Top 10 Questions to Ask When Buying Your First Watch Strap

Buying a watch strap for the first time can be exciting but overwhelming. Whether you're upgrading your current strap or replacing a worn-out one, it's essential to choose the right one for your watch. Here’s everything you need to know before making your purchase!

1. What Size Strap Should I Get for My Watch?

One of the first steps in selecting a strap is determining the correct size for your watch's lugs. Lug width refers to the distance between the two small metal pieces on either side of your watch that hold the strap in place. You can measure this yourself, or refer to your watch's manual to find the correct size, commonly ranging from 18mm to 24mm. If you don't have a measuring device or manual for you watch you can download and print our helpful watch strap sizing guide here.  Checkout the video below to learn how to measure your watch. 

2. Leather, Rubber, or Fabric: Which Strap is Best for Me?

When choosing the material for your watch strap, it’s important to consider both your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Each material offers unique benefits, from durability to comfort, making it crucial to pick the one that suits your everyday needs. Let's break down the most popular options: FKM Rubber, Leather, Silicone, and Fabric (including Nylon, Canvas, and Cordura).

Fabric Straps: Lightweight, Breathable, and Versatile

Fabric straps, such as Nylon, Canvas, and Cordura, are perfect for those seeking a lightweight, breathable strap that’s easy to wear in various environments. These materials offer a more casual, rugged look, making them great for everyday use or outdoor adventures.

• Nylon: Is the most popular fabric material for watch straps. Known for its durability and lightweight nature, Nylon straps are perfect for those who want a strong, breathable strap that’s also flexible. They are resistant to stretching and wear, making them a reliable choice for daily wear. Nylon is also highly customizable, with various weaves and colors available.

• Canvas: For a slightly more rugged or vintage look, Canvas straps offer a durable, breathable material that’s often used in military or outdoor watch designs. The textured surface gives them a unique appearance, and they break in well with time.

• Cordura: A more specialized fabric, Cordura is gives your watch a more sophisticated and dressier look. If you're looking for a strap to wear to a formal even or dinner, Cordura is a top choice.

FKM Rubber Straps: Durability Meets Flexibility

When it comes to durability and flexibility, FKM rubber straps stand out, especially for those with active lifestyles. FKM rubber, is designed for resilience and longevity. This material can handle intense conditions, such as water exposure or high temperatures, without losing its shape or quality. Whether you're into sports or outdoor activities, FKM rubber straps are tough enough to keep up with your adventures.

• Features Of FKM Rubber:
  • Highly Durable: FKM rubber is resistant to wear, water, oils, and high temperatures, making it perfect for demanding environments.
  • Comfortable and Flexible: It’s soft and flexible, providing a snug fit that’s easy on the skin even during workouts.
  • Water-Resistant: Ideal for divers, swimmers, or anyone who needs a waterproof strap.
  • Easy to Clean: FKM rubber straps are non-porous, so they won’t absorb sweat or dirt, making them easy to maintain and hygienic.
  • Variety of Colors: Available in a wide range of colors, making it easy to personalize your style.

Leather Straps: Classic Elegance and Comfort

Leather straps have long been synonymous with luxury and sophistication. If you're looking for a timeless, elegant look, genuine leather or premium Horween leather straps are the way to go. These straps are incredibly versatile, ideal for formal settings like the office or special events. They soften and mold to your wrist over time, offering excellent comfort for everyday wear.

• Pros of Leather:
  • Sophisticated and Timeless: Perfect for formal occasions and professional environments.
  • Comfortable Fit: Leather becomes more flexible and comfortable with age, adapting to your wrist’s shape.
  • Variety of Finishes: From smooth, glossy textures to rugged, distressed looks, leather offers many unique styles.
  • Breathability: While leather isn’t as breathable as synthetic materials, quality leather provides a comfortable fit throughout the day.

3. What Type of Strap is Compatible with My Watch?

Does your watch feature removable spring bars? If so, you can choose between pass-through straps (which slide under the watch lugs) or two-piece straps (which secure each end of the strap with a spring bar). Most watches come with spring bars pre-installed. 

4. How Do I Know if the Strap Will Be Comfortable?

Comfort is key when selecting a watch strap. You want a strap that fits well and feels comfortable throughout the day. Look for breathable materials like Nylon or FKM rubber for extended wear, and choose adjustable straps if you want more control over the fit. For leather straps, look for softer materials or a padded interior for added comfort.

5. What’s the Difference Between a Single-Pass and a Double-Pass Strap?

A single-pass strap goes through your watch's lugs once and under itself, creating a minimalist look, while a double-pass strap wraps through your spring bars like the single pass, but has an additional half strap that wraps over your spring bars, offering extra security and durability. Both are fantastic, but your choice depends on whether you prefer sleek simplicity or a more traditional, military-style strap.

In this video we show how to install a double-pass strap.

6. Should I Choose a Pin Buckle or Deployment Clasp?

The type of clasp you choose can affect both the functionality and the aesthetics of your watch strap. A pin and buckle is simple and classic and what you'll see on most watch strap, while a deployment clasp (which folds over itself) provides a more polished look, but typically seen on more refined straps. 

- Example of a Pin & Buckle Strap. BluShark Original - Army Green
- Example of a Deployment Strap. Leather - Crocodile Grain Black - Butterfly Clasp

7. Is the Strap Waterproof or Water-Resistant?

If you plan to wear your watch while swimming or working out, a waterproof strap is essential. Rubber and silicone straps are often the best choice for water activities as they don’t absorb moisture, but nylon also makes a great choice it can just take a bit longer to dry. Keep in mind that most leather straps may not hold up well when exposed to water, so make sure to choose water-resistant materials if needed.

8. How Can I Make Sure the Strap Lasts?

To ensure your watch strap stands the test of time, consider the material and how well it suits your lifestyle. Nylon straps are durable and resistant to wear, but might need cleaning from time to time, while leather straps may require more care to avoid cracking or fading. Regularly clean and store your straps properly to extend their lifespan.

9. How Do I Replace My Watch Strap?

Replacing your watch strap can be a fun and easy DIY project! You might need a spring bar tool if you're swapping out a pass-through strap for a 2-piece strap that has quick-release spring bars installed. 

In this video we show you how to remove your spring bars and install a pass-through strap that is too thick to pass through the spring bars while installed. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0DhTqAOaeg 

In this video we show how to install a double-pass pass-through strap - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtKqpgW4VrQ