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Strap Guide: Apple Watch
A Quick Intro to the Apple Watch
Some of you may be cringing at the mention of a smart watch, but we can't deny the impact it's had since its inception in 2015. In the decade since, the Apple Watch quickly became the most popular watch in the world, outselling entire Swiss watch groups on its own. Currently on its 11th iteration with the Series 11 and 3 Ultra/SE models, you might be surprised to learn that Apple did not change the attachment mechanism throughout the years, meaning straps from the very first Apple Watch will still fit on the latest one. This same mechanism also allows for strap changes in seconds, making it easier than straps with quick-release springbars on regular watches.
Despite having quartz and mechanical watches in my rotation, my Apple Watch Series 9 still gets a substantial amount of wrist time when exercising or travelling. Not needing to adjust time zones is genuinely convenient, even if that convenience comes at the cost of having to charge it daily.
Due to the nature of smart watches having a screen instead of a dial, the Apple Watch is extremely versatile and dresses up or down with ease, especially if you pick a neutral case colour like black or silver like mine. Today, I will showing off 5 strap pairings on my Series 9 to showcase its versatility.
Apple Sport Band
This is the sport band that came with my watch and the one I reach for most often when running or travelling. Made from FKM rubber, it’s soft, flexible, and comfortable for long periods, even in heat and humidity. Apple probably has a fancy name for it, but for the sake of my sanity, it’s navy to me. The design is simple but well thought out, with a tuck-in tail that keeps everything neat and secure.
It’s hard to fault the Sport Band from a functional standpoint. It handles sweat, water, and constant movement without complaint, and it’s easy to rinse clean after a workout. The main downside is the price. At $69 retail, it feels expensive for a rubber strap, though the quality is undeniably there. If you’re patient, the secondary market can be a great option. I picked mine up on Carousell for $30 after my partner’s original band finally gave up after years of daily use.
Swift Leather Strap
If you love the look of the Hermès Apple Watch straps but not that scary looking price tag, Our handmade Swift leather straps are a more practical alternative. Made from the same smooth and supple leather, they deliver that refined, minimalist aesthetic that works just as well with casual outfits as it does in more polished settings. The leather has a supple feel straight out of the box, develops character over time, and wears comfortably for long hours on the wrist. You get the same elegant look and everyday versatility, without paying a premium simply for a logo, making it an easy upgrade that feels luxurious without being excessive.
Trimfit Mosaic FKM Rubber Strap
Our Trimfit rubber straps sit comfortably in that sweet spot between formal and casual, making them incredibly easy to wear no matter the occasion. Clean lines and a slim profile give them a refined look that does not feel out of place with a dressier outfit, while the flexibility and durability of rubber keep them perfectly suited for everyday wear. Whether you are heading into the office, grabbing a casual coffee, or travelling on the weekend, the Trimfit adapts effortlessly, offering the comfort of rubber without the overly sporty look that usually limits where a rubber strap can be worn.
Classic Togo Leather Strap
If you’re a fan of Hermès, Togo will be another familiar leather that you’ll likely appreciate. Compared to Swift leather’s smooth and refined finish, Togo has a distinctive pebbled grain that gives it a more relaxed, slightly sportier character. That textured surface adds visual depth and makes the leather more forgiving in daily wear, helping to mask small scratches and creases over time. It also tends to feel a touch firmer, holding its shape well while still breaking in comfortably. For those who enjoy Hermès-style leathers but want something less delicate and more practical for everyday use, Togo offers a refreshing alternative with plenty of character.
Performax Saffiano Leather Hybrid Strap
Our Saffiano hybrid straps are designed for those who want the look of leather without giving up the practicality of rubber. From a distance, the textured Saffiano finish reads just like a traditional leather strap, adding a clean, structured look that works well in more formal settings. Up close and on the wrist, the rubber construction makes all the difference. It is water-resistant, easy to clean, and far more forgiving in heat and humidity, making it ideal for daily wear in warmer climates. The result is a strap that looks polished enough for the office but remains comfortable and low-maintenance enough for everyday use, truly offering the best of both worlds.
Final Thoughts
The Apple Watch may divide opinion among traditional watch enthusiasts, but there’s no denying how adaptable it is. Much of that adaptability comes down to straps. With a simple swap, the same watch can feel sporty, refined, casual, or somewhere in between. That flexibility is something few traditional watches can match so effortlessly.
Whether you prefer the practicality of rubber, the elegance of leather, or something that sits in between, the right strap can completely change how your Apple Watch fits into your daily life. For me, that’s what makes it such an enjoyable watch to own. It doesn’t replace mechanical or quartz watches, but it complements them in a way that feels genuinely useful. In the end, the best Apple Watch strap isn’t about trends or branding. It’s the one that suits how you actually live, day in and day out.
