After you’ve purchased or been gifted an Apple Watch, you’re likely to start ordering another strap almost immediately. This is the most obvious way that you can personalize your new watch (not unlike a phone case for your iPhone). Unfortunately, many customers find out that Apple Watch straps aren’t one-size-fits-all, both literally and figuratively.
Not only will your style preferences likely vary, but one of the most common questions that our customer support receives is about strap sizing. Keep reading for all the best information on how to choose the perfect watch strap for you.
WHAT STRAP MATERIALS ARE AVAILABLE?
You may be surprised at just how many options there are for Apple Watch straps. Before you begin to look, do yourself a favor and narrow down how you plan to use your Apple watch. This is crucial because the style and material should reflect your watch’s use. If you plan to use your Apple watch as an extension of your phone, then opting for a more “professional” looking strap may make sense. However, if you’re planning to use it solely to track your fitness, then you’ll want something comfortable, waterproof, and sweat-resistant.
HERE ARE SOME OF THE MATERIAL OPTIONS
• Leather
• Metal (stainless steel or titanium)
• Nylon
• Silicone
LEATHER
Leather is an ideal strap material because it is soft, comfortable, and stylish. A leather strap is versatile enough for the office, dinner out, or everyday wear. However, if you’re purchasing the Apple Watch for fitness purposes, leather won’t be your go-to. Simply put, sweat and leather don’t mix well. You’re better off selecting a silicone strap for this purpose.
METAL
Metal straps are another classic option. Like leather, opting for a metal strap simulates a more traditional watch look. These straps are durable, hypoallergenic, affordable, durable, and comfortable. You’ll class up your Apple Watch and make it wearable for all occasions (even dressier events!). Both stainless steel and titanium are common metals used in straps.
NYLON
Nylon straps have also become popular. A woven nylon band is a perfect mix between casual and active. The designs that utilize nylon often facilitate comfortable, cushioning, and breathability. It is also water-resistant, which makes it a great choice if you’ll be wearing it daily.
SILICONE
Silicone is a hypoallergenic material that is easy on the skin. Even when you’re sweaty from your workout, you won’t notice any uncomfortable rubbing. It’s also waterproof, which makes it perfect for watersports like surfing and swimming. Rubber straps also share many of these characteristics. If you wanted an Apple Watch to help track your activities in the water, then this is the way to go.
HOW DO I KNOW MY STRAP SIZE?
The common “sizing” mechanism that you’ll encounter when it comes to the Apple Watches are heights – designated in mm. The newer Apple Watch Series 4 to Series 6 models come in 40 mm and 44 mm. However, if you’re interested in buying one of the older models, then you’ll see the sizes 38mm or 42mm.
These numbers denote the size of the bezel – not the size of the strap. Unfortunately, these numbers sometimes confuse individuals who believe that it is a sizing mechanism for the strap. Instead, the sizes are most important when it comes to establishing which watch case is best suited to your wrist. That said, you’ll often see this designation on straps, and you’ll want to make sure you match up your Apple Watch size to whatever strap you’re buying.
When it comes to your actual wrist size, most straps are adjustable, so you don’t have to worry too much about a strap not fitting. The exception are loop bands. These straps are made from a combination of liquid silicone rubber or woven nylon with silicone threads, which makes it smooth, stretchable, and comfortable as well as swim and sweatproof. However, the strap itself isn’t adjustable like the traditional sports strap. Rather, it’s made to stretch over hands (even large hands). Thus, you must measure your wrist size and pick the appropriate size strap before ordering.
In the end, you’ll select a strap that is the right size, material, and style for you. And if it’s not, don’t fret! Apple Watch straps are easy to change and allow you to swap out your style depending on how you’re feeling that day.