The strap, or band as Apple sometimes calls it, determines how the Apple Watch feels in your hand. I’ve owned an Apple Watch for over three years and have used a variety of bands, but I have a favorite type. That’s Apple Sports Loop. Here’s why:
Lightweight and breathable construction
The Apple Watch is on your wrist almost every hour of the day, so it needs to weigh down and disappear into the back of your mind. So, since you can’t change the weight of the watch case itself (which Apple did with the Apple Watch Series 10 we reviewed), we switched to the Sport Loop, which is 20 grams lighter than the silicone Sport Band. Ta. I’ve looked back on it ever since.
The other thing is breathability. When you’ve been wearing your Apple Watch during a weightlifting session or a long walk, you might want to loosen the silicone sport band to make sure your wrist has a chance to breathe and doesn’t accumulate too much dirt and grime. I was very aware that it was there. After switching to the Sport Loop, I noticed that my wrist didn’t feel damp or sweaty for a while.
Now easier to wear
I also like the hook-and-loop mechanism on the Apple Watch Sport Loop. This is similar to a traditional metal link strap, one of the many bands available for the Apple Watch. Because it always has a bangle-like loop that you wrap around your wrist.
In my opinion, this mechanism helps prevent accidental drops. For example, if you try to wear a pin-and-tuck strap like a sports band, you might make a mistake and let your Apple Watch fall to the ground. It also allows for quick adjustments without the risk of the watch falling off your wrist. Just loosen and move the Velcro to adjust.
But more importantly, it feels easier to carry than the Sport Band, both in and out of the Apple Watch case. It’s much more collapsible and it’s not criminal to fold the straps into a small package.
All that said, the Apple Watch Sport Loop’s lightweight design and breathable construction make it a great option if you’re looking for a workout band. Apple Watch should now feel light on your wrist during daily use.
