TomTom · Waterproof Smartwatches & Fitness Trackers
TomTom Runner GPS Watch
GPS watch with waterproof treatment; brand silent on PFAS.
TomTom does not publicly disclose PFAS use or absence in Runner watches. Waterproof coatings commonly contain PFAS; no independent testing data available for this model.
The safe swap
Swatch
Swatch Chrono 42 Quartz Watch
85/100 safety
Same rubric that flunked this product. The swap earned its B.
Still want this one anyway? Check the price on Amazon. We’d swap it.
Material
Plastic case, elastomer band, waterproof coating
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
Why this grade
Waterproof / stain-resistant treatment
water-repellent coating treatments have historically used PFAS.
Category baseline
other is a category where PFAS exposure is more common.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement about PFAS in this product.
The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
TomTom Runner uses a plastic case (likely polycarbonate or acrylic composite for durability and light weight) paired with an elastomer (rubber) band for comfort during exercise. The waterproof coating applied to achieve water resistance is the material of greatest concern: such coatings on consumer sports watches are often Teflon-family coating-based (which ties to PFAS) or polyurethane-based (which can off-gas volatile organic compounds). No independent testing of this specific model's coatings is on public record.
The brand's record and disclosure
TomTom has not published a public PFAS policy or materials disclosure statement as of available records. The company does not advertise third-party material certifications (e.g., Oeko-Tex, RoHS) for this consumer sports line. Without proactive transparency on coating chemistry or manufacturing standards, users cannot verify the specific waterproofing agent used. This silence is notably different from brands that explicitly state fluorine-free or PFAS-free coatings.
How it compares in its category
Most consumer sports watches (Garmin, Apple Watch, Fitbit) share identical material profiles: plastic case, elastomer band, waterproof coating. Few mainstream brands disclose coating chemistry; TomTom's silence is typical rather than exceptional. However, brands like Garmin have begun responding to PFAS inquiries, whereas TomTom has not, creating a relative disadvantage in transparency. Price and feature parity mean the choice often hinges on software rather than material safety.
If you buy it
Avoid prolonged exposure to heat (leave off direct sunlight for extended periods; do not use in saunas or steam rooms above 60 degrees C) to minimize risk of coating degradation and potential leaching from polymer components. Inspect the band regularly for cracking or delamination, as elastomer degradation can release microparticles. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use to reduce corrosion of any metal components and coating stress. Replace the band if visible wear appears; replacement bands are typically available and cheaper than the full device.
Beyond PFAS: other things we checked
Established hazard classes for this product type, assessed from public information. These never change the PFAS grade; a Likely flag caps the Verdict at “Buy with care.”
Waterproof coating degradation and unknown chemistry
The Teflon-family coating or polyurethane waterproof coating may degrade over years of use, temperature swings, and UV exposure. Without TomTom's disclosure of the specific coating agent, the risk of PFAS or other volatile leachates cannot be ruled out.
Elastomer band degradation and microparticle release
Rubber and synthetic elastomer bands degrade with sweat, UV light, and flexing over 2-3 years. Degraded material may shed microparticles; elastomers may also contain residual plasticizers (phthalate-class compounds) that leach in small amounts during skin contact.
Plastic case polymer leaching under heat or sweat
Polycarbonate cases can release bisphenol A (BPA) and other monomers if exposed to prolonged heat or high-pH cleaners. No specific recalls or testing of TomTom Runner for BPA leaching are on public record, but the risk profile is present for all plastic sports watches.
Metal component corrosion and debris
If the watch contains internal metal contacts or fasteners (common in GPS watches), saltwater or chlorinated water exposure may cause corrosion that produces metal particulates or debris inside the housing. Poor drainage design can trap moisture.
Lack of material transparency and third-party certification
TomTom's silence on PFAS and absence of published material safety certifications (e.g., Oeko-Tex, RoHS) is a documented limitation in the public record. This prevents independent verification of hazard claims and is a red flag for informed purchasing.
What we don’t know
This grade is a model-based estimate from public materials, coatings, and brand disclosure at 45% confidence. It is not a lab result.
No independent PFAS lab test is on record for this exact product. A lab test could move the score in either direction.
The brand has not made a specific, verifiable PFAS-free statement, so part of this score reflects that missing disclosure rather than a confirmed material.
Formulations and coatings change between production runs. Always check the current label before buying.
Safer alternatives in Waterproof Smartwatches & Fitness Trackers
Swatch
Chrono 42 Quartz Watch
Stainless steel case, mineral/plastic crystal, standard watch components
Lower concern. Standard watch materials pose minimal PFAS risk.
⚠Brand says nothing about PFAS
Swatch
SEA WASP
Plastic/resin watch case and strap
Typical consumer watch, no known PFAS risk signal identified
⚠Brand says nothing about PFAS
Swatch
Neon Seppia Big Bold Chrono Quartz Watch
Stainless steel case, plastic/resin band, mineral or acrylic crystal
Lower concern. Standard watch materials typically lack intentional PFAS use.
⚠Brand says nothing about PFAS
More waterproof smartwatches & fitness trackers grades
How we score: every product runs through the same public 0–100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.