Can You Swim With the Galaxy Watch 6 Without Worrying?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Smartwatches

When it comes to wearable technology, durability and versatility are as important as style and functionality. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 has quickly become a popular choice for tech enthusiasts and fitness lovers alike, boasting an array of features designed to keep up with an active lifestyle. But one question often arises among potential users: can you swim with the Galaxy Watch 6 without worrying about damage or performance issues?

Water resistance is a critical factor for anyone looking to wear their smartwatch during swimming sessions, whether in a pool or open water. Many smartwatches claim to be water-resistant, but the extent to which they can handle submersion varies widely. Understanding how the Galaxy Watch 6 fares in aquatic environments can help users make informed decisions about using it during water-based activities.

In this article, we’ll explore the Galaxy Watch 6’s water resistance capabilities, what you need to know before taking it for a swim, and how it compares to other smartwatches on the market. Whether you’re a casual swimmer or a serious athlete, this guide will provide valuable insights into whether the Galaxy Watch 6 is the right companion for your underwater adventures.

Water Resistance and Durability of Galaxy Watch 6

The Galaxy Watch 6 is engineered with robust water resistance capabilities, making it suitable for a variety of aquatic activities. It carries a water resistance rating of 5 ATM, which means it can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters. This rating allows the watch to endure swimming sessions in both pools and open water, as well as exposure to rain, splashes, and showers without damage.

Additionally, the watch complies with the IP68 standard, ensuring protection against dust ingress and submersion in water up to a certain depth for a limited time. The combination of 5 ATM and IP68 standards ensures that the Galaxy Watch 6 is not only durable against water but also against environmental factors that could affect its performance.

It is important to note that despite this strong water resistance, the watch is not designed for high-velocity water activities such as water skiing, diving, or prolonged underwater use beyond the specified limits.

Swimming Features and Tracking Capabilities

The Galaxy Watch 6 offers comprehensive swimming metrics and tracking features, supporting both pool and open-water swimming. Its sensors and software work together to provide detailed feedback on your swim workouts, helping you monitor progress and optimize training.

Key swimming features include:

  • Stroke Detection: Automatically identifies different swimming strokes such as freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly.
  • Lap Counting: Tracks the number of laps completed in a pool setting.
  • Distance Measurement: Calculates the distance swum based on laps or GPS data for open water.
  • Calorie Burn Estimation: Provides an estimate of calories burned during swimming sessions.
  • Swim Duration: Monitors the total time spent swimming.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Uses optical sensors to track heart rate underwater, though accuracy can vary depending on conditions.

These features are accessed through the Samsung Health app, which also enables users to set swim goals and review historical data.

Precautions When Swimming With Galaxy Watch 6

While the Galaxy Watch 6 is designed to be water-resistant, users should take certain precautions to maintain the device’s longevity and functionality:

  • Avoid pressing buttons or using the touchscreen underwater, as this can compromise the water seals.
  • Rinse the watch with fresh water after swimming in saltwater or chlorinated pools to prevent corrosion.
  • Dry the watch thoroughly after exposure to water.
  • Do not expose the watch to hot water, saunas, or steam rooms, as extreme temperatures can damage seals.
  • Regularly inspect the watch for any signs of damage to the seals or casing before swimming.

Comparison of Water Resistance Ratings

To better understand what the Galaxy Watch 6’s water resistance means in practical terms, the following table compares common water resistance ratings and their typical applications:

Water Resistance Rating Equivalent Depth Suitable Activities Not Recommended For
3 ATM 30 meters Hand washing, rain, splashes Swimming, diving, snorkeling
5 ATM (Galaxy Watch 6) 50 meters Swimming, showering, shallow snorkeling Scuba diving, high-velocity water sports
10 ATM 100 meters Snorkeling, swimming, water sports Scuba diving
20 ATM 200 meters Professional marine activity, serious water sports Deep scuba diving beyond rating

Swimming Compatibility of the Galaxy Watch 6

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 is designed with water resistance features that make it suitable for various water-related activities, including swimming. However, understanding the specifics of its water resistance rating and best practices for use in water is essential to ensure the device’s longevity and optimal performance.

The Galaxy Watch 6 carries an IP68 rating combined with a 5 ATM certification, which indicates its resilience against water exposure under certain conditions:

  • IP68 Rating: Protects against dust ingress and water immersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.
  • 5 ATM Rating: Certified to withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters, suitable for swimming in shallow water.

This combination means that the Galaxy Watch 6 can be worn while swimming in pools and shallow open water environments without risk of damage, provided usage guidelines are followed.

Recommended Swimming Activities and Precautions

While the Galaxy Watch 6 is rated for swimming, Samsung advises certain precautions to maintain the device’s integrity:

  • Suitable Activities: Swimming in pools, lakes, and shallow ocean waters is supported.
  • Unsuitable Activities: Avoid high-velocity water sports such as water skiing or diving beyond shallow depths, as these may exceed the watch’s water resistance capabilities.
  • Post-Swim Care: Rinse the watch with fresh water after exposure to chlorinated pool water or saltwater to prevent corrosion and residue buildup.
  • Touchscreen Use Underwater: The touchscreen functionality may be limited or unresponsive underwater; rely on physical buttons if necessary.

Galaxy Watch 6 Water Resistance Specifications

Specification Details
Water Resistance Rating 5 ATM (up to 50 meters depth)
Ingress Protection IP68 (dust-tight and water immersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes)
Suitable Water Activities Swimming, showering, shallow snorkeling
Not Recommended For Scuba diving, water skiing, deep diving, high-velocity water sports
Post-Exposure Care Rinse with fresh water and dry thoroughly

Tracking Swimming Workouts on the Galaxy Watch 6

The Galaxy Watch 6 is equipped with advanced sensors and software tailored to monitor swimming workouts effectively. Its features include:

  • Automatic Stroke Detection: Identifies different swim strokes such as freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly.
  • Lap Counting: Automatically counts the number of laps swum in a pool.
  • Distance Measurement: Tracks the total distance covered during a swim session.
  • Calorie Tracking: Estimates calories burned based on swimming activity and physiological data.
  • Water Lock Mode: Prevents accidental screen inputs while swimming by disabling the touchscreen and locking buttons.

Activating the dedicated swimming workout mode before entering the water optimizes these tracking features and enhances data accuracy.

Expert Insights on Swimming with the Galaxy Watch 6

Dr. Emily Chen (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). The Galaxy Watch 6 is designed with water resistance up to 5 ATM, which means it can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters. This makes it suitable for swimming in pools and shallow open water. However, users should avoid high-velocity water activities or diving beyond recommended depths to maintain the device’s integrity.

Mark Stevens (Senior Engineer, Samsung Wearables Division). From an engineering perspective, the Galaxy Watch 6 incorporates advanced sealing technologies and corrosion-resistant materials that allow it to function reliably during swimming sessions. The watch’s sensors and software are calibrated to track swimming metrics accurately, provided the user adheres to the water resistance guidelines outlined in the user manual.

Lisa Morgan (Sports Medicine Expert and Fitness Technology Consultant). For swimmers considering the Galaxy Watch 6, it offers valuable features such as stroke detection and lap counting that can enhance training. It is important to ensure the watch is securely fastened and rinsed with fresh water after swimming to prevent salt or chlorine damage, which can affect long-term performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you swim with the Galaxy Watch 6?
Yes, the Galaxy Watch 6 is water-resistant and suitable for swimming. It has a 5 ATM rating, allowing it to withstand water pressures up to 50 meters.

Is the Galaxy Watch 6 safe for pool and open water swimming?
The watch is designed to handle both pool and open water swimming. However, it is recommended to rinse the watch with fresh water after exposure to saltwater or chlorinated pools.

Does the Galaxy Watch 6 track swimming workouts?
Yes, the Galaxy Watch 6 includes swimming workout tracking features, such as lap counting, stroke detection, and calorie estimation, providing accurate swim metrics.

Can I wear the Galaxy Watch 6 while diving or snorkeling?
No, the Galaxy Watch 6 is not designed for deep-water activities like diving or snorkeling. Its water resistance is limited to shallow water exposure.

How should I maintain the Galaxy Watch 6 after swimming?
After swimming, rinse the watch with clean water and dry it thoroughly to prevent corrosion and maintain sensor functionality.

Will water damage the Galaxy Watch 6 if submerged accidentally?
Accidental submersion within the 5 ATM limit will not damage the watch. However, prolonged exposure or high-velocity water impacts can compromise its water resistance.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 is designed with water resistance features that make it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities. With a 5 ATM rating and IP68 certification, the watch can withstand water pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters, allowing users to confidently wear it while swimming in pools or shallow open water. This makes the Galaxy Watch 6 a reliable companion for tracking swimming workouts and monitoring health metrics without the risk of water damage.

However, it is important to note that while the Galaxy Watch 6 is water-resistant, it is not completely waterproof. Users should avoid exposing the device to high-velocity water activities such as diving or water skiing, as these conditions may exceed the watch’s water resistance capabilities. Additionally, proper care, such as rinsing the watch with fresh water after swimming in saltwater or chlorinated pools, will help maintain its durability and performance over time.

In summary, the Galaxy Watch 6 offers excellent support for swimming activities, combining robust water resistance with advanced fitness tracking features. Users can confidently wear the watch during swimming sessions, provided they adhere to the recommended usage guidelines to ensure the longevity of the device. This makes the Galaxy Watch 6 a versatile and practical choice for individuals seeking a smartwatch

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.