TomTom · Waterproof Smartwatches & Fitness Trackers
TomTom Spark GPS Fitness Watch
Unknown waterproof treatment; TomTom discloses nothing about PFAS.
GPS sports watches typically use water-resistant coatings that may contain PFAS, but TomTom provides no transparency. No public lab data or certifications 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
The TomTom Spark has a plastic case, elastomer (rubber) band, and a waterproof coating of undisclosed composition. Elastomer bands are generally stable but can degrade with sweat, sunscreen, and UV exposure over time. The waterproof treatment is the primary unknown: TomTom has not publicly detailed whether this uses PFAS-based hydrophobic chemicals (common in wearable coatings) or alternatives. Plastic housings can leach softeners or colorants under stress, though this is minimal in body-contact wearables at normal wear temperatures.
The brand's record and disclosure
TomTom has no established public record of PFAS transparency or third-party chemical disclosures for this product line. The company does not advertise PFAS-free or low-PFAS certifications for wearables. No major recalls or chemical safety controversies have been documented for the Spark specifically. This silence is typical of smaller electronics brands and does not indicate a known hazard, but limits consumer ability to verify waterproof treatment safety.
How it compares in its category
Fitness watches universally rely on waterproof coatings, and most brands (Garmin, Fitbit, Apple Watch) do not disclose PFAS use. The Spark is mid-range in disclosure transparency. More expensive premium watches may have better material sourcing practices, while budget alternatives often have identical opaque supply chains. Elastomer bands are standard and not a differentiation point for safety.
If you buy it
Rinse the band regularly with soap and fresh water after workouts or water exposure to reduce buildup of sweat and chlorine that accelerates elastomer degradation. Avoid prolonged direct sunlight when not wearing (UV breaks down rubber faster). Inspect the band annually for cracks, discoloration, or tackiness indicating breakdown; replace the band if visible wear compromises fit. Do not expose to extreme heat (saunas, hot water above 40C) as this may stress the waterproof seal.
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.”
Elastomer band degradation and allergen contact
Elastomer bands can degrade after 1-2 years of regular wear, particularly with sweat and sunscreen exposure. Degradation particles are not typically ingested but skin contact with degraded rubber is possible; allergic contact dermatitis to elastomer additives (vulcanizers, accelerators) is documented but uncommon.
Plastic case leaching under thermal or chemical stress
Plastic housings in wearables are generally stable at body temperature and normal use. No specific leaching incidents have been reported for the Spark. Risk is negligible under normal conditions but increases if device is heated or exposed to solvents.
Waterproof coating unknown composition
The waterproof treatment is undisclosed. If PFAS-based, it poses environmental and bioaccumulation concerns upon device disposal, but direct skin exposure risk during wear is low. This hazard is graded separately in PFAS assessment.
Battery-related thermal hazard (indirect)
Lithium batteries in wearables can overheat if shorted or overcharged, but the Spark has no documented thermal incidents. Standard precautions (avoid extreme heat, do not modify device) apply as with all wearables.
What we don’t know
This grade is a model-based estimate from public materials, coatings, and brand disclosure at 35% 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.