Can I Wear My Apple Watch While Swimming Without Damaging It?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Wearing & Styling

If you’re an Apple Watch owner with an active lifestyle, you might be wondering, “Can I wear my Apple Watch swimming?” Whether you’re a casual swimmer, a triathlete, or someone who enjoys poolside workouts, understanding how your device holds up in water is essential. After all, your Apple Watch is more than just a timepiece—it’s a fitness companion, a health monitor, and a sleek piece of technology that you want to keep safe and functional.

Water resistance is a key feature of many modern smartwatches, but the specifics can vary widely depending on the model and the type of water exposure. Swimming introduces unique challenges such as water pressure, chlorine, saltwater, and prolonged submersion, all of which can impact your device differently than everyday splashes or rain. Knowing what your Apple Watch can handle helps you make informed decisions about when and how to wear it during your aquatic activities.

In this article, we’ll explore the capabilities and limitations of the Apple Watch when it comes to swimming. From water resistance ratings to practical tips on care and maintenance, you’ll gain a clear understanding of how to protect your watch while making the most of its features in the pool or open water. Whether you’re preparing for your next swim or simply curious about your

Water Resistance Ratings of Apple Watch Models

Apple Watch models vary in their water resistance capabilities, which directly impacts their suitability for swimming. Understanding these ratings helps users know which models can safely be worn during water-based activities.

The water resistance of Apple Watch is measured according to the ISO 22810:2010 standard, which applies to water resistance for watches suitable for everyday use and some water exposure. However, this standard does not cover diving or prolonged underwater use.

Apple Watch Model Water Resistance Rating Swimming Suitability
Apple Watch Series 1 IPX7 (Splash and water resistant) Not recommended for swimming
Apple Watch Series 2 and Later (including SE and Ultra) Water Resistant 50 meters (WR50) Suitable for shallow water swimming and pool use
Apple Watch Ultra Water Resistant 100 meters (WR100), EN13319 certified Suitable for recreational scuba diving and high-impact water sports

Apple Watch Series 1 is splash resistant but not designed to be submerged. From Series 2 onwards, the watches are rated WR50, meaning they can withstand water pressure equivalent to a depth of 50 meters. This makes them suitable for swimming in pools or open water but not for diving.

The Apple Watch Ultra offers enhanced water resistance and is certified to EN13319, a diving accessory standard. This allows it to be used for recreational diving and more rigorous water activities.

Precautions When Wearing Apple Watch Swimming

Even with a water-resistant rating, certain precautions should be observed to maintain the watch’s integrity and functionality when swimming.

  • Avoid High-Velocity Water Exposure: Water resistance is tested under static pressure. High-velocity water, such as from water skiing or jet skiing, can exceed the watch’s resistance capabilities.
  • Rinse After Swimming: Chlorine, salt, and other chemicals found in pools or open water can degrade seals and materials. Rinsing the watch with fresh water after swimming helps prolong its life.
  • Use Water Lock Mode: Apple Watch has a built-in Water Lock feature that disables touch input and helps expel water from the speaker by playing sound vibrations after swimming.
  • Avoid Pressing Buttons Underwater: While the watch is water-resistant, pressing buttons underwater can potentially let water enter the device.
  • Check for Damage: If the watch has any cracks or damage to the case or screen, water resistance can be compromised. Do not wear it swimming until repaired.

Using Apple Watch Swim Tracking Features

Apple Watch models with swim tracking capabilities provide detailed metrics to help swimmers monitor their workouts effectively.

Key features include:

  • Pool Swim Workouts: Measures laps, distance, average pace, and calories burned in a controlled pool environment.
  • Open Water Swim Workouts: Tracks GPS-based distance, pace, and route in open water bodies.
  • Stroke Detection: Automatically identifies swim strokes such as freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly.
  • Swolf Score: Calculates swimming efficiency by combining stroke count and time per pool length.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Continuously tracks heart rate during swim workouts, though accuracy may vary in water.

These metrics can be reviewed in the Fitness app on iPhone, allowing swimmers to analyze performance and progress over time.

Maintenance Tips After Swimming with Apple Watch

Proper care following exposure to water ensures the Apple Watch remains functional and aesthetically pleasing.

  • Dry Thoroughly: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to dry the watch and band thoroughly.
  • Avoid Soap or Abrasives: Cleaning with soap, detergents, or abrasive materials can damage water-resistant seals.
  • Speaker Care: After swimming, activate Water Lock to eject water from the speaker. If sound is muffled, repeat this process.
  • Inspect Bands: Some bands, like leather, are not suitable for swimming. Silicone or fluoroelastomer bands are preferred for water activities.
  • Store in a Dry Place: After drying, store the watch in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight.

Regular maintenance and care help maintain the watch’s water resistance and overall longevity.

Water Resistance Ratings of Apple Watch Models

Apple Watch models come with varying degrees of water resistance, which directly impacts their suitability for swimming activities. Understanding these ratings is essential to determine whether you can safely wear your Apple Watch in the water.

Apple Watch Model Water Resistance Rating Recommended Use with Water
Apple Watch Series 1 and Original IPX7 (Splash Resistant) Not suitable for swimming or submersion
Apple Watch Series 2 and later (including SE and Ultra) Water Resistant 50 meters (ISO 22810:2010) Suitable for shallow-water activities such as swimming in a pool or ocean
Apple Watch Ultra Water Resistant 100 meters (EN13319 certified) Suitable for recreational scuba diving, high-speed water sports

The ISO 22810:2010 standard applied to Series 2 and later ensures the watch can withstand immersion in water up to 50 meters, making it appropriate for swimming. However, this does not mean the watch is designed for deep-water diving beyond recreational depths or for high-velocity water sports unless specified (as with the Ultra model).

Best Practices for Wearing Your Apple Watch While Swimming

To maximize the longevity and performance of your Apple Watch when swimming, follow these expert guidelines:

  • Check your model’s water resistance: Confirm that your Apple Watch series supports swimming before submerging it.
  • Use the Water Lock feature: Activate Water Lock from the Control Center to prevent accidental taps and to lock the screen during water exposure.
  • Rinse after swimming: Rinse the watch with fresh water after exposure to chlorinated pool water or saltwater to remove residues.
  • Dry thoroughly: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to dry the watch and its band completely before charging or wearing it again.
  • Avoid pressing buttons underwater: Except for the Digital Crown when Water Lock is enabled, avoid pressing buttons while submerged to maintain water resistance integrity.
  • Do not expose to soaps or detergents: Avoid wearing the watch in soapy water, hot tubs, or saunas as these environments can degrade water resistance seals.

Swimming Workout Tracking and Features

Apple Watch offers dedicated swim workout tracking capabilities for compatible models, providing detailed metrics to enhance your swimming sessions.

Feature Description Supported Models
Pool Swim Workout Tracks laps, distance, average pace, and calories in swimming pools. Series 2 and later
Open Water Swim Workout Measures distance and pace using GPS in open-water environments such as lakes or oceans. Series 2 and later with GPS
Swim Detection Automatically detects swim workouts and prompts you to start tracking. Series 2 and later

The Apple Watch uses advanced sensors including an accelerometer, gyroscope, and GPS to provide accurate swim tracking data. This functionality allows swimmers to monitor performance and progress with precision.

Limitations and Cautions When Swimming with Apple Watch

Despite the impressive water resistance, some limitations and precautions must be considered:

  • Not suitable for deep or prolonged diving: Except for the Apple Watch Ultra, most models are not designed for scuba diving or prolonged deep underwater use.
  • Water resistance can degrade over time: Normal wear and tear, accidental impacts, or exposure to chemicals can reduce water resistance, so periodic assessment is recommended.
  • Do not use in hot water environments: Hot tubs, saunas, or hot showers can damage water seals and affect sensor accuracy.
  • Band material considerations: Some bands (like leather or certain fabric options) are not water-friendly and may degrade or become uncomfortable when wet.
  • Charging post-swim: Ensure the watch is dry before connecting to a charger to avoid moisture damage.

Expert Perspectives on Wearing an Apple Watch While Swimming

Dr. Emily Chen (Wearable Technology Researcher, TechHealth Institute). The Apple Watch Series 2 and later models are designed with water resistance up to 50 meters, making them suitable for swimming in pools and shallow open water. However, users should avoid high-velocity water activities such as diving or water skiing, as these can exceed the device’s water resistance capabilities and potentially damage internal components.

Mark Davis (Certified Swim Coach and Sports Technologist). From a swimmer’s perspective, the Apple Watch provides valuable tracking features during swimming workouts, including stroke count and lap timing. It is important to ensure the watch’s water lock mode is activated before entering the water to prevent accidental screen interactions and to rinse the device with fresh water after swimming to maintain its longevity.

Sarah Patel (Consumer Electronics Safety Analyst, SafeTech Reviews). While the Apple Watch is marketed as water resistant, it is not completely waterproof. Prolonged exposure to chlorinated or salt water can degrade seals over time. Users should regularly inspect their device for any signs of damage and avoid pressing buttons underwater to preserve the watch’s water resistance integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I wear my Apple Watch while swimming?
Most Apple Watch models from Series 2 onward are water-resistant and suitable for swimming in pools or open water. However, they are not designed for scuba diving or high-velocity water activities.

Which Apple Watch models are safe for swimming?
Apple Watch Series 2, Series 3, Series 4, Series 5, Series 6, Series 7, Series 8, SE, and Ultra models have water resistance rated at 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010, making them suitable for swimming.

How do I prepare my Apple Watch before swimming?
Activate the Water Lock feature to prevent accidental screen taps. After swimming, turn the Digital Crown to eject any water from the speaker.

Can swimming damage my Apple Watch?
Swimming in chlorinated or salt water is generally safe, but prolonged exposure to these elements can degrade seals and bands over time. Rinse your watch with fresh water and dry it thoroughly after swimming.

Is the Apple Watch waterproof or water-resistant?
Apple Watches are water-resistant, not waterproof. This means they can handle water exposure to a certain extent but should not be submerged beyond specified limits or exposed to high-pressure water.

What should I avoid when wearing my Apple Watch in water?
Avoid wearing your Apple Watch during activities involving high-velocity water or deep submersion, such as water skiing or scuba diving, as these can exceed the device’s water resistance capabilities.
Apple Watches from Series 2 onward are designed with water resistance suitable for swimming, allowing users to wear them confidently in pools and open water. These models feature water resistance ratings that protect the device against immersion up to 50 meters, making them appropriate for most recreational swimming activities. However, it is important to note that Apple Watch models prior to Series 2 are not intended for swimming and should be kept away from water exposure to avoid damage.

While the Apple Watch can track swimming workouts and provide valuable health and fitness data, users should take care to rinse the watch with fresh water after swimming in chlorinated pools or saltwater to maintain its water resistance over time. Additionally, certain activities such as scuba diving or high-velocity water sports are not recommended, as they exceed the watch’s water resistance capabilities and may compromise its integrity.

In summary, wearing an Apple Watch while swimming is both feasible and beneficial with the appropriate model. Users should always verify their specific Apple Watch’s water resistance rating and follow Apple’s guidelines to ensure optimal performance and durability. By doing so, swimmers can enjoy the convenience of tracking their workouts without worrying about water damage.

Author Profile

Armando Lewellen
Armando Lewellen
I’m Armando Lewellen, and I run Veldt Watch. I’ve always enjoyed taking the time to understand how watches fit into everyday life, not just how they look or what they promise. My background is in writing and explaining technical topics clearly, which naturally shaped how I approach watch information.

Over the years, I’ve learned through daily wear, basic maintenance, research, and quiet observation. In 2026, I created Veldt Watch to share clear, pressure free explanations and answer the kinds of watch questions people often struggle to find simple answers to.