The 10 Best Apple Watch Bands of 2025, Tested and Reviewed

Why We Love It: Don’t let this watch band’s stainless steel exterior fool you into thinking it’s heavy or uncomfortable. Modeled after a classic 19th-century Italian design, the slinky band feels airy on your wrist while remaining fixed in place. Take it from our tester, who found the band more breathable, smoother, and lighter than she expected. Because of the magnetic closure, it’s about as adjustable as a watch band can get, which means no settling for a too-tight or too-loose fit. The carbon-neutral band, which comes in three metallic hues, works in casual and formal settings, according to our tester. It’s one of Mumtaz’s favorites too, and she suggests choosing it in a metal that matches the rest of your jewelry.

Who It’s For: The person looking for a band that’s sleek enough for formal events but versatile enough for casual wear. It’s not the best option to wear while soldiering through a workout, but fortunately, it’s simple to interchange it with a sportier band. If you have particularly small or large wrists (or just want a precise fit), Apple’s adjustable Milanese Loop band is an excellent choice, as it won’t creep up your forearm or drop off your wrist. 

Band Size: 130‒180 millimeters | Material: Recycled stainless steel mesh | Case Size: 40, 42, 46 millimeters | Compatibility: 38, 40, 41 millimeters 

Gabrielle, tester who wears her Apple Watch all day: “This is probably the easiest Apple Watch band I’ve had to adjust without any slippage or loosening. It stays secure throughout the day and even as I sleep.”

Why We Love It: If you’re dissatisfied with your Apple Watch’s rubber band but don’t want to splurge on an alternative, consider this stainless steel option from Astra Straps. With a minimal, classic design, you’ll get plenty of use from this lightweight band. Our tester wore hers to work, out on the weekends, to exercise, and while doing tasks at home and said it remained comfortable and never slid around, even when she sweat in it. She had trouble mastering the slip clasp the first couple of times she put it on but said the band was easy to adjust.

Who It’s For: This band gives your Apple Watch a polished appearance without burning a hole in your wallet. It’s a fantastic option for someone who wants to wear their timepiece to a dressy event like a formal wedding where a rubber band looks out of place or clashes with their look. That said, it’s easy to style and well-built enough to pair with your everyday outfits as well. 

Band Size: 144‒193 millimeters | Material: Water-resistant steel | Case Size: Not available | Compatibility: Apple Watch Series 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Ultra, Ultra 2, SE, SE2

Tiffani, tester who wears her Apple Watch on all occasions: “I would recommend this band to anyone who is looking for a sleek simple classy look, not the silicone band that comes with the watch. If you want a watch band that can transition with you during all stages and aspects of life, this is the band.”

Why We Love It: Over clunky buckles that dig into your skin and magnetic enclosures that catch on your arm hair? Apple’s Solo Loop eradicates those annoyances; its liquid silicone rubber stretches over your hand, so there’s no need to deal with any clasps or closures. It’s not a one-size-fits-all band though, so measure your wrist before ordering. Our tester said the Solo Loop is one of the more comfortable watch bands they own, adding that the smooth material feels soft. Although our tester had to stretch the silicone to put on the band, it didn’t lose its original shape throughout the duration of the testing period. She recommends sizing up if you’re between sizes to avoid this.

Who It’s For: This no-frills watch band is durable, secure, and comfortable, making it great for everyday wear. You can sweat in it, throw it on for errands, or wear it to work. Put plainly: It doesn’t require much thought or effort. Use Apple’s sizing guide to nail the fit—it’s worth the extra effort. 

Band Size: 0‒9 | Material: Liquid silicone rubber | Case Size: 40, 42, 46 millimeters | Compatibility: 40, 41, 42 millimeters

Sarah, tester who wears her Apple Watch during chores and while working out: “I haven’t had any issues with sweat while working out, it stays in place and is easy to clean if necessary. Since it’s meant to be stretched to be put on, you’d think it might be stretched out over time but it hasn’t! It springs right back to its initial position.” 

Why We Love It: When it comes to the Hermès Kilim, two words come to mind: gameday chic. The thick, high-quality rubber exterior has an “H” motif, a subtle nod to the French fashion house, and comes in a variety of colors from black to bright orange. It was comfortable on our tester’s wrist day in and day out (yes, she even slept in the band), and she said it never absorbed her sweat or self-tanner. Although our tester touted the band’s durable rubber material, she said it’s not the most breathable option, so she wiped it down after intense workouts. Her favorite part? Even though the band looks like it has a buckle, it actually has a hidden interior snap enclosure, which our tester says makes it super easy to put on and take off.

Who It’s For: The person who lives in their favorite activewear brands and wants a watch band as cute as their workout wear. This Hermès design is sturdy, comfortable, and fashion-forward, and it adds to any casual or athleisure look without being too gaudy or over-the-top.

Band Size: 160‒195 millimeters | Material: Waterproof molded rubber | Case Size: 44, 46  millimeters | Compatibility: 44, 45, 46, 49 millimeters

Elena, tester who wears her Apple Watch even while sleeping: “I have worn this guy for nearly 24 hours (even sleeping in it) for weeks now and it still looks BRAND new. The rubber material doesn’t absorb your sweat or spray tan, it doesn’t show any signs of wear (even tho like I said I sleep and workout in it).”

Why We Love It: You can’t go wrong with a simple watch band design, especially when finding one to wear while running. This double-layered nylon band is thick enough to hold up during your swiftest, most intense movements without ever getting in the way. Our tester wore hers daily—including during runs, spin classes, and strength-training sessions—and reported that it was breathable and sweat-resistant on her sensitive skin. The Velcro strap makes this band extremely easy to adjust, and our tester never had to play around with the fit after she put it on.

Who It’s For: The active person who doesn’t need to bother with a bunch of bells and whistles. You want a comfortable, simple Apple Watch band that can handle sweat and stay secured on your wrist during even the most arduous workout sessions. “The last thing you want on a run is a piece of clothing that distracts you,” says Summer Cartwright, InStyle senior wellness editor and RRCA-certified running coach. “Having a band like this can help support your goal, whether it be the time or distance you run.”

Band Size: 130‒200 millimeters | Material: Recycled nylon, recycled polyester, recycled spandex | Case Size: 40, 42, 46 millimeters | Compatibility: 38, 40, 41 millimeters

Sarah, tester who wears her Apple Watch during cardio activities: “The quality is great. I have sweated in this a bunch, as well as gotten it wet while washing my hands. It dries quick and doesn’t look gross or feel icky on my skin.”

Why We Love It: The Quince Stainless Steel Bracelet Apple Watch Band comes in a variety of metals and mixed metals (the silver/gold version has 18kt plated gold). With a classic link design and a butterfly clasp closure, the band is ideal for everyday wear and physical activity, according to our tester, who consistently wore it to run and do Pilates. The band also comes with a handy resizing kit, and although it took our tester about 20 minutes to nail the perfect fit, she said the process was all-around straightforward and easy to complete. She loved the band so much that it’s now the only one she uses on her Apple Watch. 

Who It’s For: Worn with the wrong band, an Apple Watch can knock an outfit down a few notches. So if you want to wear an Apple Watch without looking like you’re wearing an Apple Watch, consider this design. It’s perfect for the person who wants the fitness tracker on their wrist to look like a high-end link watch or coveted piece of jewelry.

Band Size: 140‒195 millimeters | Material: Stainless steel | Case Size: Not available | Compatibility: Series 10, 9, 8, SE, and all previous versions of Apple Watch

Jayne, tester who runs and frequents Pilates classes: “I love the overall design and look. It looks exactly like my luxury designer watch that I have had for years and was a total upgrade. It made me feel more confident wearing the Apple Watch beyond the gym, casual hangouts, and work.” 

Why We Love It: A leather watch adds polish, texture, and simplicity to an outfit, and prioritizing your health shouldn’t require sacrificing those style benefits. Quince’s Leather Apple Watch Band is the ultimate solution, with soft calf leather, saddle stitching, and a dainty silver buckle. It felt comfortable on our tester’s wrist, and she said it was easy to adjust using the built-in holes. Because leather isn’t conducive to sweat or moisture, this band is best suited for casual, everyday wear. If it feels a bit stiff on first wear, give it some time. Our tester broke hers in after a few wears.

Who It’s For: Someone who wants a sophisticated Apple Watch band to wear when they aren’t exercising. After all, the tracker can do so much more than log workouts, so why decide between getting the most use out of it and wearing a cohesive outfit you like? Pick from colors ranging from cognac to bright red, and add this affordable band to your regular rotation. 

Band Size: 140‒200 millimeters | Material: Calfskin leather strap, stainless steel buckle | Case Size: Not available | Compatibility: Series 10, 9, 8, SE, and all previous versions of Apple Watch 

Julia, tester who is concerned with Apple Watch dirt buildup: “My original Apple watch band is very noticeable when there is dirt buildup and wear and tear. With this one, the band looks pretty much the same as when I first opened it. No signs of wear and tear either!”

Why We Love It: This band’s recycled polyester material feels so soft (almost like a high-quality suede) and is so comfortable that our tester forgot she had it on her wrist on several occasions. It has multiple molded magnets inside of it, keeping your watch in place. The wraparound design is peak simplicity, requiring only one to two seconds (and one hand) for our tester to secure it on her wrist.

Who It’s For: This band is a low-key, interesting upgrade to your Apple Watch. It’s so low-key, in fact, that you barely need any time or effort to snap it onto your wrist. Because the fabric isn’t waterproof or sweat-resistant, avoid wearing this band while working out or swimming. 

Band Size: S/M (130‒160 millimeters), M/L (140‒180 millimeters) | Material: Post-consumer recycled polyester, recycled rare earth elements in magnets | Case Size: 42, 44, 46 millimeters | Compatibility: 38, 40, 41, 42 millimeters

Alyssa, tester concerned with Apple Watch movement: “It stays in place. I’ve worn it while doing laundry, buying groceries, scrubbing dishes, and working out. It never budged! Even with all of these magnets, it still feels very lightweight.”

Why We Love It: Whether you adventure by land or sea, Apple’s Ocean Band will keep your Watch fixed to your wrist and in top shape thanks to its stretchy elastomer material, corrosion-resistant titanium buckle, and adjustable loop. Our tester said the material felt like rubber or silicone and didn’t absorb a single drop of her sweat. Plus, the tube design throughout the band’s body gives it a minor design flair. You can choose between a few color options and two case finishes, giving you opportunities to express your personal style. 

Who It’s For: The person who sweats a ton while wearing their Apple Watch or plans to pair it with their swimsuit for their next lap pool sesh. Opt for this band if you like the rubber one that Apple’s Watches come with but want an alternative with a little more personality and texture. 

Band Size: 130‒200 millimeters | Material: Titanium, Fluoroelastomer | Case Size: 49 millimeters | Compatibility: Apple Watch Ultra 

Elena, tester looking for an Apple Watch with all-day comfort: “The material really adds to the wearability of it because it never absorbs my sweat or self-tanner. That said, it is not breathable at all. I still prefer it for workouts because I know that it won’t get discolored or absorb my sweat. I just have to take it off to wipe down the sweat. It’s super comfortable to wear and has become my go-to band for workouts.” 

Why We Love It: Made from pure titanium, this thick Apple Watch band is as strong as it looks, with a waterproof and scratch-resistant exterior. Durability aside, it’s also very breathable. The magnetic clasp makes it very easy to put on and take off, according to our tester. Although he found it a bit time-intensive to adjust the links with the included tool, he eventually found the perfect fit. Once it was on his wrist, he loved its luxurious feel.

Who It’s For: Someone willing to invest hundreds of dollars ($300, to be specific) on a metal watch band. This one will last forever, and it looks dressy and professional, like a valuable timepiece, the moment you put it on your wrist. 

Band Size: 150‒250 millimeters | Material: Titanium | Case Size: Not available |  Compatibility: Apple Watch Ultra and Ulta 2, Series 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, SE, and all previous versions of Apple Watch

Isaac, tester concerned with Apple Watch band longevity: “I think this is the nicest band I have in my collection. I would recommend this product to someone who works in offices and even construction sites because of the durability.”