Best Apple Watch Bands to Buy in 2025

Picking the right watch band for your Apple Watch model can feel intimidating with so many cool styles, colors, and materials to explore. To help you out, I’ve tested multiple Apple Watch bands over the past few weeks and curated a list of the best ones. Along with the list, you’ll also learn how we chose each pick and the factors to consider when buying a new Apple Watch band.

5 Best Apple Watch Bands in 2025 

Below are our top picks for the best bands you can get for your Apple Watch in 2025. I have included the following styles: designer, luxury, sporty, and daily wear bands for both men and women.

1. Spigen Athlex Air

If you’re looking for a comfortable, all-day Apple Watch band that can handle both meetings and workouts with ease, check out the Spigen Athlex Air. The premium nylon fabric strap uses an easy hook-and-loop fastener for a snug, adjustable fit (fits wrists ~155–245mm) and supports a wide range of Apple Watch sizes.  

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Moreover, the grip on the pull tab lets you adjust the watch quickly on the go and prevents accidental detachment. The blend of sporty style and soft feel makes it a versatile pick. Just keep in mind that fabric straps may need occasional cleaning, especially after rough use.  

For users needing more band elasticity and breathability, go for the Spigen Lite Fit. 

Compatibility: Apple Watch Ultra 3/2/Ultra 49mm, Series 11/10 46mm, Series 9/8/7 45mm, SE3/SE2/SE/6/5/4 44mm, Series 3/2/1 42mm. 

2. amBand E1 Rugged Band & Case

Want some serious protection for your Apple Watch? The amBand rugged case and strap combo has you covered. It wraps the watch body with raised bumper edges built to absorb impacts and guard against drops and scratches. However, note that it doesn’t include a screen protector. 

Made from soft TPU, the strap is lightweight and flexible, with ventilated channels to keep your wrist comfortable throughout the day. Overall, it’s a strong pick for anyone who wears their watch in rough environments or wants one strap that does it all. Just keep in mind that it’s bulkier than standard bands.  

Compatibility: Provides options specific to 38mm/40mm/41mm, 42mm – Series 11/ 10, 42mm/44mm/45mm, 46mm – Series 11/10, 49mm – Ultra 3/Ultra 2/Ultra

3. NOMAD Modern Leather Band

Leather bands elevate your Apple Watch with style, personality, and quality. NOMAD has used full-grain, sustainably sourced leather that develops a rich patina over time. Additionally, you get a classic buckle built with marine-grade 316 stainless steel. So, the connection to your watch feels solid.  

The buckle also has a PVD treatment for longevity. Designed to fit wrists measuring approximately 150-210 mm, the band is compatible with all Apple Watch models. Therefore, if you want a premium, stylish band that works day-to-day and ages with character, this is a solid pick.

Compatibility: Apple Watch models (49 mm/45 mm/44 mm/42 mm), including Ultra 1-3, Series 1-11, and SE.  

4. Kades Stainless Steel Band

Metal Apple Watch bands remain a popular option for professionals, especially men. Kades Stainless Steel Band is crafted from high-quality, waterproof 316 stainless steel for a sleek, durable look. It offers a premium finish with matte-polished links and a secure double-buckle butterfly buckle.   

The best part is its easy-link removal design, which lets you fine-tune the fit. The link remover pin is included in the box. Moreover, if your wrist exceeds 230mm, the brand offers 10 extra links so you can wear it comfortably. However, it’s heavier than sport bands, so it may feel more substantial on the wrist. 

Compatibility: Apple Watch Ultra 3/Ultra 2/Ultra 49mm, iWatch Series 11/10 46mm, Series 9/8/7 45mm, Series 6/5/4/SE3/SE2/SE 44mm, Series 3/2/1 42mm. 

5. Anne Klein Designer Chain Bracelet for Apple Watch

If you’re looking to turn your Apple Watch into a more luxurious fashion statement, the Anne Klein Fashion Chain Bracelet band is a stylish pick for women. With its designer-chain link construction and beautiful gold finish, it complements your style.  

I liked its high-end crystal-accented charms hanging from the band. Offering the best fit and comfort, it has three detachable links for adjustment.  In addition, the clasp closing on the jewelry is easy to use and safe.     

Compatibility: Apple Watch models with 42mm & 44/45/46/49mm

Bonus: Official Apple Watch Bands

If your budget permits, the official Apple Watch bands are no match for them. Their compatibility, material, and finish are trusted. You’ll also get solid support and quality from Apple. 

• Apple Sport Band: Built from custom fluoroelastomer with a pin‑and‑tuck closure, it’s best for everyday comfort and workouts.  
• Apple Sport Loop: A softer nylon woven band with a hook-and-loop fastener, great for all-day wear and comfort.  
• Apple Milanese Loop: It’s a mesh stainless steel band for a refined and premium look.  
• Apple Solo Loop: A seamless, no-clasp band for ease and minimal style. It also has a braided version of stretchable yarn interwoven with silicone threads. 
• Apple Magnetic Link: Made using Apple’s innovative FineWoven material for a suede-like feel. The molded magnets wrap snugly around your wrist. 

Along with these options, Apple offers a range of options for brands like Nike and Hermès.

Which Apple Watch Band is Best in 2025

When choosing a band for your Apple Watch, it comes down to use case, style, and build quality. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide which is right for you. 

• The Spigen Athlex Air and amBand rugged case strap combo is ideal if you’re active, outdoorsy, or want your watch to survive tough usage.  
• The NOMAD leather band and Anne Klein designer bracelet are perfect if you treat your Apple Watch as a fashion accessory. It’s best when attending events or meetings.  
• The Kades stainless steel band is great for turning your Apple Watch into a classic wristwatch. It’s better for formal or business wear. 

How to Pick the Best Apple Watch Band

When choosing the best Apple Watch band, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure you get the right fit, comfort, and style that suits your fancy.

• Compatibility: Apple Watch bands come in different sizes, so make sure the band you choose is compatible with your watch model. For example, bands for 38mm and 40mm watches are interchangeable, as are bands for 42mm and 44mm watches. Some bands, like Apple’s sports band, come in sizes such as S/M and M/L, so if you are buying one, make sure it is not too big or too small for your wrist.
• Durability: You would be wasting your hard-earned money if you buy an Apple Watch band that cannot withstand the daily wear and tear it encounters, given your lifestyle. So, it is important to consider materials that last, such as reinforced silicone or leather.
• Style: Consider where and when you plan to wear your Apple Watch when choosing a band. It wouldn’t be wise to wear a leather band during fitness activities or to don a sports loop for professional meetings.
• Cost: Another critical factor to consider when choosing an Apple Watch band. Before you start looking for a band, set your budget. The cost of an Apple Watch band mainly depends on the material it is made from. However, third-party options are always more affordable than Apple’s official watch bands.

How Do You Know Which Apple Watch Band Fits Your Watch

Apple Watch bands come in different sizes to accommodate the varying dimensions of Apple Watch models. You can find bands for 38mm, 40mm, 41mm, 42mm, 44mm, 45mm, and 49mm cases, so it’s crucial to know your watch’s size before purchasing a band. Apple Watch bands are generally compatible within their size ranges, so, for example, a band made for a 44mm watch will also fit a 45mm case.

Additionally, the material and design of the band can affect its fit. Some bands, like the Solo Loop, come in specific sizes that need to match your wrist circumference, while others, like the Sport Loop, are adjustable for a more flexible fit.

What’s the Usual Cost of the Best Apple Watch Bands

The cost of an Apple Watch band can vary greatly depending on the material, style, and comfort it offers. The affordable options usually start at $30, while the premium ones can reach hundreds of dollars, depending on whether they are made from silicone, nylon, leather, or stainless steel.

While official Apple Watch bands are almost always pricy, you can easily find affordable and quality watch bands from third-party brands at a fraction of Apple’s price.

How Did We Know These Are the Best Apple Watch Bands

Our selection of the best Apple Watch is based on my and my team’s personal experience, the brand’s reputation, user reviews, and extensive testing I’ve been doing for the past few weeks. The team and I have personally tested each band on this list for the style, comfort, durability, and functionality it can offer.

Additionally, customer feedback and expert reviews were also taken into account to ensure that each Apple Watch band meets the demands of a broader range of users. Whether you are a fitness enthusiast or a business professional often busy in meetings, there is an Apple Watch band on this list for you.

Signing Off

That’s pretty much it. Choosing the right Apple Watch band is another way to express your style while ensuring it feels comfortable and serves its purpose well. Before making a buying decision, consider all the key factors outlined in this post and choose the one that suits your lifestyle, giving your Apple Watch a brand-new look.

Got some doubts? Feel free to reach out to us via comments.

Also Read:

• How to clean your Apple Watch band
• How to check if your Apple Watch is original or fake
• Apple Watch Series 11 vs Series 10: Should you upgrade?

Editorial Note: When you purchase through our links, we earn a small commission. However, this does not affect our opinions or evaluations. Learn more about our Editorial Process and Disclaimer.