Top Stories· August 15, 2026 at 09:33 a.m.
Top Picks for Apple Watch Bands: Nike, Nomad, Hermès, and More

Key takeaways
- Nike Sport Loop is a popular everyday choice
- Nomad Stratos Band features durable titanium hardware
- Hermès band offers a luxurious alternative
Apple Watches are popular smart devices, but their bands may not always complement various outfits. To address this issue, Wired has tested numerous Apple Watch bands since their launch in 2015 to find the best options for every occasion. The following report highlights top picks from Nike, Nomad, and Hermès, along with an honorable mention.
Paragraph 2 The Nike Sport Loop is a popular choice due to its blend of recycled polyester, spandex, and nylon, making it breathable, lightweight, and odor-free. The Nomad Stratos Band features Grade 4 titanium hardware with a scratch-resistant DLC coating and FKM rubber links for flexibility, durability, and water resistance.
Paragraph 3 The Nike Sport Loop has been the everyday band for Wired's tester since 2020. The Nomad Stratos Band is praised for its refined appearance suitable for office wear and backed by durable hardware.
Paragraph 4 Apple Watches have become a popular accessory, and various brands offer Apple Watch bands to cater to different preferences and needs.
Paragraph 5 In the future, Wired plans to test the Nomad Tempo Band, the Apple Trail Loop, and the Apple Milanese Titanium Band. The tester will also continue long-term testing of most Apple Watch bands in storage.
Paragraph 6 The findings suggest that there are numerous high-quality options for Apple Watch bands, catering to various preferences, from sports-oriented choices like the Nike Sport Loop to more refined options such as the Nomad Stratos Band and Hermès band.


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