While not fully waterproof, Apple Watches offer significant water resistance, making them suitable for various wet activities. Apple carefully brands its watches as water resistant, a common classification in the watch industry that indicates robust capabilities to withstand water exposure. The degree of water resistance varies by model and is measured in meters and ATM (Atmospheres), representing the water pressure a watch can endure under laboratory conditions.

For general use, Apple Watches Series 2 and later are rated at 50 meters, making them appropriate for shallow swimming in pools or the ocean. This rating also applies to all Apple Watch SE models. However, the Apple Watch Ultra models boast a 100-meter rating, suitable for more extreme water sports like water skiing and recreational scuba diving to depths of 130 feet.

When using your Apple Watch in water, consider band material; leather and stainless steel are generally not recommended. Water resistance can also degrade over time due to exposure to damage, soap, or steam. For swimming workouts, the Water Lock feature automatically engages to prevent accidental screen inputs and expels water upon deactivation through vibrations. With these considerations, most Apple Watch users can confidently wear their devices during water-based activities.