Apple loves to change up its collection of Apple Watch bands seasonally, and it’s doing so again, with 19 colorful new options that could polarize opinion.
Most of the new straps are part of Apple’s Solo Loop and Braided Solo Loop series, which are compatible with Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Ultra, and Apple Watch 4 (or newer). There are also four new color options in the Sport Band line, which are compatible with the Apple Watch 3 and later, as well as several new options in the ultra-pricey Hermès line.
So what new color options do you have? Like the iPhone 14, the Solo Loop ($49/£49/AU$69) is now available in Canary Yellow, Foggy Purple, Olive Green and Sprout Green. We’re not sure if the latter name really sold us, but it looks like a delightful new option for those who need a silicone strap.
If you prefer a woven watch strap made from a mix of recycled yarn and silicone threads, the Woven Single Loop ($99/£99/AU$149) might be for you. It’s now available in Purple Haze, Olive, and Bright Orange, the latter of which we think might make it into our guide to the best Apple Watch bands.
We think the Apple Watch Hermès range of straps (from $319/£319/AU$469) is too expensive, but if you don’t mind spending the equivalent of an Apple Watch 8 on a new strap, the range has expanded to eight new options.
These include the green Bambou Swift Leather Single Tour (a Double Tour that can also be wrapped twice around the wrist) and the Orange/Blanc Swift Leather Casaque Double Tour.To see the full range, you can go to Apple Watch Band Shop (opens in a new tab).
missed opportunity
The new line of Apple Watch bands has some strong additions, our picks being the new Purple Haze and bright orange versions of the Braided Solo Loop. But there are also some missed opportunities.
Apple hasn’t added any new Sport Loop colors, which is a shame because it’s a popular watch band that offers the best options for affordability and comfort. Still, six Sport Loop options are currently available in a variety of colors.
Oddly, Apple also didn’t design any straps specifically for the Apple Watch Ultra, which goes on sale in September. The Watch Ultra is compatible with standard 45mm watch bands, such as the Braided Solo Loop and Solo Loop, though Apple warns that you should only use these with the Ultra for “everyday casual wear.”
When using the 45mm band with the Ultra, Apple also states that “due to the larger case size of the Apple Watch Ultra, you may need to use a smaller band size than you are used to”. Unfortunately, Apple hasn’t added any new 49mm straps to its new line of Outdoor Activities, such as the Ocean Band, Alpine Loop, and Trail Loop, but these may come in a future update.
If you’re concerned about one of the older Apple Watch bands (such as the Succulent Solo Loop or Rainforest Braided Solo Loop) that these new ones have replaced, it’s also worth checking out your local Apple Store, as it may still be stock available.
