Can you take a quick dip in the pool with your AirPods Pro 3? No, and Apple is clear about this. The IP57 rating sounds impressive, but it's not meant for swimming.
What IP57 Really Means: The "7" indicates they can handle submersion in about 3 feet of water for 30 minutes. But that's tested with still, fresh water in a lab. Not a swimming pool. Not the ocean. Not while you're doing laps.
Why Swimming Is Different:
| Factor | Problem | |--------|---------| | Pool water | Chlorine damages seals | | Ocean water | Salt is corrosive | | Swimming motion | Creates pressure exceeding rating | | Heat/humidity | Sauna and steam damage components |
Apple's Restrictions:
- Don't swim with your AirPods
- Don't shower with them
- Don't use in saunas
- Don't expose to high-velocity water
What IP57 Actually Handles:
- Getting caught in rain
- Sweaty workouts
- Brief splashes
- Accidental drops in puddles
If You Need Earbuds for Swimming: Look for earbuds specifically designed for swimming with IP68 ratings and "waterproof" (not just "water resistant") labels. Brands like Shokz and JBL make swimming-specific models.
Bottom Line: Your $249 earbuds are not pool toys. Water damage from swimming isn't covered by Apple's warranty. Use them at the gym, and get dedicated waterproof earbuds for the pool.
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How we researched this
Where this comes from: this answer draws on the product's published specifications and the reviews ShopSavvy collected for it, alongside prices from 1 retailer in ShopSavvy's price data, most recently seen Oct 16, 2026.
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