The 9 Best Apple Watch Bands for Men, Tested by Tech and Gear Editors

Nomad has developed a solid reputation (and earned our admiration) as a company that crafts excellent products and stands behind them. So, too, with the simply named Nomad Modern Band. The latest version fits almost every Apple Watch, old and new. As with many of the brand’s products, the minimalist design is both modern and timeless. The Horween leather is sourced from one of the country’s oldest tanneries and minimally treated, so it naturally develops a rich patina that only looks better over time.

It’s pricier than some other options on this list. But, as with many Nomad-branded goods, you get what you pay for. This is a unique, beautifully designed Apple Watch band for men that stands out among a sea of lackluster third-party also-rans. The Horween Leather construction and stainless steel lugs and buckle give it a durable, rugged appearance that’s equally at home in the boardroom, at cocktail parties, and on the trail. An equally good-looking, “ordinary” leather version is available for a bit less if you’re minding your budget.

Read more: Best Apple Watch Ultra Bands

The Nike Sport Loop is a breathable, lightweight band that’s easy to strap on thanks to its secure, dead-simple hook-and-loop fastener. Those who choose the Sport Loop are usually converts from the Nike Sport Band, as they’ve decided they enjoy the Nike Sport Loop’s nylon weave better than the rubber materials of the Nike Sport Band.

Is the Nike Sport Loop better than the Nike Sport Band? For us, it comes down to personal preference. The Nike Sport Loop is great because it doesn’t trap sweat and get slippery like the Nike Sport Band does at times. The Nike Sport Loop, however, can get abrasive if it starts to rub when you’re sweating. So, some discomfort can occur if you find your band shifting and moving. But remember, lighter, breathable, and more secure is the motto for the Nike Sport Loop. It’s never a bad time to try one for yourself.

Cut from premium leather and sewn in the U.S., this leather strap exudes the same premium qualities one would find on any Shinola watch. A space grey metal clasp is added to the band to match any space grey Apple Watch case. As for sizing, you can buy the Shinola strap in a 38mm/40mm or a 42mm/44mm.

It’s a premium brand with a premium price, for sure. But if you’re looking for a black leather strap, then the chances are you probably want to wear your Apple Watch in a more casual—and even more formal— setting. This strap is similar to all the premium leather straps Shinola makes, so you’re going to feel the leather break in over time and get more comfortable around your wrist as it shapes. You won’t see any stitching popping out, and you certainly won’t see the leather fade or warp. This is one of the finest leather Apple Watch straps around, so if you’re looking for something sleek that will last a long time, then this is a solid pick.

Urban Armor Gear (UAG) has been a go-to favorite of ours here at Men’s Health for its dang-near-bulletproof iPhone cases, among other things. The brand’s Scout Plus Watch Strap is no different. Made with a soft-touch TPU rubber that’s lightweight and tough as nails, the band is made to handle all-day wear and tear—all while staying comfortable on the wrist.

The one-body design adds protection around the case and ensures a more secure fit of the watch. The downside of this strap is it only sizes to 45mm Apple Watch case. The counterpoint to this downside is you can pivot to several other Urban Armor Gear Apple Watch bands similar to the Scout Plus strap. Take it hiking, biking, rock climbing, breakdancing—whatever you’re into—you’ll know your Apple Watch is safe.

We’ve been fans of Bellroy’s wallets, laptop sleeves, and backpacks for years, largely due to their handsome, modern aesthetic. So, too, with the brand’s simply named Watch Strap. Like every product in Bellroy’s catalog, the sleek, curvy design of this Apple Watch band works well with any personal style. The eco-tanned leather band is available in three tasteful colors and develops a rich, one-of-a-kind patina over time. Plus, the construction is bolstered with a durable polymer to ensure that it’s built to survive everyday wear, long days at the office, and more intense outdoor pursuits. A textured underside also provides better sweat and moisture management than 100% leather watchbands.

There’s little to dislike about this band. Given the understated and sophisticated design, hybrid construction materials that add durability, moisture management capability, and available colorways, we think it’s easily the sleekest Apple Watch band this year. Plus, the three-year warranty is among the best of any band on the market.

Read more: Best Wallets for Men

The Milanese Loop is a fan-favorite among Apple Watch users for its lightweight feel and sleek, put-together look. The band is Italian-made and woven into a smooth, stainless steel mesh. It feels like a fine dress watch but is less stuffy, more flexible, and free.

The downside of the Milanese Loop is the cost, plus the fact you are limited to wearing the band casually or with formal attire (no activity). Alas, the fact you get such a quality blend of comfort with a beautiful and unique design is worth investigating further. It’s shiny, sure, but also quite elegant without being overstated.

Casetify has ax expansive lineup of Apple Watch bands in all sorts of fun and exciting designs. They range from cool retro looks (like this band pictured above) to limited-edition bands from collaborations with TV shows like The Mandalorian and pop music groups like BTS.

The price point of most of Casetify’s watch bands is fairly reasonable (about $50 on average). The only qualm we have is the limited-edition bands sell out fast, which can be a bummer when there’s a collab we love. But overall, we love this band, especially aligned with an Apple Watch Ultra 2.

LifeProof has been making these eco-friendly bands through several Apple Watch iterations now. We love the simplicity of the design and the fact each band is made from 99% ocean plastic yarn—it’s the most eco-friendly watch band we’ve found.

This band comes in a bunch of cool colors to choose from and fits all Apple Watch models from the Series 3 and up. The water-resistant design has a simple buckle closure that fits tight on the wrist. You might have some discomfort wearing the band for extended hours at a time. But considering the materials used and the fact the band is incredibly affordable, it’s well worth an addition to any Apple Watch band collection.

Pros

• Breathable
• Comfortable for long wears during adventures
• Lightweight
• Made from quality recycled materials
• Ultra-compatible with Apple Watch models

If getting out to play in the outdoors in your game, this is your band. Breathable and lightweight, this option from Bezzos can keep up with backcountry outings, weekend camping trips, impromptu fishing trips, and more. We especially liked how it felt like wearing basically nothing, while still offering a proper secure fit. Because the last thing you want when you’re on the trail is a damp or uncomfortable accessory.

The smartly woven fabric, made from recycled material, wicks moisture well, meaning you won’t have to be carrying around any extra rain or sweat (or whatever else comes your way). Bonus points for three solid colorways.

What Should I Look for When Buying an Apple Watch Band?

Many Apple Watch bands are versatile enough to be used for different purposes, but some have specialty designs. For example, if you’re looking for a water-resistant band, the Life Proof Eco-Friendly Band or Nike Sport Band is a solid choice. If you want a band built for high-intensity activities, then the Urban Armor Gear Scout Plus Watch Strap and Case is a great pick. For business or wearing out on the town, something like the Apple Milanese Loop or the Shinola Leather Strap is the way to go.

Sometimes, buying a wallet-friendly Apple Watch band works, but there are usually sacrifices when trying to save money—namely in the comfort category. Cheaper band materials can scratch the skin and create nagging, rubbing, and itching. Buying a cheaper watch band might be OK to wear for short periods of time, but if you’re wearing the band all day or for intense workouts you might find the sacrifice in comfort is not worth the money saved.