Can Apple Watch Series 3 Be Used for Swimming?

Water Resistance Rating

Apple Watch Series 3 is rated as water-resistant up to 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010. This means that it is suitable for shallow-water activities like swimming in a pool or ocean. However, it is not recommended for high-velocity water activities such as scuba diving or water skiing. The water resistance rating is an essential feature for swimmers, as it allows them to track their workouts without worrying about water damage.

Swim Tracking Features

The Apple Watch Series 3 comes equipped with dedicated swim tracking features. These features allow users to monitor various metrics such as lap count, distance, and stroke type. It can also track calories burned during a swim session, making it an excellent tool for both casual swimmers and those who swim for fitness.

• Pool Swim: In this mode, the Apple Watch Series 3 uses its accelerometer to track your movement and calculate the number of laps, distance, and total time spent swimming. It also identifies the type of stroke you are using, whether it's freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, or butterfly.
• Open Water Swim: For those who prefer swimming in natural bodies of water, the Apple Watch Series 3 utilizes GPS to track your swim. It records the route, distance, and average pace, providing a comprehensive overview of your open water workouts.

Water Lock Feature

One of the standout features of the Apple Watch Series 3 is the Water Lock. This feature automatically activates when you start a swim workout. It locks the screen to prevent accidental taps caused by water. Once you're done swimming, you can manually turn off the Water Lock by turning the Digital Crown. This action ejects any water that may have entered the watch's speaker, ensuring that the device remains functional and free from moisture.

Performance and Durability

While the Apple Watch Series 3 is designed to handle water exposure, it's essential to note that water resistance is not a permanent condition. Over time, water resistance can diminish due to wear and tear or damage. To maintain the watch's durability, it's recommended to avoid exposing it to soaps, shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and perfumes, as these substances can degrade the water seals and acoustic membranes.

Moreover, it's crucial to rinse the watch with fresh water after swimming in saltwater or chlorinated pools. This practice helps to remove any corrosive substances that could harm the watch's components over time.

Battery Life Considerations

When using the Apple Watch Series 3 for swimming, it's important to consider battery life. The watch's battery can last up to 18 hours on a full charge, but this can vary depending on how it's used. Intensive use of GPS and swim tracking features can drain the battery more quickly. Swimmers planning long sessions should ensure their watch is fully charged before diving in.

User Experience and Reviews

Many users have praised the Apple Watch Series 3 for its swim tracking capabilities. The watch provides accurate data, and the Water Lock feature is particularly appreciated for keeping the device functional during swims. Users also value the watch's integration with the Apple Health app, allowing them to store and analyze their swim data over time.

However, some users have reported issues with the touch screen becoming unresponsive after prolonged exposure to water. While this is not a common complaint, it highlights the importance of following Apple's guidelines for water resistance.

Comparisons with Other Models

Compared to later models like the Apple Watch Series 4 and Series 5, the Series 3 offers similar swim tracking features but at a more affordable price. However, the newer models include additional health monitoring features, such as ECG and fall detection, which are not available in the Series 3.

For those primarily interested in swim tracking, the Series 3 remains a viable option. It offers a balance of functionality and cost, making it accessible to a broader range of users.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Apple Watch Series 3 is indeed suitable for swimming, provided users adhere to the recommended guidelines. Its water resistance, swim tracking features, and user-friendly interface make it an excellent companion for swimmers. Whether you’re a competitive swimmer or someone who enjoys the occasional dip in the pool, the Apple Watch Series 3 offers the tools you need to track and improve your performance.

Important reminders include regularly checking for software updates, as Apple often releases enhancements to improve the watch's performance and water resistance capabilities. Ensuring that the watch is securely fastened before entering the water can also prevent accidental loss during vigorous swimming activities.