If you’re anything like me, the Olympic Games Paris 2024 might have inspired a desire to get out and get active. I definitely don’t suggest signing yourself up for a 400m race without training, but watching on with bated breath as some of the most prolific sportspeople in the world compete for gold, silver and bronze certainly makes me wonder if it’s worth trying my hand at padel or dusting off my skateboard from the 90’s.
Whatever sport it is that takes your fancy, there is undoubtedly going to be some kit required and whilst you might remember your racket, trainers and sweat bands, it’s worth considering which watch straps are best for sports.
Which materials are best for sports watch straps?
If you’re planning on getting sporty, you’ll want to find a comfortable watch strap that can stand up to the physical demands of exercise. Leather is an undesirable material for a sports watch strap because it’ll absorb sweat which can cause discomfort and even rashes on the skin. As you exert yourself, your body heat will also rise, causing the skin to expand. Thanks to the swelling of your wrists, your watch strap might begin to feel tighter as you work out, particularly if you’re wearing something rigid like a metal bracelet.
Choosing a watch strap that is lightweight and flexible will help to ensure you can focus on the game, rather than the discomfort caused by your watch. Thanks to their anti-sweat, water resistant, breathable properties, materials like nylon and rubber are great sports watch strap options. Whether you’re surfing, making your way to the golf course or indulging in a few rounds of tennis, the WatchGecko store is guaranteed to provide you with plenty of suitable sports watch strap. To make things that little bit easier, we’ve compiled our best watch straps for sweat, water-resistance and -, so you need look no further in your pursuit of the best watch straps for sports.
Best Lightweight Sports Strap
ZULUDIVER 1973 British Military Watch Strap: AIRBORNE Elastic
Opt for our ZULUDIVER Airborne Elastic range and you’re guaranteed not only functional style and long-lasting durability but also a highly versatile, adjustable strap perfect for any athlete. The Airborne strap is expertly crafted from a combination of nylon and elastic rubber webbing material, woven together for exceptional strength. This unique blend ensures the strap is comfortably stretchy, making it an ideal choice for intense workouts and outdoor sports where heat and sweat are factors. You needn’t worry about your skin expanding as the Airborne strap will stretch with you, providing you unparalleled comfort no matter how rigorous the exercise.
The elasticated woven webbing material is also quick-drying, perfect for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts, and comes with stainless steel brushed fittings for a touch of sophistication. A perfect strap for the active sports season.
Best Sweat Resistant Sports Strap
ZULUDIVER Mayday Regatta Sailcloth Divers Watch Strap
For athletes seeking a waterproof, adventure-ready alternative, our popular Mayday Sailcloth straps are a great choice. Crafted from three robust layers of black woven cotton fabric, grey neoprene foam, and black PVC rubber with an embossed sailcloth pattern, the Sailcloth range offers rugged style and abrasion-resistant durability. Despite its tough construction, the Mayday Anchor strap is lightweight, flexible, and exceptionally comfortable to wear.
Finished with a solid stainless-steel buckle for added sophistication, the Sailcloth range is engineered for excellence and comes in array of colours. Quick-release spring bars ensure your watch stays secure during any sporting adventure and the underside of the strap is lined with vegan-friendly Lorica for both style and durability. This lining material is suitable for even the most sensitive skin thanks to its hypo-allergenic properties. The Mayday Sailcloth strap provides featherlight freedom for athletes on the go, making it perfect for summer sports.
Best Waterproof Sports Strap
WatchGecko Vintage Tropical Style FKM Rubber Watch Strap
The WatchGecko Tropical Style FKM straps are inspired by the iconic diving watches of the 1960s, making them perfect for today's sports enthusiasts. Seamlessly blending functionality and sophistication, our Vintage Tropical collection pays homage to retro straps with its generous tapered tail, classic style keepers, and period-accurate textured pattern.
Crafted from hi-tech FKM rubber, the Vintage Tropical range incorporates quick-release spring bars for easy strap swaps during any sporting event. Small, perforated vents are designed to allow airflow to the skin, ensuring comfort during intense activities. Highly resistant to salt water, aggressive chemicals, and extreme temperatures, these straps are built to withstand the rigors of any sport, whether it's diving, swimming, or outdoor adventures.
Best Nylon Sports Strap
WatchGecko Ridge Military Nylon Watch Strap
If rubber isn’t your style, nylon is another excellent option for summer sports. Breathable and flexible, nylon straps are perfect for replacing leather when the weather heats up. Though not completely water-resistant, nylon dries extremely quickly, making it just as suitable for swimming and diving as rubber.
The WatchGecko Ridge British Military Strap is a long-time favourite among our customers. Inspired by the straps developed by the Ministry of Defence for British soldiers in the 70s, it combines rugged style with proven resilience and comes in an impressive 22 colours.
Best Rubber Sports Strap
ZULUDIVER Endurance Extreme Rubber Watch Strap
Combining our two toughest strap designs into one bulletproof package the Endurance Extreme Rubber Watch expands the Endurance range to include a rugged sailcloth version. Tested and approved by our team, on a variety of popular luxury watches, the Endurance Extreme is engineered to withstand the harshest outdoor conditions.
Available in five vibrant colours, the Endurance Extreme is the perfect companion for your tool watch, whether you're conquering global adventures, diving deep underwater, or tackling rugged trails.
Always striving for perfection, we’ve incorporated customer feedback to ensure the Endurance Extreme Rubber strap meets the highest standards, excelling in versatile environments from office wear to extreme sports and deep-sea diving.
