlray’s 10ATM rating is the most robust for water activities.
Subscription Costs vs One-Time Purchase
Some premium rings require monthly subscriptions for full feature access, while budget and mid-range options typically offer lifetime access with no recurring fees. Calculate the total cost of ownership over 1-2 years. A subscription ring might cost more over time than a slightly pricier no-subscription alternative. If you want to explore more fitness tracking options beyond rings, check out our guides on best fitness trackers and best fitness trackers for swimming.
Sizing and Comfort
Smart ring sizing is critical and differs from standard ring sizing. Most brands recommend ordering a sizing kit before purchasing. Rings that are too tight restrict blood flow and affect sensor accuracy, while loose rings slide around and produce inconsistent readings. Measure your finger at different times of day since finger size fluctuates with temperature and activity level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which ring fitness tracker is the best?
The Oura Ring 5 is the best overall fitness tracker ring thanks to its research-grade sensors, 50+ health metrics, and integration with 40+ fitness apps. For budget buyers, the UniJethro and Oucscru rings offer solid tracking without subscription fees.
Do fitness rings really work?
Yes, fitness rings work well for tracking sleep, heart rate, stress, and general activity trends. They use PPG sensors and accelerometers to monitor health metrics continuously. While they are not as accurate as chest straps for real-time workout heart rate, they provide reliable trend data for recovery, sleep quality, and daily activity levels.
What are the downsides of smart rings?
The main downsides include limited workout detection compared to smartwatches, step counting that relies on hand movement rather than body movement, shorter battery life during heavy use, and potential sizing difficulties. Some premium rings also require monthly subscriptions for full feature access.
Are ring fitness trackers worth it?
Ring fitness trackers are worth it for people who want 24/7 health monitoring without the bulk of a smartwatch. They excel at sleep tracking comfort, recovery monitoring, and stress detection. If you value discreet wearability and continuous health data, a smart ring is a worthwhile investment for your fitness routine.
What is the best smart ring without subscription?
The VANBERRAY Smart Ring, Free Shark Smart Ring, and VIYONA Smart Ring are the best smart rings without subscription fees. All three offer comprehensive health tracking including heart rate, sleep stages, SpO2, and activity monitoring with no monthly costs. The VANBERRAY stands out with its 150-day charging case battery life.
Final Verdict
After testing all 10 rings over several weeks of real-world fitness tracking, the Oura Ring 5 stands out as the best smart ring for fitness in 2026. Its research-grade sensors, 50+ health metrics, and seamless app integrations make it the most capable fitness tracking ring available. The subscription cost is a legitimate drawback, but the depth of actionable health data justifies the investment for serious fitness enthusiasts.
If you want the best value without subscription fees, the VANBERRAY Smart Ring offers an exceptional combination of features and battery life. For budget buyers, the UniJethro Smart Ring delivers the core fitness tracking you need at the lowest entry price. And if you’re a swimmer, the Free Shark and Mirlray rings with their superior waterproof ratings are your best options. Whatever your fitness goals and budget, there’s a smart ring on this list that will help you track and improve your health.