Apple Watches have become a common sight in lineups, giving surfers insights on their sessions, wave counts, and local conditions. Whether you’ve just picked one up or you’ve been surfing with one for months, here’s everything you need to know about making the most of your watch in the water.

Setting up your watch for surfing

First things first, you need to protect your watch. While every model since the Series 2 is water-resistant to 50 meters, salt water is particularly harsh on electronics. Give your watch a quick rinse in fresh water after each surf, and make sure to clear the speaker using the water ejection feature (swipe up to Control Center and tap the water droplet icon).

The band you use matters too. The standard silicone sport band works well, but many surfers prefer the extra security of the velcro sport loop or a specialized surf band. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s snug. You don’t want your watch flying off in a wipeout.

Getting the right apps

Apple Workout and Fitness app

Before you paddle out, load up your watch with the right apps. The built-in Workout app has a surfing mode that tracks basics like duration, heart rate, and calories, but dedicated surf apps offer much more detailed tracking.

Third-party apps can measure wave count, speed, distance paddled, and even analyze your maneuvers. Many also integrate tide tables, wind data, and swell forecasts right on your wrist. Check out our complete roundup of the best apps for surfers to find the perfect ones for your needs.

Essential features for every session

Your Apple Watch comes packed with features that make every surf session better. Water Lock automatically engages during surf workouts, preventing accidental screen touches from water droplets. The Noise app can warn you about dangerous wave conditions, while the Compass app helps you stay oriented when you’re far outside.

Emergency features like Fall Detection and Emergency SOS can be literal lifesavers if something goes wrong. Make sure these are set up before you surf, especially if you’re heading out alone or in remote spots. The cellular models can make emergency calls even without your phone nearby – worth considering if you frequently surf alone.

Before you paddle out

Getting ready for a surf session with your Apple Watch takes just a few steps:

Place your watch where you can easily see it while surfing. Most people prefer wearing it on the inside of their wrist to protect the screen from board impacts and make it easier to check while paddling.

Making use of tracking data

Once you’re tracking your sessions, you’ll start building up a wealth of data about your surfing. Time spent paddling versus riding waves, average wave length, top speeds—it’s all recorded. Don’t just collect this info though – use it to improve.

Understanding your metrics

Regular session tracking shows patterns in your surfing. Maybe you catch more waves in certain conditions, or your longest rides come at specific spots. This data helps you make better decisions about when and where to surf.

Improving your performance

Watch your trends over time. Are you catching more waves per session? Spending more time on the face? These metrics can highlight areas where you’re improving and aspects that need work.

Sharing with friends

Most surf apps let you share your sessions, creating friendly competition and motivation. Just remember – sometimes the best sessions are the ones where you forget about the numbers and just enjoy the waves.

Looking after your watch

Salt water is tough on electronics, so proper care extends your watch’s life. Always rinse with fresh water after surfing, paying special attention to the Digital Crown and speakers. Use the water ejection feature even after rinsing – better safe than sorry.

Keep an eye on your band too. Salt and sun can degrade materials over time, so inspect it regularly for signs of wear. A broken band means a lost watch, so replace it at the first signs of damage.

Going watch-free

Your Apple Watch is a tool, not a necessity. Some of the best sessions happen when you leave the tech on shore and just focus on the waves. There’s nothing wrong with tracking your surfing, but don’t let it distract from what matters – having fun in the water.

The watch’s features are impressive, but they’re no substitute for experience and common sense. Always check conditions before paddling out, respect local knowledge, and never surf alone in challenging conditions, regardless of what tech you’re wearing.

Surfing with your Apple Watch

Your Apple Watch adds another dimension to surfing, but nothing beats time in the water. If you’re ready to catch more waves, our surf camps in Bali, Portugal, Morocco, Nicaragua and Costa Rica put you right where you need to be—in perfect waves with expert coaching. Whether you’re tracking your progress or just going with the flow, we’ll help you become the surfer you want to be.

Check out our ultimate guide to surfing camps.

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