Top 5 Best Waterproof Apple Watch Cases in 2021 (Catalyst and More)

If you own an Apple Watch 2 or any newer model, you may be wondering if you need a waterproof case. Apple doesn't use the IP rating system (more on IP ratings in our guide below) but they do say that Apple Watches are water-resistant up to 50 meters. So, you can go swimming without a case. But you may want one anyway, and here's why.

The older your watch is, the more likely it is that some of the initial protection offered by its factory seal has deteriorated, which could lead to problems even if you only wear it while swimming or in the rain.

In addition, if you wear your watch during activities that involve high-velocity water splashes, the factory protection is not enough. These activities include things like surfing, waterskiing, diving, and even showering!

Waterproof cases will also offer protection against dust, and some protect from impacts as well. So to keep your watch in tip-top condition, consider a waterproof case.

Here are our picks for the top 5 best waterproof Apple Watch cases! We made our choices based on the points listed in the buying guide below, as well as reviewer comments when available.

We know it's easy to get all wound up trying to find the best waterproof case for your Apple Watch, especially when there are so many options to choose from. In order to choose the right one for you, consider the case's size, IP rating, and materials that it's made out of.

Apple Watches are available in 38, 40, 42, and 44 millimeters. While the difference between sizes may not seem huge, a waterproof case that is too small or large for your Apple Watch will be unusable. A secure fit is the best way to protect your Apple Watch and get the most out of your waterproof case. 

Additionally, make sure you are also aware of which Apple Watch model you have. Waterproof cases are often marketed to specific models of Apple Watches. For example, some waterproof cases are compatible with any Apple Watch model that is 40 millimeters, while others may only be compatible with a Series 2 or Series 3 Apple Watch.

The Ingress Protection Rating, or IP rating, is a combination of two numbers following the letters IP. The first number in the IP rating designates how much protection your electrical device can expect against solids, which are rated on a scale of zero to six.

An IP rating that starts with the number zero or the letter X offers no protection against any solid object or hasn't been tested for it, while one that starts with the number six is dust-tight. Nearly all waterproof cases have an IP rating that starts with the number six. 

The second number in the IP rating designates how much protection it offers against liquids, which it rates on a scale of zero (or X for not tested) to eight. Like with solids, a rating of zero offers no protection against water. The other numerical ratings designate protection against dripping, spraying, splashing, or immersion in water.

Numbers seven and eight offer the best protection. A rating of seven designates protection against immersion in one meter of water for 30 minutes, while a rating of eight designates protection against immersion beyond one meter.

When buying a waterproof case, look for one that has a minimum rating of IP67 to get the most protection for your Apple Watch. 

Waterproof Apple Watch cases are usually made out of different kinds of plastic materials. While these materials are all effective at protecting your Apple Watch from water, each has its own strengths and weaknesses that you should consider.

TPU stands for thermoplastic polyurethane. It is a versatile plastic material that is used in the manufacturing of a wide variety of products, including many waterproof Apple Watch cases.

TPU is flexible enough to hold up against shocks and impacts. It can also resist scratches and is strong enough to endure everyday activities. Additionally, TPU is resistant to liquids, including oil and grease, which adds to its overall durability. However, cases made with this material can sometimes turn yellow over time.

Silicone comes in many forms and has all kinds of uses. Waterproof Apple Watch cases made with this material typically use it in its rubber form. This soft material sits closely against the housing of the watch, which lends itself to preventing water from making contact with your Apple Watch. 

Another added benefit to silicone’s secure fit is that it doesn’t add much bulk to your Apple Watch. However, because silicone cases tend to be thin, they don’t offer much protection against impacts. They also don’t hold up well over time, especially with frequent use or friction. 

This material also gets dirty easily, which means you may find yourself frequently taking the case off to clean it. That dirt, dust, and grime may even find its way onto your Apple Watch.

Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic, just like TPU. This material is popular because of its strength. It is very durable and highly resistant to all kinds of shocks and impacts, so it can hold up to even the toughest activities.

Polycarbonate can also be transparent, which allows it to be used for the screen area of the watch case without being too heavy or fragile. The downside is that polycarbonate cases can scratch easily. 

Waterproof cases have more to offer than just protecting your Apple Watch from water. Look for things like screen protectors and watch bands, which are often sold along with the case.

Additionally, some cases include design features such as raised bezels that further protect your Apple Watch’s screen from shocks, impacts, and wear and tear. 

Whether you want to express your style or protect your favorite Apple products, we've got you covered. Check out the articles below for more of our favorite Apple accessories!

Author: Alexa Nogueira

• Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more mybest recommendations!