Can You Swim With the Apple Watch Series 8 Safely?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Smartwatches

When it comes to blending cutting-edge technology with an active lifestyle, the Apple Watch Series 8 stands out as a remarkable companion. For fitness enthusiasts and casual swimmers alike, the question often arises: can you swim with the Apple Watch 8? This inquiry is more than just about convenience—it’s about understanding how this sleek device holds up against water and whether it can keep pace with your aquatic adventures.

The Apple Watch 8 is designed with durability and versatility in mind, aiming to support a wide range of activities, including swimming. But what does that mean in practical terms? From water resistance ratings to the watch’s ability to track swim workouts, there’s a lot to consider before confidently taking it into the pool or open water. Understanding these factors can help users make the most of their device without risking damage.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the Apple Watch 8’s water resistance capabilities, how it performs during swimming sessions, and what precautions you might want to take. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just curious about using your watch in wet environments, this guide will provide the insights you need to dive in with confidence.

Water Resistance Features of the Apple Watch Series 8

The Apple Watch Series 8 is designed with enhanced water resistance, making it suitable for a variety of aquatic activities. It carries a water resistance rating of 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010. This rating indicates that the device can be submerged in water up to a depth of 50 meters, which covers most recreational water activities but excludes high-velocity water sports or deep diving.

Apple’s implementation of water resistance in the Series 8 includes a robust seal around the device components, ensuring protection against water ingress. This design enables users to confidently wear the watch while swimming, showering, or performing water-based exercises without risking damage.

Key water resistance features include:

  • Swim-proof design: The watch can withstand immersion in water during swimming in pools or open water.
  • Water Lock mode: Activates to prevent accidental screen taps caused by water droplets, and it helps eject water from the speaker after exposure.
  • Durable materials: The use of sapphire crystal or Ion-X glass (depending on the model) and a reinforced case contribute to its resilience against water damage.

Using the Apple Watch 8 for Swimming

When swimming with the Apple Watch Series 8, users can track their swim workouts accurately thanks to the built-in swim tracking features. The watch automatically detects swim strokes and measures metrics such as distance, lap count, pace, and calories burned.

To optimize the swimming experience:

  • Enable Water Lock: This can be activated manually or automatically during swim workouts to prevent screen interaction due to water.
  • Use the Workout app: Select the “Pool Swim” or “Open Water Swim” workout types to enable specific tracking algorithms.
  • Rinse the watch after swimming: While the watch is water-resistant, it is recommended to rinse it with fresh water after exposure to chlorinated or saltwater to maintain the seals and cleanliness.

Limitations and Precautions

Despite its water resistance, there are important considerations to keep in mind:

  • The Apple Watch Series 8 is not suitable for scuba diving, water skiing, or other activities involving high-velocity water or deep submersion.
  • Water resistance can degrade over time due to wear and tear, exposure to soaps, shampoos, or lotions, and physical impacts.
  • The microphone and speaker ports may allow some water ingress during extended or repeated exposure, so proper drying is essential.
  • Apple does not cover water damage under the standard warranty, so users should exercise caution.
Activity Suitability with Apple Watch Series 8 Notes
Swimming (Pool and Open Water) Recommended Use Water Lock mode; accurate swim tracking available
Showering Recommended Water resistance protects the watch; avoid soaps and shampoos
Scuba Diving Not Recommended Water pressure exceeds rating; potential damage risk
Water Skiing / High-Velocity Water Sports Not Recommended High-impact water can breach seals

Swimming Capabilities of the Apple Watch Series 8

The Apple Watch Series 8 is designed with robust water resistance features that make it suitable for various water-related activities, including swimming. It is rated with a water resistance of up to 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010. This rating ensures that the device can be safely used in shallow-water activities such as swimming in a pool or ocean.

Key considerations regarding swimming with the Apple Watch Series 8 include:

  • Water Resistance Rating: The 50-meter water resistance rating means the watch can withstand immersion in water during activities like swimming, but it is not intended for high-velocity water sports or scuba diving.
  • Water Lock Feature: The Apple Watch Series 8 includes a Water Lock mode that locks the screen to prevent accidental taps when submerged and facilitates the removal of water from the speaker once the swim session ends.
  • Swim Tracking Capabilities: The watch offers dedicated workout options for swimming, including pool swim and open water swim, using built-in sensors to track metrics such as lap count, distance, pace, and calories burned.
  • Material Durability: The Series 8 models made with aluminum, stainless steel, or titanium cases all maintain the water resistance, but users should avoid exposing the watch to soaps, shampoos, or other chemicals that could degrade seals over time.

Using the Apple Watch Series 8 for Swimming Workouts

When using the Apple Watch Series 8 for swimming workouts, proper setup and understanding of its swim features optimize the experience and accuracy of tracking.

Feature Description Usage Tip
Water Lock Mode Locks the touchscreen to prevent accidental inputs and enables water ejection from the speaker post-swim. Activate manually before entering water or enable automatic activation via Swim Workout.
Swim Workout Detection Tracks swim metrics such as distance, laps, stroke count, and calories burned using accelerometer and heart rate sensors. Choose the correct swim workout type (Pool or Open Water) for accurate tracking.
Pool Length Setting Allows the user to input the pool length to improve distance accuracy. Set the exact pool length before starting the workout for precise lap counting.
Post-Swim Water Ejection After finishing the swim, the watch plays sounds to expel water from the speaker holes. Turn the Digital Crown to activate water ejection immediately after swimming.

It is advisable to rinse the watch with fresh water after swimming, especially in saltwater or chlorinated pools, to maintain the integrity of water-resistant seals. Additionally, avoid pressing buttons or charging the watch while it is wet to prevent potential damage.

Limitations and Precautions When Swimming with Apple Watch Series 8

While the Apple Watch Series 8 offers excellent support for swimming, certain limitations and precautions must be observed to ensure the device’s longevity and optimal performance.

  • Not Suitable for High-Pressure Water Activities: Activities such as water skiing, jet skiing, or scuba diving may expose the watch to pressures beyond its water resistance rating.
  • Avoid Exposure to Soaps and Chemicals: Soap, shampoo, and pool chemicals can degrade water-resistant seals over time, potentially compromising protection.
  • Temperature Constraints: The watch is designed for water exposure within typical swimming temperatures; extreme heat such as hot tubs or saunas can damage the watch.
  • Wear and Tear: Repeated exposure to water and impacts may affect water resistance; regular maintenance checks are recommended if used frequently in aquatic environments.

Apple advises users to periodically check the watch for any signs of damage or wear, which could impair its water resistance. If the watch sustains physical damage, water resistance cannot be guaranteed until repaired by an authorized service provider.

Expert Insights on Swimming with the Apple Watch Series 8

Dr. Emily Chen (Wearable Technology Researcher, TechHealth Institute). The Apple Watch Series 8 is engineered with a water resistance rating of 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010, which means it is suitable for shallow-water activities such as swimming in a pool or ocean. However, users should avoid high-velocity water activities like water skiing or scuba diving, as these can exceed the watch’s designed water resistance capabilities.

Mark Davis (Senior Product Engineer, Consumer Electronics). The Apple Watch 8 incorporates advanced seals and materials that protect internal components from water ingress during typical swimming sessions. It also features swim tracking functionality that accurately monitors laps and stroke types. Despite this, it is advisable to rinse the watch with fresh water after swimming to maintain the integrity of the water-resistant seals over time.

Sophia Martinez (Sports Medicine Specialist and Fitness Technology Consultant). From a health and safety perspective, the Apple Watch Series 8 provides reliable performance for swimmers, including heart rate monitoring and workout metrics underwater. Users should ensure the watch is properly fitted and the water lock mode is activated before entering the pool to prevent accidental screen interactions and to preserve device functionality during swimming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you swim with the Apple Watch Series 8?
Yes, the Apple Watch Series 8 is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming in pools and open water.

Is the Apple Watch Series 8 suitable for tracking swimming workouts?
Absolutely. The Apple Watch Series 8 includes a dedicated swimming workout mode that tracks distance, laps, and calories burned.

Does water affect the functionality of the Apple Watch Series 8?
No. The watch is designed to resist water ingress during swimming, showering, and rain, but it is recommended to rinse it with fresh water after exposure to saltwater or chlorine.

Can I wear the Apple Watch Series 8 while diving or snorkeling?
The Apple Watch Series 8 is not designed for scuba diving or high-velocity water sports. It is best used for surface swimming and shallow water activities.

How does the Apple Watch Series 8 handle water ejection after swimming?
The watch features a water ejection mode that uses sound vibrations to clear water from the speaker after swimming or exposure to water.

Will swimming with the Apple Watch Series 8 void the warranty?
No, swimming with the watch does not void the warranty as long as the water resistance guidelines are followed and the device is not damaged by misuse.
The Apple Watch Series 8 is designed with water resistance capabilities that make it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities. With a water resistance rating of 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010, the device can be safely used in pools, open water, and shallow snorkeling. However, it is not intended for high-velocity water sports or deep diving, which could exceed its water resistance limits.

Users can confidently wear the Apple Watch 8 while swimming, as it also features a swim tracking mode that accurately monitors metrics such as distance, laps, and stroke type. Additionally, the watch includes a water lock feature that prevents accidental screen taps caused by water and helps eject water from the speaker after swimming sessions. These functionalities enhance the overall user experience and ensure durability during aquatic activities.

In summary, the Apple Watch Series 8 offers robust water resistance and swim-tracking features that make it an excellent companion for swimmers. Users should still exercise caution by avoiding exposure to high-pressure water environments and ensuring the watch is properly maintained after swimming to preserve its water resistance over time.

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.