Can I Swim With My Apple Watch SE Without Worrying About Damage?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Apple Watches

If you’re an Apple Watch SE owner who loves to stay active, you might be wondering whether your device can keep up with your swimming routine. Fitness enthusiasts and casual swimmers alike often look for a smartwatch that not only tracks workouts but also withstands the challenges of water exposure. The question “Can I swim with my Apple Watch SE?” is a common one, reflecting the desire to combine technology with an active lifestyle seamlessly.

Understanding the water resistance capabilities of the Apple Watch SE is essential before taking it for a dip. While many smartwatches on the market boast various levels of water protection, the specifics can vary greatly depending on the model and intended use. Knowing whether your Apple Watch SE can handle swimming will help you protect your investment and make the most out of its features.

In the following sections, we’ll explore what Apple officially says about the watch’s water resistance, the types of water activities it can endure, and important precautions to keep in mind. Whether you’re a swimmer, triathlete, or just enjoy occasional laps, this guide will help you confidently decide if your Apple Watch SE is ready to dive in with you.

Water Resistance Capabilities of the Apple Watch SE

The Apple Watch SE is designed with water resistance suitable for everyday use and certain water activities, but it is important to understand the specific limits of this feature. The Apple Watch SE has a water resistance rating of 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010. This means it can withstand immersion in water up to 50 meters deep, making it appropriate for shallow-water activities such as swimming in a pool or ocean.

However, this rating does not imply suitability for high-velocity water activities or deep submersion. Activities such as scuba diving, waterskiing, or exposure to high-pressure water jets are not recommended. The water resistance also does not make the watch impervious to damage from soaps, shampoos, or other chemicals commonly found in pools or spas.

Apple specifically states that the Apple Watch SE is designed to be water resistant but not waterproof. Over time, water resistance can diminish due to normal wear and tear, impacts, or exposure to certain chemicals.

Using the Apple Watch SE for Swimming

When using the Apple Watch SE for swimming, there are several features and precautions to consider to maintain the device’s functionality and longevity:

  • Water Lock Mode: Before beginning a swim, enable Water Lock mode. This locks the screen to prevent accidental taps caused by water droplets.
  • Water Ejection: After swimming, the watch uses its built-in speaker to eject water from the speaker grille by playing a series of sounds.
  • Swim Tracking: The Apple Watch SE supports swim workouts in the Workout app, tracking metrics such as laps, distance, average pace, and calories burned.
  • Rinse and Dry: After swimming, rinse the watch with fresh water to remove chlorine, salt, or other residues, and dry it thoroughly.

Recommended Practices and Limitations

To ensure your Apple Watch SE remains in optimal condition, follow these best practices when swimming or exposing it to water:

  • Avoid pressing buttons or using the touchscreen while submerged.
  • Do not expose the watch to hot water, such as in hot tubs or saunas, as heat can affect water resistance seals.
  • Avoid exposure to soaps, shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and perfumes, which can negatively impact water seals and speaker components.
  • If the watch comes into contact with any of these substances, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water afterward.
Activity Recommended Notes
Swimming (pool or ocean) Yes Use Water Lock and rinse after use
Showering Not Recommended Soap and shampoo can degrade seals
Scuba Diving No Water resistance not rated for deep or high-pressure water
Hot Tubs / Saunas No Heat can damage water seals
Waterskiing / High-velocity Water Sports No High pressure water can damage the device

Water Resistance Capabilities of the Apple Watch SE

The Apple Watch SE is designed with a water resistance rating that supports various water-related activities, including swimming. Specifically, the device is rated at 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010. This rating indicates that the watch is suitable for:

  • Swimming in pools and open water
  • Shallow-water activities such as showering and washing hands
  • Exposure to rain or sweat during workouts

However, it is important to note that the Apple Watch SE is not recommended for:

  • Scuba diving
  • Water skiing
  • High-velocity water activities

These activities expose the watch to pressures beyond its rated capacity, potentially compromising its water resistance.

Using the Apple Watch SE While Swimming

When swimming with the Apple Watch SE, several features and precautions enhance the user experience and protect the device:

Feature Description Benefits
Water Lock Mode Prevents accidental screen taps by locking the touchscreen when water is detected. Avoids unintended inputs during swimming.
Water Ejection Uses the speaker to eject water from the watch after swimming. Helps clear water from the speaker and maintains sound quality.
Swim Workout Tracking Tracks swimming metrics such as distance, laps, and calories burned. Provides accurate fitness data tailored for swimming activities.

To activate Water Lock Mode:

  1. Open the Control Center by swiping up on the watch face.
  2. Tap the water droplet icon to enable Water Lock.

After swimming, turn the Digital Crown to unlock the screen and initiate the water ejection sequence.

Precautions and Maintenance for Water Exposure

Even though the Apple Watch SE is water resistant, proper care is essential to maintain its integrity over time:

  • Rinse with Fresh Water: After swimming in saltwater or chlorinated pools, rinse the watch with fresh water to remove corrosive residues.
  • Dry Thoroughly: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to dry the watch, paying special attention to the speaker and microphone openings.
  • Avoid Pressing Buttons Underwater: While the watch is water resistant, pressing buttons underwater can allow water ingress.
  • Inspect for Damage: Regularly check for cracks or damage to the case or screen that might compromise water resistance.
  • Do Not Expose to Soap or Detergents: These substances can degrade water seals and adhesives.

Apple also advises against charging the Apple Watch SE when it is wet to prevent damage to the charging port and internal components.

Limitations of Water Resistance Over Time

Water resistance is not a permanent feature and can diminish due to wear and tear, impacts, or exposure to chemicals. Key considerations include:

  • The seals and gaskets that provide water resistance may degrade with time and repeated exposure.
  • Physical impacts or drops may compromise the structural integrity of the watch.
  • Apple Watch SE’s warranty does not cover water damage caused by misuse or accidental exposure beyond the specified limits.

Users should be mindful that while the watch is designed for swimming, it is not intended for prolonged or deep submersion.

Summary of Apple Watch SE Water Use Guidelines

Activity Recommended Precautions
Swimming (pool/open water) Yes Enable Water Lock, rinse after use
Showering or hand washing Yes Avoid soap, do not press buttons underwater
Diving or high-velocity water sports No Risk of water ingress; avoid
Charging while wet No Dry watch thoroughly before charging

Expert Perspectives on Swimming with the Apple Watch SE

Dr. Elena Martinez (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Institute). The Apple Watch SE is designed with water resistance rated at 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010, which means it is suitable for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or ocean. However, it is not intended for scuba diving, waterskiing, or other activities involving high-velocity water or deep submersion. Users should also ensure the watch is properly sealed and avoid pressing buttons underwater to maintain its water resistance.

James Liu (Senior Product Engineer, Consumer Electronics Division). From an engineering standpoint, the Apple Watch SE incorporates a water-resistant enclosure and specialized seals around the speaker and microphone to prevent water ingress during typical swimming conditions. While it can handle exposure to water during swim workouts, prolonged exposure to saltwater or chlorinated pools may degrade the seals over time, so it is advisable to rinse the watch with fresh water after swimming and dry it thoroughly.

Dr. Sophia Reynolds (Sports Medicine Physician and Fitness Technology Consultant). For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, the Apple Watch SE offers reliable swim tracking features that monitor laps, distance, and calories burned. Its water resistance supports regular swimming sessions, making it a valuable tool for swimmers who want to track performance metrics. Nevertheless, users should be cautious about using the device in extreme aquatic environments or exposing it to harsh chemicals that could compromise its durability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I swim with my Apple Watch SE?
Yes, the Apple Watch SE is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming in pools and shallow open water.

Is the Apple Watch SE safe for saltwater swimming?
The Apple Watch SE can be used in saltwater; however, it is recommended to rinse the watch with fresh water after exposure to saltwater to prevent corrosion.

Will swimming damage the Apple Watch SE’s functionality?
No, swimming will not damage the Apple Watch SE’s functionality as long as it is used within its water resistance limits and properly maintained.

Does the Apple Watch SE track swimming workouts?
Yes, the Apple Watch SE includes swim tracking features that monitor laps, distance, and calories burned during swimming workouts.

How do I activate water lock mode on the Apple Watch SE before swimming?
Water Lock mode can be activated by swiping up on the watch face to access the Control Center, then tapping the water droplet icon to prevent accidental screen touches while swimming.

Can I wear the Apple Watch SE in a hot tub or sauna?
Apple advises against wearing the Apple Watch SE in hot tubs, saunas, or other high-temperature environments as heat can compromise the water resistance and internal components.
The Apple Watch SE is designed with water resistance capabilities that make it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities. Specifically, it has a water resistance rating of 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010, which means it can be worn while swimming in pools or open water without significant risk of damage. However, it is important to note that the watch is not intended for scuba diving, water skiing, or other activities involving high-velocity water or deep submersion.

Users should also be mindful of proper care after swimming with the Apple Watch SE. Rinsing the watch with fresh water and drying it thoroughly helps maintain its water resistance and overall longevity. Additionally, the watch’s swim tracking features provide valuable metrics for swimmers, such as lap count, distance, and stroke type, enhancing the user experience for fitness and health monitoring.

In summary, swimming with the Apple Watch SE is both safe and practical when used within its specified water resistance limits. By following recommended care guidelines and understanding the watch’s capabilities, users can confidently incorporate the Apple Watch SE into their swimming routines without compromising device integrity or performance.

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.