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Oct 17, 2024

The Best Apple Watch Ultra Bands to Buy in 2024

The Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2 are Apple's rugged alternatives to the Series 9 and SE, and some of the best Apple Watch models you can buy. Because of that, it deserves one of the best Apple Watch

The Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2 are Apple's rugged alternatives to the Series 9 and SE, and some of the best Apple Watch models you can buy. Because of that, it deserves one of the best Apple Watch Ultra bands that's both high-quality and durable. While you can opt between a few strap types when buying an Ultra or Ultra 2, there are a variety of others that expand its usefulness.

Our favorites include the Apple Trail Loop. It's made of lightweight, breathable nylon that's durable enough for activities like hiking or cycling. We also like the Otterbox All Day Comfort Microbial Band. This strap features soft, durable rubber, comes in various color options, and is easy to clean after a workout.

Below are 11 of the best Apple Watch Ultra bands, perfect for any user. For picks better suited to the Series 9 and SE, see our guide to the best Apple Watch Series 9 bands. Be sure to check out the best Apple Watch screen protectors to further protect your Ultra, too.

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It's important to consider the durability and comfort of an Apple Watch Ultra band when shopping, along with how you intend to use it. For instance, the best Apple Watch bands for working out are best for people who strength train, run, hike, or cycle. A band made of nylon or rubber ensures a secure fit that won't get in the way of training.

Conversely, a band made of leather is a suitable option for users looking for something stylish to swap to while wearing the watch on a night out or in the office. They still maintain a rugged look but won't be as sporty as something intended purely for working out.

It's important to consider the brand of the strap, too. Apple bands are quality options but there are reliable and trusted third-party brands that sell premium straps, as well, such as Nomad, Spigen, and Otterbox.

This depends on your personal preference as there are several quality Ultra bands intended for different users. Rubber and nylon bands are best for athletes or outdoors people while leather or metal bands are great options for people who want a more stylish look while out to dinner or at work.

Yes, every Apple Watch Ultra band above is compatible with the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Similarly, the best Apple Watch Ultra 2 bands are compatible with the original Ultra. The sizing of both watches is the same, as is the mechanism for removing and attaching a new strap.

For the most part, yes. Any band that fits a 42mm, 44mm, and 45mm Apple Watch case is compatible with the Ultra's 49mm case. However, it's smart to double-check the exact sizing compatibility before purchasing.

While Apple's own Ultra bands are some of the best options available, plenty of third-party options are just as high quality.

However, it's important that when you're buying a third-party watch, it comes from a trusted, well-known brand. Although there are quality third-party options, there are still a lot of sub-par or worse Apple Watch Ultra bands sold by non-reliable sources.

Most tend to be more durable, yes. The likelihood of an Ultra band being more durable than a band intended for the Series 9 is high, though some are just as durable. For instance, some of the best Apple Watch Ultra bands designed for working out feature a similar design and construction to sports bands for the Series 9.

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