Is Your Apple Watch Waterproof? Swim, Protect & Stay Safe!

If you've ever wondered if your Apple Watch would get affected if you use it in water activities then you have come to the right place.

Sit back and relax as we examine this topic. It promises to be informative.

Is your Apple Watch waterproof? What models can handle water?

Water Resistance vs. Waterproof: Official standards explained

First, let’s get one thing straight, no Apple Watch is technically waterproof. Apple rather categorize them as water-resistant based on international standards.

Most times you have come across things like IPX7, EN13319, or ISO 22810:2010. Well, these are not just fancy labels. These are just indicating that your watch can survive a certain submersion level in water. For instance, an IPX7-labelled watch can stay up to 30 minutes in water. While those with ISO standards can stay submerged in water that is about 50 meters deep. That is to say, it’s safe for activities like swimming.

Then there’s Apple Watch Ultra, which takes the game a notch higher with 100-meter resistance and compliance with EN13319, the diving standard. Still, we can't say that you can use it for scuba diving beyond its specified depth. So while it can handle splashes and swims, don’t treat it like a dive computer yet.

Can I swim with my Apple Watch? Model-by-model guide

If you’ve ever asked, “Can I swim with my Apple Watch?” then below is your model-by-model breakdown:

• Series 1 and earlier: This is only splash-resistant. Don’t try to swim with these. Else, it's going to be stories that touch.

• Series 2 through SE (2nd Gen): This is safe for pool and shallow water swimming. So, feel free to have this on when you want to swim.

• Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2: This is designed for open water and recreational dives. So, you can be guaranteed of a safe device after having a swim.

You may want to avoid deep water like jet skiing or diving into the pool, as it may cause cracks on the seals even on swim-safe models.

Showering, Surfing & Saunas: What’s Safe?

You can shower with most Apple Watches from Series 2 and older models but don't dare with hot water because it is risky. The heat can weaken adhesives and seals over time thus reducing water resistance. Let’s say, surfing is okay on Ultra models, but for saunas and steam rooms? They are no-go areas. High temperatures can twist seals and cause fog on your screen.

Why Leather Bands fail & best bands for saltwater

While the Apple Watch itself can handle water, the truth is that not all bands can. Leather and metal bands don’t mix well with water. Besides salt and heat will make them age quickly.

Instead, you can go for the bands used in Apple’s sport band or nylon bands. These are more resistant to water, salt, and even wear. Good news if you are a diver or ocean swimmer— these bands last longer and dry quickly.

Water Lock Mode: How to use it correctly for drainage

Before you jump in, activate ‘Water Lock Mode’ from the Control Center. This helps to lock the screen to prevent accidental touches. Once you’re done swimming, press and hold the Digital Crown. The watch will give a sound to eject water from the speaker space. It’s quick, smart, and prevents long-term water damage.

Apple Watch Ultra 3: Will it support deeper dives in 2025?

From the recent Apple Watch rumors, you can observe that the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 3 may push dive features even further. Sources suggest improvements on the EN13319 certification and dive depths beyond 50 meters, which is quite similar to Pro dive watches.

If Apple succeeds here, it could open the Ultra 3 to recreational scuba use, making it one of the largest consumer watches yet. We expect that watchOS 11 will bring better dive tracking and depth analytics.

Apple Watch 2025 Rumors: Waterproof tech upgrades?

Apple Watch Ultra 3 Leaks: Satellite SOS & 5G RedCap

Leaks suggest the Apple Watch Ultra 3 may include satellite SOS via Globalstar and 5G RedCap connectivity which is a low-power 5G alternative designed for watches. These features could be vital for swimmers and adventurers in remote areas.

The 2025 models may also introduce non-numeric blood pressure alerts to flag hypertension trends, especially after exercise. Good news for current users: the Ultra 3 is expected to keep the 49mm size, so most Ultra 2 cases and screen protectors should still fit

Essential protection: Cases & screen protectors for water activities

Top 5 Apple Watch cases for swimmers and divers

Water-resistance can wear off over time. That’s why you need a reliable Apple Watch case. Let’s compare five popular choices:

Of all these, the Apple Watch Ultra case from ESR features a dive-lock design, to make sure your seals stay tight under pressure. It’s ideal for swimmers and snorkelers.

Do screen protectors affect water resistance? Clarity vs. Durability

There are lots of questions on whether Apple Watch screen protectors mess with water resistance. Well, the short answer is no, that's if you choose right.

Tempered glass protectors offer better impact resistance, but they can crack under pressure. Hydrogel films, on the other hand, flex and hold better in underwater conditions but scratch more easily.

Testing shows that both are safe for swim use if you position on the screen correctly and keep it clean. The choice is yours to decide based on what matters more to you— clarity or durability.

Post-Swim care: Cleaning saltwater and Chlorine damage prevention

Salt and chlorine are harsh. So, after every swim, do this:

• Rinse the watch under clean, fresh water.

• If you’ve used Water Lock Mode, eject water by holding the Digital Crown.

• Try to get the band off, then rinse it in a separate container, and wipe with a clean, cotton cloth.

• Let it dry before you charge it.

Doing this after each session can help you prevent your band or watch casing from being corroded or discolored.

Conclusion

So, is your Apple Watch waterproof? Technically, no. But it’s water-resistant enough for pool, open water swims, and even shallow dives if you use the right model, especially the Ultra series.

To stay safe and extend the life of your device, we advise that you always use Water Lock Mode, pick the right Apple Watch case and screen protectors, and clean it well after every splash. As Apple Watch 2025 unfolds, we’d likely see even better waterproofing, deeper dives, and smarter swim features with watchOS 11 leading the way. You’d be amazed to see a lot of amazing and high quality swim protection products on ESR.

FAQ

Wondering what’s safe and what’s not with your Apple Watch? Here are some quick answers.

Is it ok to shower with your Apple Watch?

Yes, if it’s Series 2 or a newer model. But avoid hot showers because heat can damage the seals over time.

Is it recommended to put a case on an Apple Watch?

Yes, if you are someone who swims or dives often. A case guarantees an extra layer of protection from impact and water inflow.

When did the Apple Watch Ultra come out?

Sometimes in September 2022, the first Apple Watch Ultra was released then followed by the Ultra 2 in 2023. Our hopes are high as we wait for the release of the Ultra 3 later in 2025.

References 

• Apple Inc. (2023). About Apple Watch water resistance. Apple Support.

• Apple Inc. (2023). Use the Water Lock and eject water from your Apple Watch. Apple Support.

• Patel, N. (2023, September 12). Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs. Ultra: What’s new and what’s the same. The Verge.

• Hardwick, T. (2024, March 8). Apple Watch Ultra 3: What to expect. MacRumors.

• Mayo, B. (2024, June 10). watchOS 11: What’s new for Apple Watch in 2025. 9to5Mac.

GSM Arena. (2023). Apple Watch Ultra specifications.