Most smartwatches are water-resistant these days, meaning you can use them in rainy weather or even while you’re swimming.
Some smartwatches are more water-resistant than others though, so in this article we’ll guide you through all you need to know – including info on IP ratings, swimming or diving with a smartwatch, and top tips for keeping it in good working order. So… let’s dive right in.
Smartwatch IP ratings explained
IP ratings, (the IP stands for Ingress Protection), are two-digit numbers that tell you how good your device is at withstanding dust and water.
The first digit refers to protection against solid particles including dust, and ranges from 0 (no protection) to 6 (dust-tight).
The second digit refers to water and moisture protection, with ratings from 0 (no protection) to 9 (protected against powerful water jets).
So for example, an IP68-rated smartwatch is dust-tight and can withstand immersion in water. But how deep? Well, that’s where ATM comes in…
Differences in smartwatch water-resistance
Smartwatch water resistance is measured using both IP ratings and ATM (atmosphere) ratings, which specify the depth a device can withstand water pressure.
For example, a 5ATM rating means the smartwatch is water-resistant up to (or should that be down to?) a depth of 50 metres, and fine for swimming and diving. If a smartwatch only has a 3ATM rating, it can handle light splashes and rain but shouldn’t be immersed in water – so swimming is a no-no.
Major smartwatch brands like Samsung smartwatches, Garmin smartwatches, Fossil smartwatches, Michael Kors smartwatches offer different levels of water resistance. You’ll find Michael Kors and Fossil smartwatches rated at 3ATM or more, while Garmin produces sports watches with 5ATM or higher settings – making them a great choice for more adventurous swimmers. The latest Samsung Galaxy Watch7 also comes with an IP68 and 5ATM rating, so it's water resistant to 50 metres and safe for swimming or showering.
Can you swim with a smartwatch?
If you’re looking for a smartwatch you can wear while swimming, look out for models with a water resistance of at least 5ATM (50 metres).
Other key features to consider are swim tracking - with metrics like lap/lengths count, distance, and stroke style. Bright and responsive displays are best, because they’re usually easier to read in various lighting conditions. Premium smartwatch brands like Apple Watches, Samsung, and Garmin usually have these kind of swim-friendly features on their devices.
Finally, make sure your smartwatch has swim-proof straps that’ll last even when you’re racking up those lengths.
Can you go diving with a smartwatch?
If you’re looking for smartwatch for diving, it should have minimum water resistance rating of 5ATM (50 metres). Look for dedicated dive modes or compatible apps that track depth, time underwater, and water temperature.
A bright and clear display is crucial for underwater readability. It’s also worth going for smartwatches with a durable build and made from corrosion-resistant materials. For safe and enjoyable diving, we recommend you check that the smartwatch complies with diving standards – you can find this info in the user manual or manufacturer’s website.
Caring for your waterproof smartwatch
A little bit of care and attention goes a long way in keeping your waterproof smartwatch in good condition. Here are a few top tips for making sure it stays in great nick.
1. Rinse after use. After swimming or exposure to water, rinse your smartwatch to remove any salt or chemicals that might still be clinging on to it.
2. Clean regularly. Wipe the watch regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth to prevent any buildup of dirt or residue.
3. Avoid extreme temperatures. Extreme heat or cold can affect the waterproof seals on your smartwatch. So try not to get it too hot or cold!
4. Check seals regularly. Inspect the seals every month to make sure they’re in good condition. Damaged seals can seriously affect water resistance.
5. Ditch dodgy cleaning materials. Be cautious with cleaning agents or abrasive materials, as they can damage the surface of a smartwatch and affect its waterproofing abilities.
6. Charge in dry areas. Always charge your smartwatch in a dry environment to avoid moisture getting into the charging ports.
What happens if my smartwatch falls in the water?
If your smartwatch falls in water, quickly remove it and power it off if possible. Dry it thoroughly, but please avoid using heat sources like hair dryers. If your smartwatch is water-resistant, it’ll hopefully be okay after drying. If not, it's best to check out the manufacturer's guidelines or contact them for specific advice.
You should also check if your smartwatch has a ‘water ejection’ feature. You’ll find it on Apple Watches and Samsung smartwatches.
On the Apple Watch, it's called ‘Water Lock’, and on Samsung Galaxy Watch, it's known as ‘Water Lock Mode’ or ‘Water Ejection’. This feature expels water from your smartwatch speaker grill by playing a sound and using vibrations to push out any water that might have entered.
Need any more help?
If you’d like more advice on how to choose the best smartwatch, our smart fitness buying guide is well worth a look. Or why not pop in-store and ask one of our colleagues for help? They’re always happy to chat.
