Can You Swim with the Pixel Watch 2?

The new Pixel Watch 2 is like a super-powered Fitbit tracker, and it even offers full integration with Fitbit’s apps and services. But, unlike most Fitbit trackers, the Pixel Watch 2 isn’t explicitly advertised as a device for swimmers. The good news is it has a dedicated exercise mode for swimmers and offers the same water resistance as most Fitbit devices. However, here’s what you need to know before you hit the lanes.

Is The Pixel Waterproof?

First and foremost, there’s no such thing as truly “waterproof,” every device will fail when certain conditions are exceeded. Devices are water-resistant (to a point). Google’s Pixel Watch 2 complies with both the IP68 and ATM 5 standards. The IP68 certification, which is commonly associated with smartphones, ensures water resistance at 1.5 meters (about 5 feet) for up to 30 minutes.

For our purposes, the ATM 5 rating is a bit more notable—it shows that the Pixel Watch 2 can withstand water pressure at depths up to 50 meters (about 165 feet). You’re free to swim with the Pixel Watch or clean it in a sink so long as you avoid extreme depth or long-term water exposure. (The first-generation Pixel Watch also complies with ATM 5 and can be used in a swimming pool.)

But, as explained by Google, water resistance “is not a permanent condition” and is lost over time “due to normal wear and tear, repair, disassembly, or damage.” If you drop the Pixel Watch 2 or slam it against the water during a “high-velocity” activity (like jet skiing or competitive diving), it may lose its water resistance. You’re also limited to freshwater swimming, as saltwater is corrosive. Hot water may damage the adhesive that holds the Pixel Watch 2 together, so hot tubs should be avoided. Wearing the Pixel Watch 2 in the shower may lead to a buildup of soap or other product in its speaker grille.

Unfortunately, casual or competitive swimming will slowly contribute to “wear and tear” on the Pixel Watch 2. This is true of all water-resistant smartwatches, though. And there are a few simple ways to mitigate this problem.

Here’s How to Extend the Life of Your Pixel’s Water-Resistance

If your Pixel watch has been exposed to salt water, pool water, or anything other than fresh cool water, you can take some steps to ensure the integrity of the seals and extend the duration of water-resistance they provide. Rinse the Pixel Watch 2 in clean water when you get out of the pool or after similar exposure. Do not use soap or sanitizer to clean it, and then immediately dry it off with a towel. Don’t leave the Pixel Watch 2 submerged for hours on end, especially if you aren’t exercising or keeping track of your heart rate.

And, if you’re a lap swimmer, don’t neglect your technique. The aim of good technique is to limit water resistance—your hands (and Pixel Watch 2) shouldn’t be slamming against the surface with every stroke. (The impact of a clumsy butterfly stroke is nothing when compared to a fumbled high-dive, but we’re talking about cumulative wear and tear. These things add up over time.)

A water-resistant watchband is essential, too. Your watch band won’t fail because you exposed it to water, but woven or leather watchbands will get disgusting after repeated exposure to water, and metal watchbands may corrode or leave a nasty green stain on your wrist (stainless watchbands should be fine but can be difficult to clean).

A water-resistant silicone band is ideal. Just be sure to rinse and dry it after swimming, as residual water won’t do any favors for your skin and can encourage the growth of foul-smelling bacteria.

Remember, the Pixel Watch 2 is a health and fitness device with a dedicated swimming mode. It’s not a Rolex—you don’t need to treat it like a fragile little treasure. And, at some point, the software that keeps the Pixel Watch 2 ticking will stop being supported by Google. If you enjoy swimming, I suggest that you take the Pixel Watch 2 in the pool and enjoy it while you have it. But if you’re afraid of submerging this expensive smartwatch, you could always buy an affordable Fitbit tracker.