The Apple Watch is one of the main contributors to the rise and success of wearable technology. Much like its iconic iPhone, the Apple Watch has established itself as one of the best smartwatches available since the release of the first generation in 2015.
Not only useful for keeping up to date with your notifications, controlling music and providing contactless payments, the Apple Watch has also managed to bridge into fitness tracking, health and well-being.
As much a device for daily life as the gym, the Apple Watch can seemingly do it all. But is the Apple Watch waterproof, and can you take it with you for a few laps of the pool?
Are Apple Watches waterproof?
Apple Watches are not waterproof, they are water resistant. This means they are safe from sweat, splashes when you’re washing your hands or a bit of rain. Swimming is also permitted.
Since the Apple Watch Series 2, the water resistance has been of a quality which allows swimming in shallow water. There’s even a feature on Apple Watches called Water Lock, which prevents the water from accidentally activating the touchscreen.
Note that water resistance does not defend against water pressure - if you’re looking to do some significant underwater swimming or go diving, best leave the Apple Watch in your locker.
For more on waterproofing, visit Apple's support page.
Read below to find out about the Apple Watch Ultra, an upgrade over the standard Apple Watch design that can handle more robust swimming activities.
Can you swim with an Apple Watch?
Yes, any Apple Watch since the Series 2 release has been suitable for swimming.
However, if you are a dedicated swimmer and diver looking to track your laps and descend into the watery depths, you’ll want a dedicated swimming smartwatch fitness tracker.
What’s the Apple Watch Ultra?
The Apple Watch Ultra is specifically designed to stand up to adventurous activities. Among other things, it’s got an upgraded case with more robust controls and has a water resistance rating of 100m.
William Lobley is a Deputy Editor and reviewer for What's The Best, specialising in technology and outdoors. He also writes for Empire Online.
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