Best Apple Watch teams of 2026: Nike, Hermés, and more

Apple watches are Clever little gadgets, but they don’t always fit the vibe. There were a lot of more stylish nights and events when I left my house at home, because — as much as I wanted to discreetly check my notifications — it didn’t match my outfit. I’ve also had my fair share of mistakes and let the neon orange sports band clash with my neutral ensemble.

Fortunately, Apple Watch bands are a simple and relatively affordable way to improve the look of your wearable devices. In addition to aesthetics, different styles also affect performance and function. For example, personally, I wouldn’t want to be weighed down by a heavy stainless steel or high-quality leather band while working out, just as I wouldn’t wear a flimsy silicone band to a dinner party.

At WIRED, we’ve been testing bands since the first Apple Watch launched in 2015. After years of wear and tear, I’ve rounded up the best bands for every occasion. Be sure to check out our best Apple Watch accessories, best Apple Watch, and best smartwatches for more recommendations.

Best band for everyday wear

The Nike Sport Loop has been my daily wear band since 2020. I bought another in 2023 because I wanted to switch colors, and after three years I thought I’d have to buy a whole new one, but it’s held up remarkably well. Made from a blend of recycled polyester, spandex and nylon, it is breathable and lightweight. The double-layered nylon fabric is designed with dense loops that help prevent moisture from getting trapped on your skin. As long as you hand wash it regularly to get rid of sweat and dirt buildup, it will remain odor-free.

The hook-and-loop fastener and pull tab make it easy to adjust with one hand. It’s Velcro, so be careful, it can stick to soft fabrics. However, for a band designed with sports in mind, it’s simple enough to wear almost anywhere. I wouldn’t wear it to a formal event, but for the office or casual social events, it’s perfect.

Best titanium apple watch band

Nomad originally designed the Stratos band for the Apple Watch Ultra, but it also fits the SE and Series 1 through 11. It’s easy to adjust, refined enough for the office, and backed by grade 4 titanium hardware with a scratch-resistant DLC coating. FKM rubber bindings (PFA-free and antimicrobial, according to Nomad) add flexibility, durability and water resistance. The clip is made of corrosion-resistant N52 magnet, making it easy to install, and it is designed with a manual release button, so you don’t have to worry about it falling off accidentally. It’s technically suitable for workouts and outdoor use, but it’s a bulky band that I personally prefer for casual everyday wear.