Best Apple Watch Bands of 2026: Nike, Hermés, and More

apple watches are Smart little gadgets, but they don’t always fit into the atmosphere. There have been many nights out and more exotic events when I left my dress at home because I wanted to carefully check my details, but they didn’t match my dress. I too have the wrong things and have let the neon orange sport band clash with my neutral grouping.

Luckily, Apple Watch bands are a simple and relatively affordable way to improve the look of your wearable. Beyond aesthetics, different styles also impact performance and functionality. For example, personally, I don’t want a heavy stainless steel or high-quality leather band weighing me down during a sweaty workout, just like I wouldn’t wear a flimsy silicone band to a dinner party.

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

Best bands for everyday wear

The Nike Sport Loop has been my everyday band since 2020. I bought another one in 2023 because I wanted to change the color, and I figured after three years I should buy a new band, but it has held up remarkably well. Made from a blend of recycled polyester, spandex and nylon, it’s breathable and lightweight. The double-layered nylon weave is designed with a dense loop that helps prevent moisture from getting trapped on your skin. As long as you hand-wash it regularly to get rid of sweat and dirt, it remains odor-free.

Hook-and-loop fastener and pull tab make it easy to adjust with one hand. It is velcro, so be careful, it may stick to soft fabrics. Still, for a band designed with sports in mind, it’s built with enough weight to wear almost anywhere. I wouldn’t wear this to any formal event, but for office or casual social events, it is 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 to 11. It’s easy to adjust, sophisticated enough for the office, and backed by Grade 4 titanium hardware with scratch-resistant DLC coating. FKM rubber links (PFA-free and antimicrobial according to Nomad) add flexibility, durability, and water-resistance. The clasp is made with corrosion-resistant N52 magnets, making it easy to snap on, and it’s designed with a manual release button, so you don’t have to worry about it accidentally falling off. It’s technically suitable for workouts and outdoor use, but it’s a heavier band that I personally prefer for everyday casual wear.