Waterproof Apple Watch Bands for Swimming: What Works

Can you swim with an Apple Watch? Yes. Every Apple Watch from Series 2 onwards is rated water resistant to 50 metres, which Apple says is fine for swimming in a pool or the sea. It's not suitable for diving or high-speed water sports; that's what the Ultra, rated to 100 metres, is for. So the watch is rarely the weak point. The strap is.

The short answer: swim in silicone. It's waterproof, it doesn't absorb water, and it's dry within minutes of getting out. A nylon sport loop will survive a swim but stays wet for a while afterwards. Leave leather, Milanese mesh and link bracelets on dry land. Apple itself lists those as not water resistant.

Waterproof or Water Resistant? What It Means for a Strap

For the watch, "water resistant" is a rating with limits: depth, pressure, and how long it's under. For a strap, it's simpler. Does the material soak up water or not?

Silicone and rubber don't. Water sits on the surface and wipes off, so for practical purposes they're waterproof.

Fabric does. Nylon and braided straps won't be damaged immediately by a swim, but they hold water, feel heavy and damp afterwards, and take a while to dry. Braided elastic straps can start to stretch if they get wet and then dry often.

Leather really does. It soaks up water, then stiffens, stains, stretches and eventually smells.

Metal doesn't absorb anything, but chlorine and salt get into mesh weaves, clasps and magnets, and Apple doesn't rate its own Milanese Loop or link bracelets as water resistant.

So when people search for a "waterproof Apple Watch band", what they need is a silicone or rubber one. Here's how the main types compare in the water.

The Perfect Apple Watch Strap for Swimming

When selecting a strap for swimming, it is imperative to consider its durability and resistance to water – clearly.

After all, one must maintain both form and function when gliding through water. Allow us to present to you our rather refined list of Apple Watch bands suited for your swimming endeavours:

1. Silicone Bands

First, let us turn to the much trusted Silicone bands.

For us, silicone offers a high degree of flexibility and comfort, ideal for those intensive extended swimming sessions.

As a material, silicone dries very quickly and is resistant to wear and tear, ensuring that your band remains unscathed by both freshwater and seawater adventures.

It is also easily washable – allowing you to keep it in immaculate condition even after multiple uses. 

Any decent silicone strap is waterproof by nature, so don't pay extra for a "water-resistant" label. What matters more is how it fastens. A pin-and-tuck closure, where the end of the strap tucks under itself, stays put when you push off the wall. Our Classic Silicone strap (£14.99) is the one we'd choose for the pool. Our two-tone Silicone Sport straps (£15.99) are described on their product page as sweatproof and waterproof, and you'll find both in our Apple Watch sports straps.

2. Nylon and Woven Bands

Though perhaps less obvious, certain Nylon bands can serve as companions for swimming if they are designed specifically to repel water.

They're light and breathable, but a word of caution: nylon absorbs water. Some weaves dry quickly, while others stay damp for an hour or more, which is fine after a dip on holiday and annoying after a lunchtime swim before going back to your desk.

Opt for a water-resistant nylon option, and be sure to dry it thoroughly after your swim to avoid discomfort.

The same goes for braided elastic straps. They're among the comfiest straps you can wear on dry land, but they hold water and take a longer time to dry, so they're not what we'd choose for swimming lengths. Swap to silicone for the pool and put the braided strap back on afterwards. It takes ten seconds.

3. Stainless Steel and Metal Bands

While Stainless Steel or Metal Bands may add a certain sophistication to your wardrobe, they are generally less suited for swimming.

Stainless steel copes with a splash, but Apple doesn't rate its Milanese Loop or Link Bracelet as water resistant, and chlorine and salt work their way into the mesh, the clasp and the magnets. Our Milanese straps are the same: lovely at the office, not for the pool.

Therefore, should you seek the elegance of metal, it is best saved for land-based pursuits.

After the Swim: Two Minutes That Make Your Strap Last

Chlorine and salt are harder on straps than water is. A short routine after each swim keeps a silicone strap soft and stops it fading:

• Rinse the watch and strap under fresh tap water, especially after the sea or a chlorinated pool. Apple recommends this for the watch, too.
• Clear the speaker. If you used Water Lock (it switches on automatically when you start a swim workout), turning it off pushes the water out.
• Take the strap off for a minute and dry the connector slot on the watch, where water and grit collect.
• Dry everything with a soft, lint-free cloth. Never use a radiator or hairdryer, because heat ages silicone faster than water does.

If you swim a lot, keep a dedicated strap in your swim bag. It saves your everyday strap from a daily chlorine bath, and at £14.99 it's cheaper than a new pair of goggles.

Enhancing and Accentuating Your Apple Watch

Beyond functionality, the strap of an Apple Watch offers a marvellous opportunity for self-expression.

To us, an Apple Watch strap for swimming is not merely a functional accessory – it is an extension of your very own style, a reflection of your taste, and a statement in itself.

With this in mind, how might one elevate the look of their Apple Watch?

1. Colour Coordination

One of the simplest ways to accentuate your Apple Watch is to choose a strap that complements your attire.

Whether you are pairing it with a swimsuit or an evening ensemble, consider matching or contrasting colours for a polished appearance.

Our silicone straps come in a variety of hues, allowing you to express your individual style while maintaining practicality. If you’re feeling bold, a bright-coloured strap could add a playful touch to your swim-ready attire.

2. Textures and Patterns

If solid colours do not sufficiently capture your flair, consider textured or patterned bands.

Woven nylon straps, for example, are available in intricate patterns that add depth and visual interest to your wrist.

Silicone straps, too, can be found with embossed textures or even dual-tone designs, offering an elevated and distinguished look without compromising on water resistance.

3. Personalised Touches

In our view, customisation is key when tailoring your look.

We don't offer engraving, but with more than 50 silicone Apple Watch straps in solid colours and two-tones, it's easy to find one that feels like yours. A bright one is easier to spot in the bottom of a gym bag, too.

The Case for Alternative Supplier Watch Bands

Do you need Apple's own band to swim in? No.

If you’ve ever considered expanding your collection beyond Apple's offerings, you will be pleased to know that third-party watch bands are not only more affordable but often rival the quality of Apple’s original bands.

The Thrifty Gentleman

At The Thrifty Gentleman, we take pride in offering a diverse range of third-party Apple Watch straps that serve as delightful alternatives to the more expensive Apple-branded options.

For instance, while Apple's own Sport Band is quite renowned, our silicone straps are crafted with the same level of durability, flexibility, and water resistance.

In our view, these bands are simply perfect for swimming, without the need to pay a premium for the brand name.

Moreover, when it comes to style, our third-party watch bands offer an even wider variety of designs, colours, and finishes – meaning you can find the perfect strap that not only suits your swimming needs but also expresses your personal aesthetic.

Whether you prefer a sleek, minimalist look or something more ornate, The Thrifty Gentleman ensures that you do not have to compromise on style or practicality.

One of the most attractive aspects of third-party straps is the price point.

Our silicone Apple Watch straps start at £14.99, with free UK delivery and 60-day returns, so trying one for swimming costs very little.

One thing to get right: Apple Watch straps aren't one-size-fits-all. They're made for groups of case sizes, so order the one that matches the size engraved on the back of your watch. If you're not sure, email us with your model and we'll tell you which to get. It's one of the most common questions we answer.

Apple Watch Strap for Swimming – Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the perfect Apple Watch strap for swimming need not be a challenge, and the right strap can enhance both your style and performance.

Whether you opt for one of our silicone options, or one of our nylon straps, there is a world of choice available to you.

And when it comes to adding a touch of personal flair, colour coordination, textures, and patterns can transform your watch into a sophisticated statement.

Lastly, for those seeking value and variety, we wholeheartedly recommend exploring our wealth of options available at The Thrifty Gentleman.

Not only will you find an array of high-quality straps, but you will also enjoy the satisfaction of acquiring a product that combines practicality with timeless elegance.

In short: swim in silicone, keep leather and mesh for dry land, and give everything a rinse after the pool. If you'd like help choosing, just email us. And for the other 23 hours of the day, our guide to the most comfortable Apple Watch band goes through the options.

Swimming with an Apple Watch: FAQs

What is the best Apple Watch band for swimming?

Silicone. It doesn't absorb water, it dries in minutes, and a pin-and-tuck closure stays secure in the pool.

Is there a waterproof Apple Watch band?

Silicone and rubber bands are effectively waterproof, because they don't absorb water. Fabric, leather and mesh bands aren't.

Can I swim with a nylon Sport Loop or a braided band?

You can, but it soaks up water and stays damp for a while afterwards. Additionally if a braided band gets wet and then dries often, it may start to elongate and stretch more permanently reducing its wearability. For regular swimming, silicone is more comfortable.

Can I wear my Apple Watch in the sea?

Yes, if it's a Series 2 or later. Apple rates those for swimming in a pool or the ocean. Rinse the watch and strap in fresh water afterwards, because salt is harder on both than water is.

Is a leather Apple Watch strap waterproof?

No. Leather absorbs water, then stiffens, stains and smells. Take it off before you swim or shower.