Are Apple Watch Series 4 Waterproof?

Are Apple Watch Series 4 Waterproof? Everything You Need to Know Before Taking It Swimming or Showering

If you're wondering, are Apple Watch Series 4 waterproof, the short answer is: not exactly.
While it can handle water to a certain extent, calling it waterproof would be misleading.

In this detailed guide, you’ll discover how water-resistant the Series 4 really is, what you can and cannot do with it in wet conditions, and how to properly care for your watch to maintain its functionality over time.

• Key Takeaways

• What Does “Waterproof” Really Mean?

• Apple Watch Series 4 Water Resistance Rating Explained

• Can You Swim with Apple Watch Series 4?

• Can You Shower with Apple Watch Series 4?

• How to Clean and Dry Your Apple Watch After Water Exposure

• What You Should Avoid With Apple Watch Series 4

• How Water Resistance Changes Over Time

• Apple’s Official Guidelines on Water Resistance

• Real User Experiences with Apple Watch Series 4 in Water

• Apple Watch Series 4 vs Other Models

• How to Use Water Lock on Apple Watch Series 4

• Using Apple Watch Series 4 for Swimming Workouts

• Should You Upgrade Your Apple Watch for Better Water Resistance?

• Frequently Asked Questions

• Summary

Key Takeaways

• The Apple Watch Series 4 is not waterproof, but it is water-resistant up to 50 meters.

• It is suitable for swimming, rain, and shallow-water activities.

• It should not be used in hot tubs, saunas, or during deep-sea diving.

• Apple includes a Water Lock feature to protect your device when submerged.

• Proper cleaning and drying techniques help maintain the water resistance over time.

What Does “Waterproof” Really Mean?

When it comes to wearable tech, there’s a major difference between waterproof and water-resistant—and it's important to understand that distinction before dunking your device in water.

The term waterproof suggests a complete seal from water, no matter the pressure or duration. Most consumer electronics, including Apple Watches, do not meet this standard. Instead, Apple describes its devices as water-resistant.

Water resistance refers to the device’s ability to withstand water under specific conditions. In other words, it can resist water penetration to a certain depth and for a limited period—but not indefinitely.

This is exactly why Apple avoids using the term “waterproof” in all of its official documentation.

Apple Watch Series 4 Water Resistance Rating Explained

The Apple Watch Series 4 has been tested and rated under ISO standard 22810:2010 for water resistance up to 50 meters. This means it can be used for shallow-water activities such as swimming in a pool or ocean.

According to Apple, however, this does not mean the watch is safe for all water exposure. The company makes it clear that water resistance is not permanent and may diminish over time due to wear and tear. Damage from soap, sweat, salt, or high-velocity impacts can degrade the seals protecting your device.

For more information on model features and to see how Series 4 stacks up, check out this detailed breakdown: Which Apple Watch do I have?

Can You Swim with Apple Watch Series 4?

Yes, Apple Watch Series 4 is safe to swim with, as long as you follow a few guidelines. The 50-meter water resistance rating means it's fine for surface-level swimming in a pool or ocean.

You can use your Series 4 for:

• Lap swimming in pools

• Open water swimming (at the surface)

• Tracking swim workouts via the Workout app

However, it’s important to avoid submerging the watch beyond recreational swimming depths. You should also steer clear of activities that involve high-velocity water or deep water pressure, such as jet-skiing or scuba diving.

Before you start your swim, activate Water Lock mode by swiping up on the Control Center and tapping the droplet icon. This prevents accidental screen interactions while in the water. After you're done, turn the Digital Crown to eject water from the speaker.

You can also upgrade your Apple Watch’s look with swim-friendly accessories. Here are some great options: Shop Apple Watch bands

Can You Shower with Apple Watch Series 4?

While the Series 4 technically can withstand water exposure in the shower, Apple recommends against it. The reason is simple: soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and other personal care products can compromise the seals and membranes that provide water resistance.

Even though the water itself isn’t a direct threat, the chemicals in these products may damage the waterproof adhesives and gaskets over time.

If you accidentally leave it on in the shower once or twice, you’re likely fine. But making a habit of it could eventually reduce your watch’s ability to resist water. As a safer alternative, remove your Apple Watch before showering—or consider upgrading to a model built for more rugged conditions. Learn more about your options here: Which Apple Watch is the best?

How to Clean and Dry Your Apple Watch After Water Exposure

To preserve your Apple Watch’s water resistance and keep it functioning properly, it’s essential to clean and dry it thoroughly after exposure to water.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Rinse the watch under clean, fresh water to remove any salt or chlorine.

2. Gently wipe the surface with a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth.

3. Rotate the Digital Crown under running water to clear debris.

4. Activate Water Lock and then turn the Digital Crown to eject water from the speaker port.

5. Let it air-dry in a clean, dry space.

Avoid using compressed air, heat sources, or cleaning agents.

If you're looking for bands that dry fast and handle water well, take a look at these: 7 Best Apple Watch Series 9 Bands

What You Should Avoid With Apple Watch Series 4

Although Series 4 is built to resist water, not all activities are created equal. Here’s what Apple specifically advises against:

• Scuba diving or free diving beyond shallow depth

• High-velocity water such as water skiing or jet showers

• Saunas and steam rooms

• Exposure to soaps, solvents, acids, or perfumes

• Dropping the watch or subjecting it to physical impacts

These factors can damage the seals and internal components, making your watch vulnerable to water damage.

How Water Resistance Changes Over Time

Like most wearables, Apple Watch Series 4 will not stay water-resistant forever. Its seals and adhesives can wear down with age and repeated exposure.

Several things can speed up the degradation process:

• Long-term exposure to saltwater

• Frequent contact with soapy or chlorinated water

• Dropping the watch or hitting it against hard surfaces

• Extreme temperatures

Because of this, Apple recommends getting your device inspected periodically if you rely heavily on its water resistance.

Apple’s Official Guidelines on Water Resistance

Apple clearly states that while the Series 4 is water-resistant up to 50 meters, it is not waterproof, and damage from liquids is not covered by warranty.

Here’s what Apple specifically recommends:

• Use Water Lock for swimming or water activities.

• Rinse and dry the watch thoroughly after exposure.

• Don’t expose the watch to heat or chemicals.

• Water resistance is not a permanent condition and may decrease over time.

For Apple’s full guidance, refer to their support page.

Real User Experiences with Apple Watch Series 4 in Water

In online forums like Reddit and MacRumors, users have consistently reported positive experiences swimming with Series 4. Many wear the watch in pools, lakes, or oceans multiple times per week without problems.

Most issues come from using the watch in hot showers or saunas, where repeated exposure to steam and soap can weaken its resistance.

Some users note that after a year or more, the speaker performance declines slightly, especially if water isn't ejected after swimming. This is why using Water Lock and drying the device is crucial after each exposure.

Apple Watch Series 4 vs Other Models

When considering water resistance, how does Series 4 compare to other Apple Watch models?

If you’re an average user who swims occasionally, the Series 4 is more than adequate.

However, if you plan to dive or regularly swim in rough conditions, upgrading to the Apple Watch Ultra might be a better choice. It offers 100-meter resistance and certified dive support.

How to Use Water Lock on Apple Watch Series 4

Apple Watch includes a handy feature called Water Lock, which protects the screen and helps eject water.

To activate Water Lock:

1. Swipe up on the watch face to open the Control Center.

2. Tap the droplet icon.

3. A lock icon appears, and the screen becomes unresponsive to touches.

After your swim or water exposure:

1. Turn the Digital Crown until the watch unlocks.

2. Water is ejected from the speaker using a vibrating mechanism.

Using Water Lock is an essential step to maintain the device’s integrity in wet environments.

Using Apple Watch Series 4 for Swimming Workouts

The Apple Watch Series 4 is not just water-resistant—it’s also an effective tool for tracking your swimming workouts.

Features include:

• Customizable lap lengths

• Stroke detection

• Calorie and heart rate tracking

• Open water and pool swim modes

For advanced metrics, third-party apps like Swim.com and MySwimPro can sync seamlessly with your Series 4 to provide in-depth performance analysis.

These features make the Series 4 a great companion for casual swimmers and fitness enthusiasts alike.

Should You Upgrade Your Apple Watch for Better Water Resistance?

If your current activities only involve casual swimming or occasional water exposure, the Series 4 still does the job.

However, for high-performance or deep-water activities like scuba diving, frequent hot showers, or long-term durability, upgrading may be worth it. The Apple Watch Ultra is the most water-resistant model available and supports full dive metrics.

Before you upgrade, check out this model guide to decide if newer models meet your needs.

✅ External Links (Credible Sources)

1. Apple’s Official Water Resistance Guidelines
   https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT205000
   Use this when explaining Apple’s official stance on water resistance, warranty limits, and Water Lock feature.

2. ISO 22810:2010 Standard for Water Resistance
   https://www.iso.org/standard/43390.html
   Use this when describing what the “50m” rating actually means under standardized testing.

3. MacRumors Guide to Apple Watch Water Resistance
   https://www.macrumors.com/guide/apple-watch-water-resistance/
   Use this when citing real user feedback, or comparing resistance between Apple Watch models.

📺 YouTube Video Links (Embed or Link)

1. Open Water Swimming with Apple Watch
   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoC1cRpmdM8
   Use in the swimming section to show actual swim test footage.

2. How to Turn ON or OFF Apple Watch Water Lock - What is it for?
   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLDZnt396es
   

3. Apple Watch Series 6 vs Series 5 vs Series 4 vs Series 3 vs 2 vs 1 vs SE Battery Life DRAIN TEST
   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ynFDzK2yfZo
   Use in model comparison to visually compare resistance across models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Apple Watch Series 4 safe in saltwater?

Yes, but you should rinse it with fresh water afterward to prevent corrosion from salt buildup.

Can I wear my Apple Watch Series 4 in the pool every day?

Yes, it’s built for daily pool use. Just rinse and dry it thoroughly afterward.

What happens if water gets inside my Apple Watch?

Use the Water Lock feature and turn the Digital Crown to eject the water. If problems persist, contact Apple Support.

Can I dive with an Apple Watch Series 4?

No, it is not rated for diving. It's safe only for shallow water activities.

Does AppleCare cover water damage on Series 4?

No, AppleCare does not cover liquid damage, even with water resistance.

Is the speaker damaged by water in Series 4?

Not if you use Water Lock and eject water properly. However, long-term exposure without cleaning may reduce audio quality.

How do I eject water from my Apple Watch?

Activate Water Lock and turn the Digital Crown. The watch will vibrate and eject water through the speaker.

Can I take a shower with soap wearing my Apple Watch?

You shouldn’t. Soap can weaken the seals. It’s best to remove it before showering.

Summary

To wrap it up, Apple Watch Series 4 is not waterproof, but it is water-resistant enough for most everyday use.

It handles swimming, splashes, and even open water with no problem—if you follow Apple’s care guidelines.

Avoid exposing it to soaps, high-pressure water, or extreme conditions to preserve its long-term functionality.

Whether you stick with your Series 4 or decide to upgrade, the key is understanding what the watch can and cannot handle—and taking care of it accordingly.

If you're looking to upgrade your gear, start by browsing the best Apple Watch bands here.

Blog Author section.

Emily Johnson

 

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Emily is a seasoned writer and technology enthusiast with a passion for digital watches and wearable tech. With over a decade of experience in the tech industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to her readers.