TomTom · Waterproof Smartphone Cases
TomTom Runner GPS Watch
No coating described, and no PFAS statement from the brand.
The product information we reviewed describes plastic case, elastomer band, with no water-repellent coating named. Water resistance on products like this usually comes from the material and its seals rather than a surface treatment. The brand has published no PFAS statement for it.
We flunk more products than we pass. This one earned its grade. How we grade
Material
Plastic case, elastomer band
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
What’s concerning
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement from the brand about PFAS in this product.
Plasticizer leaching (elastomer band)
Elastomer bands typically contain plasticizers such as phthalates or alternative esters to maintain flexibility. Direct skin contact is the primary exposure route; leaching is minimal at room temperature but may increase with sweat, heat, or sunscreen/insect repellent contact. No specific testing data for TomTom Runner elastomer is publicly available.
Bacterial/fungal growth in band crevices
Elastomer bands can harbor bacteria and mold if not cleaned regularly, particularly in warm or humid conditions. This is a hygiene concern rather than a chemical toxicity hazard but is common enough to warrant user awareness and routine cleaning.
Plastic case degradation and microparticle release
Polycarbonate and acetal copolymer can degrade under UV exposure and thermal cycling. Cracking or spalling of the case material over years of use could theoretically release small plastic particles, though this is not a documented failure mode specific to the TomTom Runner.
Allergen or irritant additives in band material
Elastomer formulations may include antioxidants, UV stabilizers, or colorants that trigger contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. No formulation data or allergen warnings are published by TomTom; skin reactions are rare but unpredictable across users.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
Heavy metals
The circuit board and battery may contain trace soldering metals (lead, cadmium) per standard electronics regulations. These are sealed inside the case and pose no exposure risk during normal wear or end-of-life disposal by a consumer.
Source, FDA ↗The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
The TomTom Runner is constructed from a plastic case (likely polycarbonate or acetal copolymer for durability) paired with an elastomer band, typical for GPS sports watches. Plastic cases in this category do not involve ceramic glazes, Teflon-type coating coatings, or metal cookware finishes, so lead, cadmium, and Teflon-type coating fume hazards do not apply. The elastomer band may contain plasticizers, but exposure during normal wrist wear is negligible compared to food-contact plastics. No coating beyond the base polymer is described.
The brand's record and disclosure
TomTom has maintained a silent stance on PFAS; the company has not published a specific PFAS reduction commitment or testing data for this device. However, no recalls, safety warnings, or documented contamination issues have been reported for the Runner GPS watch. The brand does not market antimicrobial finishes or water-repellent coatings that would raise PFAS concern. Absence of disclosure is typical for sports watch manufacturers but does not indicate a safety problem.
How it compares in its category
Within waterproof sports watches, the Runner is representative of mainstream plastic-elastomer construction, avoiding the more complex coatings found in premium or outdoor-specialist models. Competitors using similar materials (Garmin, Suunto entry-level models) face comparable or identical hazard profiles. No material or manufacturing advantage is evident, but no documented disadvantage either. The IP67 rating (waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes) derives from seals and case design, not a chemical coating.
If you buy it
Clean the elastomer band regularly with mild soap and water to prevent bacterial buildup and skin irritation, especially in warm climates. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat (above 60°C/140°F), which can weaken the elastomer and plastic over time. Replace the band if it shows cracking, stiffness, or discoloration after years of use. The battery is not user-replaceable; plan for device lifespan of 3-5 years depending on model revision.
What we don’t know
- Basis
- Model estimate, 45% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- TomTom has made none
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
More waterproof smartphone cases 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.