The 13 Best Apple Watch Bands for Men, Tested by Tech Editors
We tested dozens of Apple Watch bands over the past year. Nomad's Modern Band is the best.
Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?
FOR YEARS, APPLE Watch bands have been the ultimate tool for showing flair and personalization on the world's most advanced smartwatch (and fitness watch). Even in 2024, the best Apple Watch bands continue to evolve. That's not only because there are more exciting colors and patterns, but also due to the fact new Apple Watch bands are being made with eco-friendly materials that are helping save the planet.
The best Apple Watch bands are stylish and durable. These days, we also expect mostly eco-friendly designs that rely on at least partially recycled materials and an affordable price tag helps, too. The best Apple watch band for you should ideally match your personal fashion sensibilities, whether you're a minimalist looking for a sleek, Apple-esque option in jet-black or a bold maximalist who likes their accessories on the bold side. Finding the right one often comes down to look and feel, but there are plenty of functional purposes that we consider during testing, too.
Best Apple Watch Bands
What to Consider
Shopping for Apple watch bands is similar to shopping for more traditional watch bands. But there are a few key points to consider:
Compatibility and Size
The original Apple Watch dates back to 2014, and Apple has released a new model every year since. Thankfully, the dimensions have changed very little. But you’ll still want to make sure that any Apple Watch band you find will fit your particular model. The good news is that most are designed to fit a wide range of—if not all—Apple Watches, though.
Materials
Like traditional watch bands, most Apple Watch bands (for men and women) are made from one of three materials: Silicone, nylon, or leather.
Silicone is soft, durable, and waterproof, making it a great option for active wearers who plan to wear their Apple Watches every day, including swimming and while working out. It’s also typically the most affordable material.
High-strength nylon bands are similar to silicone as they’re also durable, waterproof, and usually comfortable enough to wear just about anywhere.
Leather, on the other hand, is by far the best-looking material. The best leather Apple Watch bands are eco-tanned to develop a rich natural patina over time. They’re usually a good choice for casual wear—to the office, on dinner dates, etc.—but don’t typically hold up as well for more active pursuits.
Price
Except for high-end, luxurious bands, most Apple Watch bands are reasonably priced. How much you spend is entirely up to you. Just know that you can score a quality silicone band for as little as $10 or a decent nylon or leather alternative for less than $50. Even a handsome, designer leather band shouldn’t cost more than $100.
How We Chose
Our team has been digging the Apple Watch and Apple Watch bands as far back as 2015, when we when we reviewed the very first Apple Watch. That's just to say we've tested nearly all of the best accessories. There are hundreds, maybe thousands, of Apple Watch bands on the market today. They come in all shapes, sizes, colors, materials, and designs, so whatever your personal style, there’s a band out there for you. Our gear team spent months comparing dozens of top-selling models from Bellroy, Nomad, Shinola, and Apple itself, noting everything from durability and design to comfort and price.
The list below represents our honest picks for the best Apple Watch bands worth buying in 2024.
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