Is the Apple Watch Series 2 Waterproof for Swimming?

The Apple Watch Series 2, released in 2016, was the first model in Apple's smartwatch lineup to be officially rated as water-resistant for swimming. It is designed to withstand water exposure up to 50 meters in depth, making it suitable for various water activities, including swimming. The watch features a built-in GPS, an enhanced heart rate sensor, and a more durable design to handle the stresses of water sports. This article will explore the water resistance capabilities of the Apple Watch Series 2, its suitability for swimming, and some tips for maintaining its performance and longevity while used in water.

Water Resistance Specifications

The Apple Watch Series 2 comes with a water resistance rating of 50 meters, according to the ISO standard 22810:2010. This standard ensures that the watch can be submerged in water up to 50 meters deep without sustaining damage. This rating makes the Series 2 suitable for swimming in pools and shallow open water.

Key Features:

• Water Resistance Rating: Up to 50 meters (164 feet)
• ISO Standard: 22810:2010
• Built-in GPS: Tracks distance, pace, and route during water activities
• Heart Rate Sensor: Monitors heart rate during workouts

The watch’s water resistance is achieved through a combination of a specialized design, including sealed buttons and a sturdy case that prevents water from penetrating the internal components. This makes it robust enough to handle exposure to chlorinated pool water, saltwater, and general splashes.

Suitability for Swimming

When using the Apple Watch Series 2 for swimming, users can take advantage of its built-in swimming workout mode. This mode is designed to track various swimming metrics, such as lap count, stroke count, distance, and calories burned. The watch uses its accelerometer and gyroscope sensors to monitor and record these metrics accurately.

Swimming Modes:

• Pool Swim: Measures laps, stroke count, and swim distance. Suitable for tracking workouts in a pool.
• Open Water Swim: Tracks distance, pace, and route. Ideal for swimming in lakes, oceans, or other open water environments.

Tracking Metrics:

• Lap Count: Automatic detection of laps based on movement patterns.
• Stroke Count: Detection of different stroke types and counting.
• Distance: Calculation of the total distance swum.
• Calories Burned: Estimation based on workout intensity and duration.

For the best results, ensure that the watch is properly secured on your wrist to prevent water from entering the device. Also, it is essential to note that while the Apple Watch Series 2 is water-resistant, it is not waterproof in the absolute sense. Prolonged exposure to water, particularly in high-pressure environments, may eventually affect its functionality.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your Apple Watch Series 2 in optimal condition after swimming or water exposure, follow these maintenance tips:

Post-Swim Care:

• Rinse with Fresh Water: After swimming in a pool or the ocean, rinse the watch with fresh water to remove chlorine or salt residue.
• Dry Thoroughly: Wipe the watch with a soft, dry cloth to ensure it is completely dry before putting it away.
• Avoid High Temperatures: Do not expose the watch to extreme heat or leave it in direct sunlight for extended periods.

General Maintenance:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean the watch band and case regularly to prevent the buildup of grime and sweat.
• Check for Wear: Inspect the watch for any signs of damage or wear, particularly around the seals and buttons.

By following these simple steps, you can help ensure that your Apple Watch Series 2 remains in good working condition for a longer period, even with regular use in water.

Comparisons with Other Models

The Apple Watch Series 2's water resistance capability was a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the Series 1, which had only limited splash resistance. It also laid the groundwork for future models, including the Series 3 and Series 4, which continued to improve upon water resistance features. Comparing the Series 2 with later models, it’s evident that while the Series 2 provides substantial protection, newer models offer enhanced features and even greater water resistance.

Key Differences:

• Series 3: Introduced cellular capabilities and improved water resistance up to 50 meters with added durability.
• Series 4 and Later: Continued enhancements in swim tracking, including better sensors and refined algorithms for more accurate measurements.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Series 2 is indeed suitable for swimming, thanks to its water resistance rating of up to 50 meters. With its built-in swimming workout modes and accurate tracking capabilities, it offers a valuable tool for swimmers looking to monitor their performance. However, proper maintenance and care are essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the watch. For users seeking the latest features and advancements in swim tracking, considering newer Apple Watch models might be worthwhile, but the Series 2 remains a robust and reliable option for most swimming needs.

Summary

The Apple Watch Series 2 is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it a good choice for swimming. It features specialized swim tracking modes and accurate measurement of various swimming metrics. Proper maintenance and care are important to preserve the watch's performance over time. Comparatively, newer models offer enhanced features but the Series 2 remains a strong contender for swim tracking.