Whether you’re swimming laps, heading to the beach or simply want an Apple Watch band that can handle getting wet, choosing the right material makes all the difference.

Not every Apple Watch band is designed for the water. Leather, stainless steel and canvas styles might look great for everyday wear, but when swimming is on the agenda, a waterproof Apple Watch band is the better choice.

For swimming, we recommend one material above all others: silicone.

Here’s what to look for in an Apple Watch band for swimming, plus our favourite styles for the pool, beach and everything in between.

Can You Swim With an Apple Watch?

Many Apple Watch models are designed to be worn while swimming. Apple states that Apple Watch Series 2 and later have a water-resistance rating of 50 metres, while Apple Watch Ultra models offer greater water resistance. However, exact water resistance and suitable activities vary depending on your Apple Watch model, and water resistance can diminish over time.

Before jumping in, it’s always worth checking the water-resistance guidance for your specific Apple Watch.

Your watch might be ready for the water, but your band needs to be too.

What Is the Best Apple Watch Band Material for Swimming?

Silicone

Silicone is our top choice for swimming because it’s:

• Waterproof

• Sweat-resistant

• Lightweight

• Flexible and comfortable

• Easy to clean

• Quick to dry

Unlike materials that absorb water or contain components that aren’t designed for regular immersion, a quality silicone Apple Watch band can transition easily from your swim to the rest of your day.

The Salty Fox silicone bands are made from BPA and PFAS free, ultra-soft, food-grade silicone and are designed to be immersed in water, making them suitable for swimming as well as workouts and everyday wear.

Our Best Apple Watch Bands for Swimming

1. Silicone Sports Apple Watch Bands – Best Overall for Swimming

If swimming and exercise are regular parts of your routine, our Silicone Sports Apple Watch Bands are our top pick.

Designed with movement in mind, they’re waterproof, sweat-resistant, lightweight and flexible, making them ideal for everything from morning laps to gym sessions and weekends at the beach.

The soft silicone construction means you don’t need to swap your band the moment you leave the pool either. Dry it off and it’s ready to keep going.

Best for:
Swimming, gym sessions, running, active lifestyles and everyday wear.

2. Classic Silicone Apple Watch Bands – Best Everyday Swimming Band

Want a waterproof band that doesn’t necessarily look like a dedicated sports band?

Our Classic Silicone Apple Watch Bands are the perfect all-rounder.

Made from ultra-soft food-grade silicone, they’re fully waterproof and sweat-resistant while maintaining a simple, minimal design that works just as easily with your everyday wardrobe. They’re also finished with corrosion-resistant surgical-grade stainless steel hardware.

It means you can wear the same band for your morning swim, errands, work-from-home day and afternoon walk without thinking twice about changing it.

Best for:
Casual swimming, holidays, beach days and anyone looking for one band that does a little bit of everything.

3. Slim Silicone Apple Watch Bands – Best for a Streamlined Fit

Prefer something a little more refined on your wrist?

Our Slim Silicone Apple Watch Bands give you the waterproof benefits of silicone in a slimmer silhouette.

They're made from the same type of ultra-soft, waterproof and sweat-resistant silicone designed to keep up through swims and workouts, while the narrower profile creates a more delicate everyday look.

It’s a great option if you want a practical swimming band without the chunkier appearance associated with some traditional sports bands.

Best for:
Smaller wrists, everyday wear, casual swimming and anyone who prefers a slimmer Apple Watch band.

What Apple Watch Bands Should You Avoid for Swimming?

Just because a band can survive the occasional splash doesn’t necessarily mean it should be worn for a full swim.

For regular swimming, we recommend choosing one of our silicone styles rather than bands made from materials such as leather, resin, metal or fabric.

For example, our Nylon Loop bands are splash-proof and sweat-resistant rather than designed for regular immersion, while the metal pins and clasp inside our resin bands aren't designed to be submerged.

Apple similarly advises that certain leather and stainless-steel Apple Watch bands aren't recommended for use in water.

Keep your dressier bands for work, dinner and everyday styling, and switch to silicone when it’s time to swim.

Swimming in a Pool vs the Ocean

A waterproof silicone Apple Watch band is a practical choice whether you're heading to the pool or swimming at the beach.

The most important step comes after your swim.

Once you’re out of the water, dry your silicone band rather than leaving moisture trapped between the band and your skin. This can help minimise rubbing and irritation and keep your wrist comfortable.

It’s a small habit that makes your Apple Watch much more comfortable to wear throughout the rest of the day.

Don't Forget Water Lock

If your Apple Watch supports swimming workouts, Water Lock can help prevent accidental touches on your display while you're in the water.

Water Lock automatically activates when you begin certain water-based workouts. Once you're finished, you can turn Water Lock off, and your Apple Watch will play a series of tones to eject water remaining in the speaker.

Remember that Water Lock protects against accidental screen input, it doesn't make a watch more water-resistant than its original rating.

FAQs About Apple Watch Bands for Swimming

What is the best Apple Watch band for swimming?

We recommend silicone Apple Watch bands for swimming because they're waterproof, lightweight, flexible and quick to dry. For regular swimmers, a Silicone Sports Apple Watch Band is our top choice.

Are silicone Apple Watch bands waterproof?

The Salty Fox Classic Silicone, Silicone Sports and Slim Silicone Apple Watch Bands are designed to be immersed in water and can be worn while swimming.

Can I swim with a nylon Apple Watch band?

Our Nylon Loop Apple Watch Bands are splash-proof and sweat-resistant, but they aren't our first choice for swimming. If you expect your band to be regularly submerged, choose silicone instead.

Should I dry my Apple Watch band after swimming?

Yes. We recommend drying your silicone Apple Watch band after swimming so moisture isn't left trapped between your wrist and the band.

Find Your Apple Watch Band for Swimming

The best swimming band is one you don't have to think about.

Choose a waterproof silicone Apple Watch band that can handle the pool, beach, workouts and everyday wear, without sacrificing comfort or your personal style.

Explore our Apple Watch Bands for Swimming and find your new go-to for days in and out of the water.