Can You Wear the Series 3 Apple Watch While Swimming?

The Apple Watch Series 3, introduced by Apple in September 2017, is celebrated for its versatility and affordability compared to its successors. One of the notable features of this model is its water resistance. However, to fully understand how well it performs in aquatic environments, especially during swimming, we need to delve into the specifics of its design and functionality.

Water Resistance Rating

The Apple Watch Series 3 comes with a water resistance rating of 50 meters under ISO standard 22810:2010. This rating indicates that the watch is designed to withstand splashes, rain, and submersion in water up to 50 meters deep. This makes it suitable for swimming in shallow water, such as in a pool or open water environments.

Swimming with the Series 3 Apple Watch

1. Swim Tracking Capabilities

   The Series 3 Apple Watch includes built-in swim tracking capabilities. It can track your laps, distance, and duration during your swim sessions. It uses an accelerometer and gyroscope to detect your arm movements and calculates metrics such as strokes per lap, distance swum, and average lap pace. This feature is particularly useful for swimmers who want to monitor their performance and progress over time.

2. Durability and Safety

   While the Series 3 is designed to be water-resistant, it’s important to understand that this does not make it impervious to damage from water. The watch is suitable for regular swimming activities, but prolonged exposure to saltwater, chlorinated water, or hot water (such as in a sauna or hot tub) could potentially affect its longevity and performance. To ensure the best care, it's advisable to rinse the watch with fresh water after swimming and dry it thoroughly.

3. Water Ejection Feature

   After swimming, the Apple Watch Series 3 has a water ejection feature that helps expel any remaining water from the watch's speaker. This function is activated by turning the Digital Crown, which also locks the screen to prevent accidental interactions while the watch is wet. This feature is useful in ensuring that your watch remains operational and free from water damage after swimming.

Comparison with Newer Models

Comparing the Series 3 to newer models like the Series 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, there are several advancements. Newer models offer enhanced water resistance, with some being rated for deeper depths and having additional features for underwater activities. They also include more advanced swim tracking metrics and better durability under extreme conditions. For example, the Apple Watch Series 7 and later models feature more advanced sensors and software for precise swim tracking and better resistance to water damage.

Real-World Experiences

Many users have found the Apple Watch Series 3 to be a reliable companion for their swimming activities. The watch’s ability to accurately track swim metrics and its ease of use in wet conditions are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. However, some users have reported that over time, the watch’s performance may degrade due to exposure to pool chemicals or saltwater. Regular maintenance, such as rinsing and drying, is recommended to prolong the watch's lifespan.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Series 3 is indeed suitable for swimming, thanks to its 50-meter water resistance rating and built-in swim tracking capabilities. While it performs well for most swimming activities, it is important to take care of the watch by rinsing it with fresh water and avoiding prolonged exposure to harsh conditions. For those looking for more advanced swim tracking features or enhanced durability, considering a newer model might be beneficial.