If you enjoy swimming, surfing or snorkeling in the sea, you need a reliable sports watch that can track your activities and motivate you. The Apple Watch is one such wearable that offers you many features specifically designed for water sports enthusiasts. But how does it perform? Apple Watch in salt water? Can the smartwatch withstand the salty and sometimes harsh element? And what do you have to pay attention to when you Apple Watch wear on the beach? In this experience report you will find out everything you need to know about your... Apple Watch to protect and enjoy in salt water.

I use them Apple Watch since the first generation and now up to the current model in salt water. We recently went back to the Red Sea – and I have mine there Apple Watch Ultra used for diving and snorkeling. That's not a problem at all, because current Apple Watch Models are certainly designed for this.

The Apple Watch Series 9 and their previous models are all waterproof to a depth of 50 meters. The Apple Watch Incredibly even up to 100 meters - you can not only swim and snorkel with the top model, but even with the Apple Watch Ultra diving. This means you can easily wear them while swimming in the pool or in the sea.

So far so good. You can current Apple Watch You can use models in salt water without any problems, but at the same time you should be aware that this is not exactly beneficial for the lifespan of the smartwatch. salt water, sunscreen, sand, Heat and strong sunlight affect them Apple Watch strong.

Strong salt water attacks the smartwatch

But not all salt water is the same. Depending on where you are, the saltiness of the sea water can vary. These factors can Apple Watch damage in the long term if you don't care for it properly. For example, the salt can clog the speakers and microphone or corrode the seals. Sand or dirt can also scratch or dirty the smartwatch. That's why you should have some important tips Cleaning Deiner Apple Watch follow when using them in salt water.

Apple advises against using the Apple Watch in salt water

In a forum has a Apple-Employee when asked Can I use that Apple Watch also swim in salt water? answered as follows:

I would advise against this as salt water can attack the seals etc. Apple does not guarantee water damage, not even with normal water - just for information.

Apple Support

Video - Apple Watch in salt water?

Below I have picked out a video for you in which a user checks the waterproofness of a current one Apple Watch test. I think that's quite revealing how they... Apple Watch can be used in the sea in salt water.

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Rinse the smart watch with fresh water

The most important tip is yours Apple Watch Rinse thoroughly with clean fresh water after every contact with salt water. This will remove the salt and other residue from the surface and openings of the smartwatch. At the Apple Watch Ultra, for example, salt collects on the grooves between the cover glass and the housing - I would remove that immediately.

You can use a faucet or a water bottle for this. Make sure you rinse all parts of the smartwatch, including the bracelet and charging contacts. You should regularly do your Apple Watch cleanto maintain their functionality. After washing, dry the smartwatch well before putting it back on or charging it. I would recommend using a clean microfiber towel to dry off.

Apple Watch Buy sport bracelets for salt water

Under no circumstances go with your expensive one Apple Watch Bracelet into the water. Leather bracelets and metal bracelets can be damaged by salt water - and also by fresh water. If you the Apple Watch in water or similar challenging environments, I would get a cheap one Sport Armband buy that it might not be such a shame.

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My traumatic experience with... Apple Watch in salt water

I bought the first model in 2015 Apple Watch Bought it - and flew straight to Thailand on vacation. I had the smartwatch for less than three months when I took it to Southeast Asia. And anyone who knows Thailand knows that heat, strong sunlight, sweat, sand, lots of sunscreen and of course salt water await the smartwatch there.

The first model of the Apple Watch wasn't really waterproof yet. You were only allowed to wash your hands with it and then had to dry the smartwatch so that it remained protected. And so it happened as it had to happen.

Apple Watch defective after use in salt water

So I'm on the paradisiacal island of Koh Phangan with my Apple Watch swim in the sea. Apple Watch actually cut a pretty good figure in the strong salt water in the sea. You really didn't get the impression that it was about to break. But apparently it was too much for my brand new smartwatch in stainless steel with a Milanese strap. On the same day, the bottom of the smartwatch, where the heart sensor is located, came loose and simply fell out.

It was quite interesting to see what a smartwatch looks like from the inside. But my Apple Watch The first generation was destroyed immediately after use in salt water. The adhesive had dissolved due to the aggressive salt water and the glued floor simply fell out. What a nuisance, but it was my own fault. I've been looking after it ever since Apple Watch Always immediately after use in the sea and in salt water - at least rinse them with fresh water.

Current models waterproof

current Apple Watch This shouldn't happen to models anymore. But as we have already seen above, advise Apple Even today, people still advise against using the smartwatch in salt water. Even if current models are waterproof and you can use them Apple Watch Ultra can even dive, you should be aware that salt water can damage the smartwatch. We as water sports enthusiasts and beach vacationers have to live with that. Or that Apple Watch Leave it at home – which is not an option, at least for me.

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Apple Watch in salt water – what does the manufacturer say?

In a support document for Apple Watch the manufacturer writes how water can affect the smartwatch:

The Apple Watch is water protected, but not waterproof. You can do that Apple For example, wear and use the Watch during activities such as sports (contact with sweat is harmless), in the rain or when washing your hands. The Apple Watch Ultra is also suitable for high-speed water sports and scuba diving up to 40 meters.
The Apple Watch Series 1 and Apple Watch (1st generation) are classified as water protection category IPX60529 according to IEC standard 7.
The Apple Watch Series 2 and newer are water-repellent to 22810 meters according to ISO standard 2010:50.
The Apple Watch Ultra and newer are ISO 22810:2010 water resistant to 100 meters and EN13319 compliant.
The Apple Watch Series 7 and later are IP6X dustproof. 
The Apple Watch Ultra and newer are IP6X dustproof. 
The magnetic clasp bracelet, the modern clasp (with fine fabric), the leather bracelet with end piece, the modern clasp (with leather), the Milanese bracelet, the link bracelet and the Hermès bracelets (leather and knitted) are not waterproof. 

Apple Support

The manufacturer further explains how and in which situations you can use it Apple Watch in water – and can therefore also be used sensibly in salt water.

If you have a Apple Watch Ultra or newer, you can wear them recreationally for scuba diving up to 40 meters and other activities like swimming, showering and water skiing.*

The Apple Watch Series 2 and newer can be used for shallow water activities such as swimming in a pool or the ocean. Other models than that Apple Watch However, Ultra or newer should not be used for scuba diving, water skiing, or other water activities at high speeds or in deeper water.

The Apple Watch Series 1 and Apple Watch (1st generation) are splash-proof. The immersion in one Apple WatchHowever, model is not recommended.

Not all Apple Watch Bracelets are suitable for use in water. The stainless steel and leather straps, for example, are not waterproof and should not come into contact with liquids.

Apple Support

The sea is calling - with the Apple Watch Ultra into salt water?

When it comes to dealing with the Apple Watch Going into the sea – i.e. into salt water – is that Apple Watch Ultra is once again a special case because it is also designed for diving and water sports at high speeds. You can of course use the smartwatch in the water without any problems. I've been using the smartwatch for some time now and have been in the sea with it several times - I've also done numerous snorkeling tours and dives with it. The smartwatch is ideal for use in the sea and therefore also in salt water.

However, the manufacturer warns that water resistance is not a permanent condition. It can diminish over time – even with good care. That's why you should also use your valuable Apple Watch Don't use the Ultra carelessly in the sea and, if in doubt, have it tested for waterproofness. For the Apple Watch Ultra offers Apple even a revision for diving (Depth suitability test).

After use in salt water, salt crystals often form on the cover glass and also in the gaps - the small gap between the cover glass and the housing and between the sensor and the housing. I would use this salt after using the Apple Watch Be sure to rinse Ultra in salt water immediately with clear water and then dry it with a clean microfiber cloth.

So you can with that Apple Watch Ultra can go into salt water relatively safely - after all, the Ultra is designed as a robust outdoor smartwatch with which you should be able to do really challenging activities. But that doesn't mean that protection against salt water and other liquids doesn't diminish over time. You should take this into account if you want to dive, snorkel or swim with this smartwatch.

Robust Apple Watch Buy sports bracelets

Not all bracelets are suitable for use in water. For example, the stainless steel and leather bracelets are not waterproof and should not be exposed to liquids. If you with the Apple Watch If you go into the water, it is better to buy a cheap bracelet in advance that you can easily cope with if it is damaged or worn out.

Is the smartwatch suitable for use in salt water and sea water?

To make it clear again: Yes, they Apple Watch Can of course also be used in salt water (sea water). But do so at your own risk and at the risk of damage. The fitness watch is likely to come into contact with this, especially on vacation by the sea.

If you make the appropriate preparations by pressing the drop in the control center, which appears after a single swipe across the display from bottom to top, nothing can stop you from having fun in the water, even in salt water and sea water.

Apple Watch Use for water sports in salt water

If no other liquid can penetrate the watch (with restrictions, see below), no salt water can penetrate. The most important Sports Watch features  Apple Watch What counts is its use when swimming - indoor, outdoor and in the sea. On the promotional photos of Apple you can see, for example, a surfer or stand up paddler on his surfboard or SUP in the sea one Apple Watch wearing. Accordingly, yes, they do Apple Watch is functional in salt water. However, one should make sure to prepare the watch beforehand.

Manufacturer does not provide any warranty against water damage

In addition, of course, as always: Use in the water on your own Danger. The manufacturer does not guarantee any damage caused in the water. Other liquids that should not come into contact with the Smartwatch are "Perfume, solvents, cleaning agents, acids or acidic foods, insect repellants, lotions, sunscreen, oil or hair dye" (source: Apple. Com).

In addition, you should definitely not settle quickly with a normal one Apple Watch move in the water - for example when riding a jet ski or skilfully diving into the water. So you need to be very careful when using yours Apple Watch go swimming in the sea or in the Beach vacation want to relax with the clock.

Instructions - Apple Watch Use correctly in salt water or sea water

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Apple Watch in salt water – what should you pay attention to?

My conclusion

Of course you can do yours Apple Watch use in salt water - that is out of the question. Apple itself occasionally even advertises the functions that are available to you for water sports. However, you must be aware that salt water, sunscreen, sand and strong sunlight are not exactly beneficial for the lifespan of your watch.

Scratches are just the smallest problem. The smartwatch's seals can also suffer. You should be aware of this – use of the Apple Watch in the sea and salt water at your own risk. Apple does not guarantee any problems that may occur.

I accept the wear and tear

I have to say very clearly: The Apple Watch is a commodity for me and it suffers on my wrist. I wear it without a protective glass and without a case. With the Apple Watch I even go ultra diving and snorkeling. I accept that the lifespan will suffer. But what good is your great outdoor watch if you can't do anything with it when you're out and about?

In this respect, the way I handle it is that I simply take good care of the smartwatch after using it in salt water - and it's good. If you have been swimming in very salty water, small salt crystals will form on the display. Then you should urgently rinse the watch with clean water.

Do you have the Apple Watch already used in the sea? How did the salt water affect your smartwatch? Share your experiences in the comments.

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