Maybe you already have an Apple Watch or you’re looking to get one, but you’re not sure if it’ll be safe when you’re swimming. Are all Apple Watches water-resistant? What about swimming in the pool, will chlorine damage it?
In this article, you will read Apple’s official stance on the water-resistance of their Apple Watches, and tips and tricks to make the most of keeping your watch perfect and pristine while swimming.
Article Contents
Is Swimming OK with an Apple Watch?
- Apple does not cover water damage under warranty and does not say their watches are waterproof.
- Series 1 is water-resistant for 30 minutes in up to 1m (3.3 feet) of water but not swim-proof.
- Series 2-8 are water-resistant up to 50 meters (164 feet) and are swim-proof.
- The Apple Ultra is suitable for swimming to 100 m (328 feet) and diving to 40 m (131 feet)
It’s important to clarify the differences between waterproof, water-resistant, and swim-proof. Most people use them interchangeably (myself included) but there is a slight but crucial difference.
Waterproof completely protects the watch from water.
Water-resistance makes it very difficult for water to penetrate, but it still can. Swim-proof protects the watch from full submergence in the bath, sea, or pool at shallow depths.
So what is Apple’s stance on their watches?
| Apple Watch | Waterproof | Water-resistant | Swimproof |
| Series 1 | No | Up to 30 minutes in 1 meter (3.3 feet) of water | No |
| Series 2 | No | Up to 50 meters (164 feet) of water | No |
| Series 3 | No | Up to 50 meters (164 feet) of water | Yes |
| Series 4 | No | Up to 50 meters (164 feet) of water | Yes |
| Series 5 | No | Up to 50 meters (164 feet) of water | Yes |
| Series 6 | No | Up to 50 meters (164 feet) of water | Yes |
| SE | No | Up to 50 meters (164 feet) of water | Yes |
| Series 7 | No | Up to 50 meters (164 feet) of water | Yes |
| Series 8 | No | Up to 50 meters (164 feet) of water | Yes |
| Ultra | No | Up to 100 m (328 feet) of water. Diving to 40 m (131 feet) of water. | Yes |
As you can see, all Apple Watches aren’t waterproof. After all, it is a difficult thing to guarantee for any product from any company.
In fact, it’s a very similar situation for Fitbit and Samsung watches. If you’re wondering if you can swim with them, check out these articles:
Can I Swim with a Fitbit Watch? Will It Damage It?
Can I Swim With Samsung Watch? Is It Waterproof?
Apple Watch Ultra
The Apple Ultra is the highest spec Apple watch model yet. Finally Apple released a model that is suitable for swimming and diving.
The Apple Watch Ultra, is suitable for swimming and under ISO standard 22810, has a water resistance rating of 100 meters. It’s also rated as suitable for high-speed water sports and recreational diving to 40m, by Apple themselves.
For those of you who like to swim, dive and enjoy the water, then the Ultra has the best ratings for water resistance. All other Apple watches are rated as water resistant but not suitable for diving.
I’ve found that many serious divers feel much safer sticking with a dive computer from companies with a long established history of making products like this. In addition, if you do want to use it as a dive computer, you must subscribe to the Oceanic+ App to unlock the dive features. It’s currently $10 p/mth.
For those that want the latest waterproof Apple watch, it’s likely that there will be an Apple Watch Ultra 2 at some point. Perhaps September 2023.
Apple Watch Series 8
Apple Watch Series 8 was released in September 2022, and has a few extra features, that being a more powerful gyroscope and accelerometer. And low power mode. It has the same water rating as the series 7, series 6, SE and series 3 watches.
The Apple Watch Series 8 is rated as being water resistant to 50m (164 feet) by Apple. It’s suitable for swimming in the pool or ocean, surfing, but not scuba diving, free diving or high-speed watersports.
From my research, I can see some users have done laps with the series 8 without issue. One would expect it to be OK since it does have a Swim Lap mode.
I also came across one case of a series 8 dying after during swimming. Apple did replace the watch for the user but not before having to send away it for assessment first.
- Suitable for swimming, surfing and other low-speed watersports
- 50 meters water resistance
- Blood oxygen, ECG & other sensors
Apple Watch Series 7
The series 7 watch was released in October 2021, and was the most advanced Apple Watch at the time. That being said, it has the same water limitations as the S6 and, some other older models like the S5, S4 and S3.
The series 7 Apple Watch is rated as being swimproof by Apple. And it is water-resistant to a depth of 50 m (164 feet). Apple advises it shouldn’t be used for fast-moving water sports.
When we originally wrote this article, it was brand new to the market and there wasn’t much real-life activity on its ability to function in pools. But now, more than a year on, I’ve done some further research and there are many people that swim regularly (3-4 times per week) for 30-60 mins at a time that haven’t had issues.
If you’re swimming in salt water or chlorine, it’s still important to rinse the watch off after using it.
And another tip is to use a velcro watch band. The silicon band has a greater chance of slipping off when wet.
- Tracks fitness, blood oxygen & ECG
- Water-resistant to a depth of 50 m (164 feet)
- Suitable for swimming, snorkeling, surfing
Is Apple Watch Series 6 & SE Waterproof?
These two models were released together in 2020. The SE is the more affordable of the two as it has fewer features and runs off of the Series 5 processors. It has the same water limitations as the S5, but improvements in technology have helped improve its durability in water.
Apple Watch Series 6 & SE are not waterproof, but they are rated as being water-resistant to 50 m (164 feet). They are also rated by Apple as swimproof. Which means you can use the watch for swimming. They are limited to using for low-speed water activities such as swimming and shouldn’t be used for water skiing, jet skiing or wakeboarding.
Although most comments about swimming with a Series 6 or SE have been good, a few Apple lovers have noticed their S6/SE not working after the first swim, causing irreparable damage and high cost in replacements.
The SE continues to be sold as new on Apple, but the Series 6 has been discontinued following the release of the newest Apple Watch member, Series 7.
- Water resistant to 50m & rated swimproof
- GPS & other movement metrics
- Great for low-speed water activities like swimming & surfing
Is Apple Watch Series 5 Waterproof?
Released in 2019, the S5 is more technologically advanced than the S4. When it comes to the water-resistance and swim-proof capabilities, it mirrors the Series 4.
The Apple Watch Series 5 is swim-proof. Like the series 4, 3, and 2 watches, it is water-resistant up to 50 m (164 feet), as rated by apple. Apple advises avoiding high-velocity sports such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, water skiing.
Our research shows that when S5 wearers have had issues, it’s generally after swimming in saltwater, sea or saltwater pools. Either prematurely degrading the seal or getting salt ions stuck in the digital crown. It is loved by one customer for accurately measuring lane distance and lap counts, though.
The series 5 watch has also been discontinued by Apple, but second-hand models are still available for purchase.
Is Apple Watch Series 4 Waterproof?
Introduced in 2018, the Apple Watch Series 4 is the newer, more improved model of the S3.
The Apple Watch Series 4 is swim-proof. Like the series 3 and 2 watches, Apple rates it as water-resistant up to 50 m (164 feet). It shouldn’t be used for water skiing or other high-speed water sports, like jet skiing or wakeboarding.
Spending hours in the pool and sea while wearing theirs has had no effect for a few S4 users. Unfortunately, for one, they lost their S4 while surfing because of a broken band.
Again, it has been discontinued by Apple but refurbished models are still being sold and are regularly updated.
Is Apple Watch Series 3 Waterproof?
Series 3 was released in 2017 with better improvements in technology. It has the same water resistance as the S2 and the same caveat as well.
The Apple watch series 3 is rated by Apple for being water-resistant up to 50 meters (164 feet). Like the series 2 Apple watch, Apple says it should only be used up to a 50-meter (164 feet) depth and shouldn’t be used for water activities like water skiing or even surfing. Apple rates it as swimproof.
Even though it is designed for pool use (swimming workout function), a few Series 3 fans saw their watches die after their inaugural swims, setting them back a couple of hundred dollars in repairs.
Apple continues to sell new models of the S3 in a GPS-only capacity. There is no cellular connectivity with them. You can still purchase fully capable second-hand S3 models and they most likely will be supported until the end of 2022.
Is Apple Watch Series 2 Waterproof?
Series 2 hit the scene in 2016 and had greater improvements to its features.
The Apple Watch Series 2 is water-resistant up to 50 meters (164 feet). Apple does caution that it should only be used within a 50 meter (164 feet) depth and not used at lower depths or high-velocity water activities like water skiing. Therefore, it’s not considered to be swim-proof.
However, a long-term user of the Series 2 has spent most of their summer days in the pool with no issues, which included fully submerging the watch as well as playing water games (splash-resistant) and cannon-balling.
Apple have also discontinued selling new S2 models, but currently, send regular updates to all S2 models. They support updates for most of their products for 5 years post-release, so the updates may stop when the year ends.
Is Apple Watch Series 1 Waterproof?
The S1 is one of the first smartwatches to break into the market back in 2015. Now, it is quite a simplistic model compared to its newer counterparts. The features of the S1 are quite limited today.
The Apple watch series 1 is not waterproof, and out of all the Apple watches, has the most limited capabilities when it comes to water. It’s rated at 1 m (3.3 feet) depth of water for up to 30 minutes.
Despite that, one scuba-diving S1 wearer would regularly dive to 30-35ft depth with no issues and only parted ways with it when a loosened strap meant it fell off in the water.
Apple has discontinued selling new models of Series 1 and no longer supports system updates to it.
Water Resistance Ratings & Apple Watches
One thing to note is that when we talk about water resistance ratings, it’s something that can change over time.
Apple states:
“Water resistance is not a permanent condition and can diminish over time.”
Overtime, rubber seals wear out and watch parts don’t fit as tight as they used to. So naturally, a water proof or resistance rating cannot be guaranteed forever.
Does the Apple Watch Warranty Cover Water Damage?
Water damage isn’t covered under any Apple Watch warranty. Regardless of if you have an S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6, SE, S7, S8 or Apple Watch Ultra, none of the models are covered by Apple’s warranty for water damage.
Apple does not state their watches are waterproof. Most people don’t have a problems but if you do a bit of research, you’ll find there isn’t a shortage of Apple watches dying after swimming or getting them wet.
Will Pool Chlorine Damage Apple Watches?
Now that you understand what you’re dealing with when it comes to each model, it’s time to consider if swimming in your chlorinated pool is going to damage your watch.
It is safe to swim with Apple Watch models Series 3 to 7 and SE in a chlorinated swimming pool. Apple class these watches as swim proof and safe for swimming. Although they do not provide warranty cover for water damage.
Although Apple Watches aren’t classed as waterproof, they are extremely well protected from water. Regardless of if it’s water from the sea, lake, or chlorinated pool water.
As for any potential damage from chlorine to your watch, the chances are slim as long as you take care of the watch properly after your swim. For those of you who wear glasses, you may also want to know if chlorine will damage glasses.
The watch itself holds up well in pool water if you’re mindful to clean it once you’ve finished swimming with it. One S3 wearer is a lifeguard, and they haven’t had any issues with theirs since purchasing.
Another S2 wearer has noted that there is some degradation around the watch seal after years of hot tub water exposure. Maintaining the integrity of your watch does come down to post-swim care.
Where the damage can become a big issue is with the wristband you decide to use. Metal bands, like stainless steel, can be damaged much more easily from prolonged exposure to chlorinated water. Switching to a rubber band or a sport band while using the watch in the pool is the perfect solution to keeping your watch safe.
Will Saltwater Pool Systems Damage Apple Watches?
Although salt-water systems aren’t as common as chlorinated pools, the difference in water composition is something to take note of, especially if you’re considering swimming in one with an Apple Watch.
The big question is, is it OK to wear your Apple Watch in a saltwater pool?
Apple Watches can be worn in saltwater swimming pools for all models except the Series 1 and Series 2 watches as they are not rated as being swimproof. Saltwater can however damage the rubber parts and the metal parts of the watch, so it’s essential to rinse the watch in freshwater after swimming.
Saltwater has the potential to cause more damage than chlorinated pools. In saltwater, there are microscopic salt particles that can scratch and wear down your watch. Especially if you forget to clean it after a dip in the pool. Dried salt solidifies and increases the scratching potential of the particles.
Even though Apple Watches have reinforced glass, this glass isn’t impervious to being worn down. Plus, salt and metal do not work together well. The encroaching rust on your band is another good reason to look into getting saltwater-friendly bands.
Curious to see how you treat your pool without chlorine? Check out these chlorine alternatives!
What To Do If I Swim with An Apple Watch?
Excluding the Series 1, all the Apple Watches released so far have great water-resistant capabilities. So this is something you don’t need to particularly concern yourself with when you decide to go for a swim.
From Series 2 and newer, Apple included a feature called ‘water lock’ to their watches. When you start a swimming workout, your watch will automatically lock itself to prevent any accidental taps. Use the Digital Crown (dial on the side) to unlock it when you’re finished and wipe off excess water. Easy as Apple pie.
The attachments and the post-swim care are what you need to be concerned with. To get the most out of your Apple Watch while swimming, it’s best to invest in a few different types of bands including specially made for sport and rubber-based ones.
When it comes to wiping down the watch face and bands, make sure that what you’re choosing to clean with is made for screens and isn’t abrasive. Some cleaning kits and wipes can be more abrasive than you might think. You could cause more damage to your watch than the pool water could.
Cleaning an Apple Watch After Swimming
It might seem like common sense on how to clean your watch after swimming in a pool, but there can be hidden dangers if you don’t use the right methods.
- If you’re using wipes or a cleaning spray, make sure to thoroughly wipe/spray down the watchface, buckle and straps first. If you’re rinsing the water, ensure it’s fresh water.
- When you’re drying your watch, using a specifically designed cloth for screens or glasses is ideal. Some cloths or towels contain microscopic dirt or fibres which can scrap away at the glass.
- It’s vital to dry your watch properly, especially if it’s after coming out of a saltwater pool. If you leave it to air dry, some untouched dirt/salt particles can dry and lodge in small gaps, increasing the chances of wear and tear of the band and watch itself.
What Can I Use To Swim with Apple Watches?
As you’ve seen, Apple Watches do a great job of holding up against pool water, whether it’s chlorine or a saltwater-based. The tricky part is deciding what alternative bands to use. And what specific cleaning kits and screen protectors you can use to truly protect your Apple Watch, no matter the model.
Alternative Wrist Band
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This sports band is rated 4.3 stars on Amazon of which 70% of customers awarded it 5 stars. It is compatible with Apple Watch Series 1-7, and the SE as well. Because the straps are made of pure silicon resin and elastic rubber, they are durable, soft, and most importantly, waterproof, ocean proof and swimming pool proof.
Some customers have had issues with the color they chose. They seem to differ quite a bit from the pictures. Other buyers have also found the band to be too thin to support the watch, or too long to comfortably fit their wrists.
Cleaning Kit for an Apple Watch
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This cleaning kit is rated 4.7 with 82% of reviewers giving it 5 stars. Although it isn’t the most highly rated (249 reviews), this kit is designed to work on Apple products. Other cleaners can strip off the oleophobic (oil repellent) coating of Apple screens whereas this kit doesn’t.
The main reason for customers giving poor reviews on this is because of the packaging. A few of the packages have caused the screw to loosen on the bottle, causing the liquid to leak and soak the entire package.
Screen Protector for an Apple Watch
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This 6 pack screen protector bundle is rated 4.2 stars out of over 26,000 reviews. It’s designed to protect Apple Watch Series 4-6 (including SE) as well as work for the new Series 7 model too. It’s only 0.1mm thick so it won’t interfere with the touch sensitivity, and it provides maximum coverage.
However, some buyers have noticed that their protector doesn’t last very long or comes away from the watch easily (one reviewer went through 3 protectors in a week). Others have found difficulty in being able to apply the protector easily in the first place.
Final Thoughts
Unless you have or are opting for the Series 1, whatever model you choose to buy or upgrade to will be okay in your pool (as long as you clean the watch afterward). It can be difficult to decipher what a company means when they use the terms waterproof, water-resistant, and swim-proof interchangeably, so hopefully this has helped clear things up.
If you want get the best out of swimming with your Apple Watch, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to invest in some alternate metal-free bands, protectors, and Apple specific cleaning wipes/kits.
But be happy in the knowledge that you can safely swim in your pool while wearing your Apple Watch come day or night.
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