Thinking about taking your smartwatch for a dip in the pool or a swim in the ocean? Before you dive in, it is essential to understand which Apple Watch models are built for the water and how to properly maintain your device to ensure it stays functional for years to come.
Which Apple Watch Models Are Suitable for Swimming?
Apple Watch water resistance has come a long way since the device’s debut. While the original Apple Watch and Series 1 were only splash-resistant (not recommended for submerged use), every model from the Series 2 onward has been designed for active use in the water.
Apple Watch Series 2 through Series 10, along with the Apple Watch SE, carry a water resistance rating of 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010. This makes them perfectly suited for shallow-water activities, such as swimming laps in a pool or wading in the ocean. However, these standard models are not intended for scuba diving or high-impact water sports. Notably, the Apple Watch Series 10 includes a dedicated depth gauge that functions up to 6 meters, making it a great choice for snorkeling.
For users who demand more from their gear, the Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2 are in a league of their own. These models feature a 100-meter water resistance rating and meet the EN13319 standard for diving accessories. This makes them suitable for recreational scuba diving to depths of 40 meters and high-speed water sports, such as waterskiing, where the force of the water hitting the watch is significantly higher than during a casual swim.
Water Resistance Is Not Permanent
It is a common misconception that water resistance is a permanent feature. In reality, the seals that keep moisture out can degrade over time. Apple notes that once these seals lose their integrity, they cannot be rechecked or resealed. Several factors can prematurely age or damage your watch’s protective barriers:
- Physical impacts, such as dropping the device.
- Exposure to soap, shampoo, conditioner, perfumes, or harsh detergents.
- Contact with sunscreens, oils, insect repellents, or hair dyes.
- Extreme heat, such as wearing the watch in a steam room or sauna (while Ultra models are rated for temperatures up to 55°C, it is generally best to avoid saunas with standard models).
If you are looking for a device primarily for fitness tracking, you can find more specialized advice in our guide to the best Apple Watch for sports.
Post-Swim Maintenance
Properly cleaning your device after a swim is the best way to prevent long-term damage from salt and chlorine. After exiting the water, rinse your watch under a light stream of warm, fresh tap water. Once rinsed, dry the watch and the band thoroughly with a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth.
Apple strongly advises against using soap, cleaning agents, compressed air, or external heat sources (like hair dryers) to dry the device. If the speaker sounds muffled after water exposure, do not insert any objects into the microphone or speaker ports to try and “clear” the water manually.
Using Water Lock and Ejecting Water
All swimming-compatible Apple Watches include a feature called Water Lock. When you start a swimming workout, this feature activates automatically to lock the screen, preventing water droplets from triggering accidental taps or swipes.
Once you finish your session, turn off Water Lock by pressing and holding the Digital Crown. The watch will then play a series of tones, creating specific vibrations that physically eject any water trapped inside the speaker grill. This is a critical step for maintaining audio quality and preventing internal moisture buildup. For a deeper look at the differences between generations, see our Apple Watch model comparison.
Choosing the Right Watch Band for Swimming
Not all watch bands are water-friendly. Leather and stainless steel bands are not intended for aquatic use and can quickly deteriorate or tarnish when exposed to moisture, salt, or chlorine. For swimming, silicone or nylon bands are the gold standard, as they are durable, comfortable, and dry quickly.
If you are looking to update your style, refurbished Apple Watch bands offer a wide variety of materials suitable for both the gym and the pool. For more tips on finding the perfect fit, check out our guide: Apple Watch bands: How to choose?.
When selecting a device for your aquatic adventures, opting for a refurbished model is both an environmentally conscious and cost-effective choice. At UPGREAT, our devices are inspected by certified technicians and come with a 2-year warranty. It’s the most reliable way to secure a high-performance Apple Watch that is ready to hit the water when you are.
Explore our blog for more tech reviews and news, and stay updated on the latest UPGREAT deals by following us on FB or Instagram.
