The Oura Ring is one of the most popular wearables for tracking health and wellness, known for its sleek design and powerful features. However, one question that many potential buyers often ask is, “Is the Oura Ring waterproof?” This is an important question since the ring is worn all day and night, and people want to ensure it can handle various environmental conditions, from washing hands to sweaty workouts, or even swimming.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the water resistance of the Oura Ring, what it can handle, how to take care of it, and what the company says about its waterproof capabilities. Whether you are a prospective buyer or a current user, this post will answer all your questions about the Oura Ring’s durability in water.
What Is the Oura Ring? A Quick Overview
Before we dive into the water resistance details, let’s first take a moment to understand what the Oura Ring is and what makes it so popular.
The Oura Ring is a smart wearable device designed to track key health metrics such as:
- Sleep: It provides detailed sleep analysis, tracking sleep stages (deep sleep, REM, and light sleep).
- Activity: It monitors daily physical activity, steps, calories burned, and provides feedback on your movement.
- Heart Rate: The ring measures heart rate, resting heart rate (RHR), and heart rate variability (HRV).
- Temperature: It tracks body temperature changes, helping you understand fluctuations due to factors like exercise, stress, or illness.
All these features are packed into a small, elegant ring that fits comfortably on your finger, making it a popular choice for those who want comprehensive health tracking without the bulkiness of traditional wearables like smartwatches.
Is the Oura Ring Waterproof? Understanding Water Resistance
The Oura Ring is water-resistant, but it is not fully waterproof. Water resistance means that the ring can handle some exposure to water but should not be submerged for long periods. It’s important to note that waterproof implies a level of protection against water that allows the device to be submerged or exposed to water without any risk of damage, which is not the case with the Oura Ring.
Oura Ring’s Water Resistance Rating
The Oura Ring has a water resistance rating of 5 ATM, which means it can withstand pressure equivalent to a depth of 50 meters (164 feet). This rating is based on the ISO 22810 standard, which is commonly used to measure water resistance in wristwatches and other wearables. To put it in perspective:
- 5 ATM water resistance means the ring can handle:
- Rain and splashing water.
- Washing hands.
- Sweat from physical activities like workouts or running.
- Short-term exposure to water, such as getting caught in the rain or swimming briefly in shallow water.
However, Oura advises against submerging the ring in hot water or using it in situations where the water pressure could exceed the 5 ATM rating, such as swimming in deep water or using it in a sauna.
What Does the 5 ATM Rating Mean for Everyday Use?
For most everyday situations, a 5 ATM rating is more than sufficient. You can wear your Oura Ring while:
- Washing your hands.
- Taking a shower (as long as the water isn’t too hot).
- Sweating during workouts.
- Getting caught in the rain.
It’s important to note that while the Oura Ring can handle some water exposure, you should avoid intentionally submerging it in water for extended periods, such as swimming in a pool or taking a bath.
Can I Wear the Oura Ring in the Shower?
One of the most common questions users have is whether they can wear the Oura Ring in the shower. Since the ring is water-resistant with a 5 ATM rating, it is safe to wear the Oura Ring in the shower, as long as the water temperature isn’t too hot. Hot water and steam can potentially damage the ring’s internal components, so it’s best to avoid exposing the Oura Ring to extremely hot water, such as in saunas, hot tubs, or very hot showers.
It’s also a good idea to ensure that the charging port (where the ring connects to the charging dock) stays dry, as prolonged exposure to moisture could lead to malfunctioning over time.
Can I Swim with My Oura Ring?
While the Oura Ring is water-resistant, swimming is not recommended, especially for long durations or in deep water. Here’s why:
- The 5 ATM rating means the Oura Ring can handle shallow water or quick immersion, but it is not designed to withstand constant submersion in water over time.
- Swimming in a pool or in saltwater can potentially damage the ring, as saltwater can be more corrosive, and prolonged exposure to water can wear down its protective coatings.
That said, if you accidentally get the Oura Ring wet while swimming, there’s no need to panic. It should handle the exposure just fine, but avoid doing so regularly or intentionally. If you are an avid swimmer, you might want to explore more waterproof alternatives designed specifically for constant submersion.
What About Sauna Use or Hot Tubs?
The Oura Ring should not be worn in a sauna or a hot tub. Extreme heat can cause damage to the materials inside the ring, and it may also interfere with the sensors that monitor your body temperature and other metrics. Steam and hot water can be harmful, not just for the electronics but also for the battery life of the Oura Ring.
How to Take Care of Your Oura Ring and Protect It from Water Damage
While the Oura Ring is water-resistant, it is always best to take a few extra precautions to ensure that the ring lasts as long as possible:
1. Avoid Excessive Exposure to Water
Although the Oura Ring can withstand short periods of water exposure, it’s still wise to avoid intentionally submerging it in water for extended periods. This includes avoiding activities like swimming, bathing, or using the ring in extremely humid environments.
2. Keep It Dry When Not in Use
After exposing your Oura Ring to water, such as during a workout or shower, dry it off gently with a soft cloth. Keeping the ring dry after water exposure can help prevent any potential issues with moisture buildup around the sensors or charging port.
3. Be Mindful of Hot Water
As mentioned earlier, hot water and steam can damage the Oura Ring. Avoid wearing the ring in hot tubs, saunas, or during very hot showers. If you need to remove the ring for such activities, it’s better to take it off temporarily to avoid any long-term damage.
4. Use a Soft Cloth for Cleaning
To clean the Oura Ring, use a soft, dry cloth to wipe off any dirt, sweat, or moisture. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could scratch or damage the surface.
What Happens If the Oura Ring Gets Wet?
If your Oura Ring does get wet due to a rainstorm, accidental splash, or brief swim, it is generally safe to use as long as the water exposure is not prolonged. If you accidentally drop the ring in water or it gets wet during regular use, follow these steps:
- Remove the Ring from Water Immediately: If you drop it in water, retrieve it as soon as possible.
- Dry the Ring: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to dry the ring.
- Avoid Charging Until Dry: If the ring has been exposed to water, do not attempt to charge it until it is completely dry, especially around the charging port.
- Check for Damage: If the Oura Ring continues to show signs of malfunction after getting wet, contact customer support.
What Do Experts Say About the Oura Ring’s Durability?
Experts generally praise the Oura Ring for its solid build quality and water resistance. The 5 ATM water resistance rating is sufficient for most daily tasks and light water exposure. However, it’s important to understand that no wearable, including the Oura Ring, is completely immune to water damage if exposed to extreme conditions over extended periods
Conclusion: Is the Oura Ring Waterproof?
The Oura Ring is water-resistant but not waterproof. With a 5 ATM rating, the ring can withstand most everyday water exposures, such as washing hands, sweating during a workout, and light rain. However, it is not designed for prolonged submersion, such as swimming or using it in hot water like in saunas or hot tubs.
To ensure the longevity of your Oura Ring, avoid exposing it to extreme water conditions. While it’s durable and resistant to water, it’s best to remove the ring during activities like swimming or hot showers to protect its integrity and functionality.
If you’re looking for a health tracker that you can wear in the shower or while swimming frequently, the Oura Ring may not be the best fit. However, for most users, the Oura Ring’s water resistance is more than sufficient for daily wear and water exposure during regular activities.
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