One of the most frequently asked questions among potential Apple Watch buyers and enthusiasts is, “Is Apple Watch 9 waterproof?”
Understanding the device’s water resistance capabilities is important, especially if you lead an active lifestyle or plan to wear the smartwatch during water-related activities.
In this post, I look into the Apple Watch’s waterproof features, examining its water resistance ratings, usage guidelines, and practical tips for safeguarding your iWatch.
Table of Contents
Is Apple Watch 9 Waterproof or Water-Resistant?
The Apple Watch 9 is water-resistant, but not waterproof. You can wear and use your Apple Watch during activities such as exercise (exposure to sweat is OK), swimming in shallow water, walking in the rain, and washing your hands.
The Apple Watch Series 9 can withstand up to 50 meters of submersion. It’s important to note that an Apple Watch is not designed to handle continuous high-energy water activities.
Getting into an ocean or pool won’t cause damage, but you should not wear it for extreme sporting activities, like water surfing or skiing. It may work well a few times, but several high-velocity impacts will compromise the water resistance, ultimately damaging your Apple Watch.
NB: Not all Apple Watch 9 bands are appropriate for water use. For example, the stainless steel and leather bands aren’t water-resistant and shouldn’t be exposed to liquids.
How to maintain the water resistance of your Apple Watch 9
The water resistance of your Apple Watch can diminish over time, and it can’t be rechecked or resealed for water resistance.
The following should be avoided to maintain the water resistance of your Apple Watch: dropping it or subjecting it to other impacts, exposing it to soap or soapy water (for example, while showering or bathing), and exposing it to chemicals found in soaps, shampoos, conditioners, lotions, perfumes, solvents, detergent, acids or acidic foods, insect repellent, sunscreen, oil, hair dye, or any substance other than water.
If your Apple Watch comes in contact accidentally with any of these substances, it should be cleaned with fresh warm water and dried with a lint-free cloth.
Waterproof vs. Water Resistance
Waterproof watches are usually thought to be entirely impervious to water, which may not be the case. Over time, waterproof watches can be damaged by water if continuously exposed. For this reason, the term ‘water-resistant’ is mainly used when marketing smartwatches.
Water-resistant watches have some protection from water, but a water-resistant rating isn’t universal. Generally, most smartwatches come with different water-resistant ratings, which show the amount of water activity the devices can handle.
Related: Apple Watch vs Whoop 4.0
FAQs
What is Water Lock on Apple Watch?
The Water Lock feature on the Apple Watch is designed to avoid accidental taps during water-based activities. It also cleans the Apple Watch’s speakers after being exposed to water.
How Long Can an Apple Watch be Underwater?
Apple claims that the Apple Watch has an IPX7 water-resistant rating and can withstand shallow-water activities for up to 30 minutes.
How far can an Apple Watch go underwater?
The Apple Watch’s water-resistance rating determines how deep you can go with your watch without ruining it. It shows the amount of ATM your watch can handle.
What Should I Do if My Apple Watch Gets Wet?
If your Apple Watch gets wet, there’s a good chance that it’s doing fine. However, this depends on the model you own and how pressurized or deep the water is.
How Waterproof is My Apple Watch Strap?
This is a crucial aspect to consider when looking for an Apple Watch. Your Apple Watch may be water-resistant, but the strap may not be well protected against liquid. Apple claims that Leather Loop, Link Bracelet, Classic Buckle, and Milanese bands aren’t water-resistant. The best Apple watch band for water resistance is the Sport Band.
NB: Learn whether the Apple Watch band is covered under warranty
Final Thoughts
It’s important to know that Apple Watches are not designed to handle high-impact water activities. However, Apple Watch is a good bet if you want a watch that can withstand splashes and shallow water activities.
