Is Your Apple Watch Waterproof? The answer might surprise you. Apple Watches are often described as water-resistant rather than truly waterproof. Models like the Apple Watch Series 2 and newer versions can handle swimming and shallow-water activities,
but they aren’t designed for deep-water diving or high-speed water sports. The water resistance rating varies by model, and even though your watch might handle splashes or brief immersions, Apple advises caution. Over time, water resistance can diminish due to wear and tear. So, while you can safely wear it for everyday activities, it’s best to avoid prolonged or deep water exposure to keep your device functioning optimally
Apple Watch Water Resistance: What Does It Mean?
The Apple Watch is water-resistant, not waterproof. These two terms are often confused, but they mean different things in technical terms. Water-resistant means that the device can withstand exposure to water to a certain extent, while waterproof implies that no water will ever penetrate the device.
Apple Watch Models and Water Resistance Ratings
Apple has made continuous improvements in the water resistance of the Apple Watch, with each new model offering better protection than the previous versions. Here’s a breakdown:
| Apple Watch Model | Water Resistance Rating |
|---|---|
| Series 1 and Earlier | Splash resistant (Not suitable for swimming) |
| Series 2 and Later | Water-resistant up to 50 meters (WR50) |
| Apple Watch Ultra | Water-resistant up to 100 meters (WR100) |
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- Series 2 and later models, including the Apple Watch SE, are water-resistant up to 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010. This makes them suitable for shallow-water activities like swimming in pools or the ocean.
- The Apple Watch Ultra offers even more durability, rated up to 100 meters, making it ideal for more rugged water-based activities such as snorkeling and recreational scuba diving (but not for deeper dives).
Understanding Water Resistance Ratings
The water resistance rating on your Apple Watch isn’t a blanket license to submerge it in any kind of water. The WR50 rating means it can handle exposure to water up to a depth of 50 meters under certain conditions, but it’s not designed for high-speed water sports or deep diving. Similarly, the WR100 rating of the Apple Watch Ultra allows for more extreme uses but still has its limits.
Can You Swim with an Apple Watch?
The short answer is: Yes, but it depends on the model.
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- Apple Watch Series 2 and Later: These models are designed to be water-resistant up to 50 meters, making them suitable for swimming. You can wear your watch while swimming in a pool or the ocean, but avoid high-speed water activities like jet skiing or waterskiing, where the impact of water pressure could exceed the watch’s resistance limits.
- Apple Watch Ultra: This model has a higher resistance of up to 100 meters and is better suited for shallow-water activities and recreational scuba diving up to 40 meters. It’s perfect for snorkeling or swimming in more intense conditions.
Types of Water Exposure to Avoid
Even though the Apple Watch is designed to handle water, there are specific types of exposure you should avoid:
- High-Velocity Water: Activities like jet skiing or water skiing can create high water pressure that may damage your watch.
- Soapy or Chemical-Laden Water: While showering with an Apple Watch isn’t harmful, exposing it to soaps, shampoos, or chemicals like chlorine and saltwater for extended periods can degrade its seals over time.
- Extreme Water Temperatures: Avoid exposing the watch to hot tubs or saunas, as extreme heat may compromise the water resistance.
What is Water Lock and How Does It Work?
One of the most important features for swimming and water-based activities is the Water Lock feature, introduced in Series 2 and later models.
What is Water Lock?
Water Lock prevents accidental taps and inputs when your Apple Watch is exposed to water, like during a swim or in the shower. When activated, it locks the touchscreen, so the water doesn’t interfere with functionality.
- How to Enable Water Lock: Swipe up on the Control Center on your watch and tap the Water Lock icon (a droplet). Your watch will automatically engage Water Lock if it detects water exposure during a swim workout.
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How to Eject Water After a Swim
After using the Water Lock feature, your Apple Watch can eject any water that may have entered the speaker or other openings. Here’s how to do it:
- Turn the Digital Crown to unlock the screen and eject water. As you rotate the crown, the watch emits a sound designed to push water out of the speaker grill.
This process works seamlessly and ensures that your device is safe from any internal moisture buildup.
Best Practices for Using Apple Watch in Water
Even though your Apple Watch is water-resistant, proper care is essential to maintain its integrity over time. Here are a few useful tips before, during, and after swimming or exposing your watch to water:
Before Swimming
- Check Water Resistance Settings: Always make sure your Apple Watch is rated for water resistance before swimming. If you’re using Series 2 or later, you’re good to go. For older models, avoid submerging them in water.
- Activate Water Lock: As a precaution, enable Water Lock to prevent accidental taps.
- Remove Non-Water Resistant Bands: Leather or stainless steel bands can degrade or corrode in water. Switch to a fluoroelastomer band like the sport band for swimming.
While Swimming
- Monitor Swim Metrics: The Apple Watch offers great swim tracking, measuring your strokes, heart rate, and distance. Keep an eye on these metrics while you swim.
- Avoid Deep Diving: Stick to shallow-water activities like pool swimming or casual snorkeling to avoid exposing your watch to high pressures.
After Swimming
- Rinse with Fresh Water: After swimming, especially in saltwater or chlorinated pools, rinse your Apple Watch with fresh water to prevent any corrosion or residue build-up.
- Dry the Watch Thoroughly: Use a soft cloth to dry your watch and ensure no water remains in the crevices.
How to Maintain Your Apple Watch’s Water Resistance
Water resistance is not a permanent condition, and over time, the seals and adhesives used to keep your watch water-resistant can wear out. Here’s how to keep it in top shape:
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- Avoid Dropping or Hitting the Watch: Physical damage can compromise the seals.
- Replace the Watch’s Gaskets: Over time, the seals that protect the Apple Watch can degrade. If you notice a decline in performance or water resistance, visit an authorized Apple repair center for an inspection.
- Don’t Open the Watch: Opening the watch yourself can compromise its water resistance, so always seek professional help for repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Apple Watch Really Waterproof?
No, the Apple Watch is water-resistant, not waterproof. This means it can handle certain levels of water exposure, but not all. Stick to activities like swimming and shallow-water sports, and avoid high-impact water or deep diving.
Do I Need to Enable Water Lock Before Swimming?
Yes, it’s a good practice to enable Water Lock before swimming. It prevents the touchscreen from being activated by water and also helps in ejecting water after your swim.
Can I Wear My Apple Watch in the Shower or Bath?
Yes, but it’s important to avoid soaps, shampoos, and other chemicals that can damage the seals of the watch over time. Rinse your watch with fresh water afterward to avoid buildup.
How Can I Eject Water from My Apple Watch?
After exposure to water, activate Water Lock and turn the Digital Crown to eject water from the speaker. This ensures that no moisture remains trapped inside.
Does the Apple Watch water lock actually work?
Yes, Apple Watch water lock works by disabling the touchscreen to prevent accidental taps in water. Afterward, it ejects water from the speaker with sound vibrations. It’s effective for most everyday water exposure like swimming or showering.
What happens if you don’t turn on the water lock?
If you don’t turn on the water lock, your Apple Watch may still function normally in water since it’s water-resistant. However, without water lock, water droplets can accidentally activate the touchscreen, causing unwanted taps. Also, any water that gets into the speaker may not be ejected as efficiently, potentially muffling sound until it dries out.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Apple Watch is not fully waterproof, it offers excellent water resistance for everyday activities. Most recent models (Series 2 and newer) are safe for swimming and shallow water sports but should not be used in high-velocity water activities like diving or waterskiing. Always check your model’s specifications to ensure it aligns with your activities, and remember to rinse your watch with fresh water if exposed to saltwater or chemicals. Proper care will help maintain its water resistance over time.
Anna Zoee is an experienced blogger at Macs Wind, where she shares her expertise on all things Mac-related. With a passion for technology and a knack for simplifying complex topics, Anna delivers insightful content that helps readers get the most out of their devices. Her years of blogging experience make her a trusted voice in the tech community.
