October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsSlow PC?RecommendedPC slow today? Run a repair scan before it gets worseResolve common Windows issues and optimize system performance.Scan NowOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
WatchRanker
Search
For vendors

Answered: Is the Apple Watch waterproof?

Apple Watch is water-resistant, not waterproof. Apple’s guidance differs by generation: Series 2 and later support shallow-water swimming, while Ultra models allow additional activities within stated limits.

By WatchRanker Team 3 min read

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

No. Apple Watch is water-resistant, not waterproof. Apple says Series 2 and later are suitable for shallow-water swimming, while first-generation Apple Watch and Series 1 should not be submerged; Ultra models support additional activities, including recreational scuba diving within Apple’s stated limits. Water resistance can diminish over time, so your model, its condition, and its band all matter.

Apple Watch water resistance by model

Model Apple’s guidance Important limit
First-generation Apple Watch and Series 1 Splash- and water-resistant for everyday exposure. Apple does not recommend submerging them.
Series 2 and later, including Series 11 50-metre rating under ISO 22810:2010; suitable for shallow-water swimming. Not for scuba diving, waterskiing, other high-velocity water activities, or submersion below shallow depth.
Apple Watch Ultra models Broader water-use guidance, including swimming, snorkelling, and recreational scuba diving. Apple’s stated maximum for recreational scuba is 40 metres; a 100-metre rating is not permission to dive to that depth.

These figures and activity limits follow Apple’s water-resistance guidance and product specifications. [Apple Support: About Apple Watch water resistance; Apple Watch specifications]

What water-resistant means

Apple describes Apple Watch as water-resistant, not waterproof. Water resistance applies to specified conditions and activities; it is not a guarantee against water entering the watch in every circumstance. Apple warns that resistance is not permanent and can diminish over time. It also says the watch cannot be rechecked or resealed to restore water resistance.

Do not treat a metre rating as a safe diving depth. Apple’s activity guidance distinguishes shallow-water swimming on Series models from the additional activities supported by Ultra. Follow the guidance for your exact model rather than relying on the rating alone.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
YIJDACASE 3 in 1 Waterproof Case for 40mm Apple Watch SE 3/2/1 Series 6/5/4
  • 【Perfect Fit 40mm】This precision-engineered face cover is custom-designed for Apple Watch 40mm models, including Series SE 3, SE 2(2nd Gen), SE, and Series 6, 5, 4. Please verify the "40mm" marking on the back of your watch to ensure a perfect fit before purchasing.
  • 【Daily Waterproof】Features an upgraded built-in seal ring for reliable IP67-rated water resistance. It effectively guards your screen against daily moisture, sweat, and fog—perfect for hand washing, intense workouts, and rainy days.(Note: Designed for daily surface protection; not intended for deep-sea diving or prolonged underwater submersion. Please ensure the screen area is dry after exposure to water.)
  • 【360° All-around Protection】This 3-in-1 integrated design features a premium PC bumper with edge-to-edge coverage and a built-in 9H tempered glass screen protector. It provides comprehensive defense against scratches, impacts, and daily wear, safeguarding your iWatch from every angle without obstructing the display.(Note: To ensure optimal touch sensitivity, please do not use this case with any other screen protectors already on your watch.)
  • 【Easy Snap-On Installation】Precision cutouts and a user-friendly snap-on design allow for quick installation and removal (removal tool included). It fits snugly over all watch buttons and features, ensuring highly responsive touch sensitivity and full access to the digital crown. You can charge your watch directly and access sensors without ever removing the case.
  • 【YIJDACASE 24-Month Reliable Support】We stand behind our products with a long-term quality commitment. Suitable gifts for Men, Women, Fathers day, Mothers Day, Birthday and Christmas. Our professional service team is available 24/7 to ensure your satisfaction. Please feel free to reach out to us via Amazon Message for any product concerns or technical assistance.

What can I do with my Apple Watch in water?

Rain, sweat, and handwashing are examples of everyday exposure Apple identifies. Series 2 and later are suitable for shallow-water swimming. Ultra models have broader support, but even they have limits. Apple advises against using Series 2 and later for scuba diving, waterskiing, high-velocity water activities, or submersion below shallow depth.

A band’s water suitability is separate from the watch’s rating. Apple lists some band types, including leather and stainless-steel examples, as not water-resistant. Check the guidance for your specific band; the watch rating does not make every band suitable for swimming.

Rank #2
Misxi 2-Pack Waterproof Case for 46mm Apple Watch Series 11/10
  • [IP67] Waterproof Certified: [IP67] Certified to ensure excellent water resistance. The integrated waterproof sealing ring safeguards the gap between the case and the screen of Apple Watch 11/10. It effectively prevents moisture from entering the interior of the iwatch screen protector during washing hands or swimming. Tips: Immerse the apple watch in water for a long time is NOT recommended, as this will affect the waterproof performance of the apple watch screen protector
  • Perfect Fit: The screen protector of Apple Watch Series 11 Series 10 fully covers both the watch screen and sides without affecting the apple watch's on-screen touch sensitivity, buttons, heart rate monitor, fingerprint recognition, speaker, microphone and wireless charger, while further to maintain the full functionality
  • Excellent Protection: This case with screen protector is crafted to provide robust external protection for your Apple Watch Series 11 Series 10. The tough HD tempered glass screen protects your iWatch from dust, fingerprints and scratches, ensuring long-lasting clarity and defense
  • Effortless to Install: The installation steps of the case for iWatch Series 11 Series 10 are very simple. You can install the screen protector of iwatch 10 or remove the case wherever and whenever without the need for tools
  • Model: Compatible with Apple Watch Series 11 Series 10 46mm. Please confirm your iWatch model before you purchase

How to care for an Apple Watch after swimming

  1. After swimming with a Series 2 or later, gently rinse the watch with lightly running, warm, fresh water.
  2. Dry it thoroughly with a nonabrasive, lint-free cloth.
  3. Do not use heat, compressed air, or sprays to dry or clean it.
  4. If the watch is older or has been damaged, be cautious and consult Apple’s guidance for the exact model rather than assuming its original resistance remains.

These care steps follow Apple’s support guidance. [Apple Support: About Apple Watch water resistance]

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Frequently asked questions

Can I shower with my Apple Watch?

Apple’s guidance addresses showering as a question to consider for your particular model and condition; it does not mean the watch is waterproof. Check the exact model’s instructions and remember that water resistance can diminish over time.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Misxi 2-Pack Waterproof Case for 44mm Apple Watch SE3/SE2/SE/Series 6/5/4
  • Waterproof [IP67 Rating]: This screen protector has a built-in waterproof sealing ring. It can prevent moisture from penetrating between the case and the watch (The waterproof area is to the screen, not the sides of the watch). It effectively prevents moisture in daily life from entering the screen and affecting the touch screen effect of the watch(Such as washing hands/exercise, etc.). Please do not soak in water for a long time, it will reduce the waterproof performance of the case.
  • Easy to install: Super easy to install and remove the protective case from the watch. It doesn't add much bulk to the watch.
  • Touch-sensitive: It is sensitive to touch and quick to launch an application when installed the case. You feel like there is no case on your watch.
  • Smart design: The button design of this tempered glass protective cover is to provide comprehensive protection for the case, and does not affect the sensitivity at all.
  • Compatible model: Compatible with Apple Watch SE 3 / SE 2/ SE / Series 6 /Series 5 /Series 4 44mm

Can I scuba dive with my Apple Watch?

Apple says Series 2 and later should not be used for scuba diving. Ultra models support recreational scuba diving, with Apple stating a maximum depth of 40 metres. Do not interpret an Ultra’s 100-metre water-resistance rating as permission to dive to 100 metres.

Is Apple Watch Series 1 waterproof?

No. Apple describes first-generation Apple Watch and Series 1 as splash- and water-resistant, but recommends against submerging them.

Rank #4
Zumyzu Full Protection Cover for Apple Watch SE3/SE2/SE Series 6/5/4 40mm
  • 【For 40mm】This waterproof apple watch case with back cover is designed for Apple Watch SE3 SE2 SE Series 6/5/4 40mm. (Please confirm the size by checking the size mark on the back of the watch.)
  • 【2 in 1 Full Coverage Case】 New Protective Concept - 2 in 1 Full Coverage Protective Case! Made with premium Hard PC material, featuring a built-in 9H screen protector combined with sturdy back cover, offering 360-degree solid protection to effectively guard your Apple Watch against scratches, drops, and daily wear and tear.
  • 【Daily waterproof 】The built-in seal ring keeps water away from screen, the water will not seeps through the screen protector, which means you no longer need to remove case repeatedly and wipe water. (The old design case of others may cause the touch sensitivity to decrease disk when you wash your hands or take a bath etc.)
  • 【Easy to Install and Charging】 Charge directly, don't need to take off the appe watch case and band. The back cover case is easy to install and remove.Note: Because our apple watch case with tempered glass screen protector, it cannot be used simultaneously with other screen protectors.
  • 【Zumyzu Quality Service】We offer a two-year Quality Service with unconditionally refund or replace if defective or any quality problems. Via "Login Amazon" → "Your Account" → "Your orders" → "Ask Product Question".

Does water resistance last forever?

No. Apple says water resistance is not permanent and can diminish over time. Apple also says it cannot recheck or reseal the watch to restore water resistance.

What should I do if my Apple Watch gets wet?

For Series 2 and later, Apple recommends a gentle rinse with lightly running, warm, fresh water after swimming, followed by thorough drying with a nonabrasive, lint-free cloth. Avoid heat, compressed air, and sprays, and consult Apple’s model-specific instructions for other situations.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Goton 3 in 1 Waterproof Case with Band Compatible for Apple Watch 44mm
  • Compatible Models: Designed for Apple Watch 40mm, 41mm, 42mm, 44mm, 45mm, 46mm and 49mm; Select the correct size and check the case size printed on the back of your watch before purchasing
  • 360° Full Protection: The integrated band and double-layer case combine a built-in 9H tempered glass screen protector with a sturdy back cover to help protect the screen, edges and back from scratches, bumps and everyday drops
  • IP67 Daily Water Resistance: Built-in sealing ring helps keep splashes, sweat, rain, moisture and fog away from the screen during hand washing, workouts and daily wear; Not intended for swimming, bathing or prolonged submersion
  • Easy Installation & Full Access: Snap-in design allows quick installation and removal; Precise cutouts maintain access to the Digital Crown, side button, speaker, sensors and charging area
  • Comfortable Integrated Band: The adjustable band provides a secure and comfortable fit for work, workouts, travel and everyday wear while keeping the protective case firmly in place

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Journal

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.