When Apple released the Apple Watch in 2015, it emphasised that customisation was a big part of the smartwatch. Not only could you change the Watch face on screen – there are over 40 of these now – but you could change the band as well.
The Watch has a pair of buttons on the underside which sit flush to the casing. Press them and the strap slides out effortlessly. Slide the new one in and it fits perfectly and very securely.
Choose something light and flexible for swimming, a leather band for everyday, or even a dressy metal strap for evening’s out.
There are two sizes of Apple Watch. Originally, these were 38mm and 42mm but now the small and large sizes are 40mm and 44mm. Luckily though your old size straps will still fit the new so there’s no need to start fresh.
However, some of the newest straps are designed to only work with the current size Watches. Note also that a couple of bands are only designed for either large or small Watches, such as the Apple Leather Loop (42 and 44mm) or the Modern Buckle (38mm and 40mm). In other words, check carefully that you have the right size.
Apple Watch solo loop
Available for: 40mm, 44mm only
Apple Watch compatibility: Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Series 4, 5, 6
This is by far the most comfortable, supple and delightful Apple Watch band. It’s one continuous piece of silicone rubber and its softness is tremendous. For Apple Watch to work properly, the heart rate sensor to work, for instance, it needs to fit snugly. As such, the right size is crucial with this band as it’s not adjustable. In Apple Stores, you can try it on, but for online, Apple has designed a clever printable tool or detailed instructions. Importantly, if you use the printable tool and your reading comes up on the line between two sizes, choose the smaller of the two numbers.
The solo loop comes in a range of colours from the sultry (kumquat, pink citrus) to the demure (Cyprus green, northern blue, plum) right through to understated shades, deep navy, black and white. The most eye-catching are red and the deeply gorgeous ginger, which is a real head-turner.
Nomad modern strap
Available for: 42mm, 44mm
Apple Watch compatibility: All Apple Watches, larger sizes only
Nomad’s watch straps are exceptionally good and offer a quality alternative to Apple’s own. The modern strap is made of spectacularly tactile Horween leather that it’s hard to stop stroking. The leather gains an attractive patina over time and comes with two options, for a black or silver buckle so they work with any metal finish. The colour is also matched on the connectors. Highly comfortable and effective.
Apple Milanese loop
Available for: 38mm, 40mm, 42mm, 44mm
Apple Watch compatibility: All Apple Watches
This is one of the dressiest and most elegant of bands, with a clever way of keeping it on your wrist. The mesh strap is beautiful and subtle-looking. It is made of stainless steel and because the end is magnetic, you can adjust it endlessly for the perfect fit. There are three colours, gold, graphite and silver. The graphite finish has a particularly attractive look. The Milanese Loop is lightweight and feels great. It’s not water-resistant, so you’ll need another strap if you take your Watch swimming, for instance.
Lucrin luxury Apple Watch band
Available for: 38mm, 40mm, 42mm, 44mm
Apple Watch compatibility: All Apple Watches
The phrase spoilt for choice could have been written for the Lucrin site. As well as making some of the most luxurious and desirable iPhone cases, the Lucrin Apple Watch straps are sumptuous and highly comfortable. You can choose between 21 smooth leather colours, 14, granulated leather, six vegetable tanned leather, eight shades in crocodile style calfskin and nine in real ostrich leather. Lucrin is known for outstanding craftsmanship, elegant design and strong durability. Many are made to order so can take a week or two.