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Best Leather Apple Watch Bands: (Review & Buying Guide) in 2024

Seeking the ideal leather Apple Watch band? This thoughtful review explores eight premier bands, weighing their style, ease, and usefulness to guide you to the one that matches your needs.
Through careful examination of their high-grade leathers, flexible sizing, and customization possibilities, I spotlight the strengths of each to empower you in securing your investment while sporting your unique flair.
 

In 2014, Apple CEO Tim Cook announced before an eagerly awaiting crowd that Apple was beginning a new chapter in the tech giant’s history by launching a wearable collection.

As Apple is known to do, the company took a bold risk of moving technology from the phone to the body. From the latest known data as of January 2024, Apple Watch has a 22% market share in Q2 2023.

 

Top 8 Leather Apple Watch Straps For 2024 – Our BEST Choices and Reviews

best apple watch straps

While Apple does not allow for third-party customization of their watch hardware or software, the tech giant did create the watch with clasps that allow users to switch and change their watch straps at will.

Seizing the opportunity, fashion and accessory companies have begun to capitalize on the opportunity to offer customized bands.

Now you can find a cool Apple Watch straps that matches nearly every outfit or activity.

Do you desire to upgrade your Apple Watch with class or color? Looking to surprise someone with a new look for their wrist? Below we’ve collected our top eighth leather straps for Apple Watch in 2024. In building our list, we’ve looked at bands that offer a great combination of style, durability, functionality, and price.


1. BROWN Leather Apple Watch Band (HANDMADE) - Our Top Choice For 2024

Pro's

  • Handcrafted to order
  • Made of Horween dublin leather
  • Durable leather will last a lifetime
  • Develops a beautiful patina over the years
  • Chestnut color is perfect for any outfit
  • Apple watch adapters are already installed
  • Compatible with all series of Apple Watch
  • Can be customized with colorful stitching
  • Look more vintage and antiqued with time and wear

Con’s

  • Feels dense at first but gets softer with time
  • Full-grain leather may have imperfections

At the top of our 2024 list is the Brown (Chestnut) Horween Leather Apple Watch Band - the perfect combination of style, functionality, and durability. This band is made of premium leather sourced from Horween Tannery (located in Chicago, Illinois).

The Horween leather is full-grain cowhide and is not sanded during creation. The leather looks great and will develop a nice patina over time.

brown leather Apple Watch band
brown Apple watch band
brown leather Apple watch strap

The nice Brown (Chestnut) colored leather is nicely breathable, and pairs well with any style. Customizable stitching is also an option with this model. Clasp hardware comes already installed, ready to connect to the 42 or 44mm series.

Wearers may notice that when first worn this band feels bulky or dense because of the tough leather material. However, with time and consistent wear, the leather will begin to conform to your wrist and feel better on the skin.

There also can be small imperfections in the full-grain leather material - a common issue that over time will actually give you a unique look.

2. LEATHER APPLE WATCH BAND - NATURAL COLOR: Classic Look With Durability

Pro's

  • Soft and supple Milwaukee leather
  • Very nice natural color
  • Great for both men and women
  • Comes in three different wrist sizes
  • Deliciously light and comfortable on the wrist
  • Can be custom designed with multicolored stitching
  • Leather is practically odorless
  • Perfect for everyday use

Con’s

  • Third party connectors may not perfectly match the color of watch case
leather apple watch strap
apple watch natural leather band
natural leather apple watch band

Our second selection of bands for 2024 is a classic Apple Watch strap made of real leather and in a natural color. This band is made of American Milwaukee leather, which is soft, supple and durable for everyday wear. Various stitching options are available to further personalize the strap.

The watch band is unisex and looks great on both men and women. The strap is delightfully lightweight, fits comfortably on the hand and is available in three different sizes.


3. Black Leather Apple Watch Band - The Universal Standard

Pro's

  • Universal black color
  • Can be customized with colorful stitching
  • Perfect for everyday use
  • Handmade of black Milwaukee leather
  • Comes in different wrist sizes
  • Apple Watch adapters are installed
  • Completely handcrafted and made to order in the USA

Con’s

  • Leather may feel stiff at first, but it gets softer over time

Third on our list is a standard for any Apple Watch owner - the stylish black leather watch band. When it comes to style for the business day, the Black Milwaukee leather Apple Watch strap is a nice choice.

Crafted with Milwaukee leather and available with customizable, durable stitching, the universal black color makes this option great for men or women and fits nearly any outfit or occasion.

black leather apple watch strap
black leather apple watch band
black leather apple watch straps

Made in the USA from cowhide tanned with vegetable solutions, the black Horween band features an aniline finish, this band is known for being tough and long-lasting. The band is available in several sizes and like others has the adapters pre-installed.

When using it for the first time, the leather may feel stiff or dense. No worries, as the leather ages it will become more malleable wearable.

TAKE A LOOK AT OUR TOP COLLECTIONS

4. Red Leather Apple Watch Band (ITALIAN LEATHER) - A Bold Color For A New Year

Pro's

  • Completely handcrafted in the USA
  • Made of the best quality vegetable tanned leather
  • Sourced from Italy
  • Compatible with all series of Apple Watch
  • Rich red color
  • Can be customized with colorful stitching

Con’s

  • Third party connectors may not perfectly match the color of watch case
red leather apple watch band
red leather apple watch band 44mm
red leather apple watch strap

Looking for an accessory with more personality? Consider the Red Italian Leather Apple Watch Band - our fourth choice for 2024.

rafted with soft Italian leather in the USA, this red leather band exhibits a unique rich red color and a durability standard with Tuscan leather. Made for men and women, this watch strap adds a splash of color that stands out against most watch bands.

The breathable, vegetable-tanned leather is soft on the arm and can be customized with colored stitching to provide extra durability.

The strap comes in three different sizes to fit each series and most wrist sizes. However, because of the red coloring, this strap may seem the most feminine band but it's very attractive for some men too.


5. Double Wrap Leather Apple Watch Band (Chestnut) - Our Top Unique Look Pick

Pro's

  • Made of the premium quality leather
  • Multiple colors available
  • Compatible with all series of Apple Watch
  • Unisex design perfect for men and women
  • Can be customized with colorful stitching
  • Very comfortable to wear

Con’s

  • Leather is not waterproof
  • May look too bulky on small wrists
double wrap apple watch band brown
brown double wrap leather apple watch band
apple watch band leather double wrap

Coming in at number five on our list is an Apple Watch Band featuring a wrap style that circles the arm to provide a fashionable look.

The strap is made of high-quality Milwaukee leather. The leather is then treated with natural solutions to ensure durability and an attractive appearance.

Like other Milwaukee leather accessories, the double strap may have some differences or imperfections in the leather when created. A double strap can also look and feel bulky on small wrists.

However, the strap comes with customizable stitching and is a unisex fit for most wrist sizes. This option will appeal to the fashionista in your world.


6. Brown Double Wrap Leather Apple Watch Band - A Classic Take On Double Strap Style

Pro's

  • Made of the premium quality Milwaukee leather
  • Compatible with all series of Apple Watch
  • Unisex design perfect for men and women
  • Clever design for breathability
  • Soft and flexible straps
  • Similar in style to the Hermès band
  • Leather has almost no smell at all

Con’s

  • Just a little more expensive

The brown leather double-wrap strap is number six on our list and has the same great features as watch number two. Handcrafted from soft vegetable-tanned Tuscan leather, this unisex watch sits comfortably on the wrist while providing breathability thanks to a pleasing double-wrap design.

A great competitor to the popular Hermes watch, this brown double strap watch is a stylish option for those who want something a little more unusual. The strap offers custom stitching and already built-in connectors.

MILWAUKEE LEATHER DOUBLE WRAP APPLE WATCH BAND - NATURAL
LEATHER DOUBLE WRAP APPLE WATCH BAND - NATURAL
DOUBLE WRAP LEATHER APPLE WATCH BAND

The brown double strap will cost you more than others because of the extra leather needed for the double strap. The leather may also seem a bit stiff when worn, but over time it will become pleasant to the touch and, like other brown leather options, will take on a unique patina as it ages.

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- Personalized Aprons
- Leather Journals
- Handmade Leather Bags

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7. VINTAGE LEATHER SINGLE APPLE WATCH BAND -  Timeless Popularity

Pro's

  • Handmade in the USA in vintage leather
  • Super beautiful strap color
  • Soft and flexible straps
  • Available in some other colors
  • Easy installation and removal
  • Compatible with all series of Apple Watch
  • Soft and gentle on the skin

Con’s

  • Not everyone will be suited to such a colorful design

Timeless Leather

Crafted from vintage leather, the Mahogany Apple Watch Band transcends fleeting fads with its classic styling. Shaping to your wrist over time, its unparalleled comfort stems from meticulous design and durable materials built to endure.

With hardware pre-installed for immediate wear, the band exudes practicality as much as style.

Distinguished details like the square strap holes add dimensional depth absent from many competitors. Investing in this considered adornment connects you to traditions of craft while keeping pace with modern innovations. Ultimately, its versatile elegance will complement your wardrobe for years to come.


Related Straps

ITALIAN LEATHER APPLE WATCH BAND - PINK

ITALIAN LEATHER APPLE WATCH BAND - PINK

$75.00 $49.00

VINTAGE LEATHER SINGLE APPLE WATCH BAND - WHISKEY

Regular pricVINTAGE LEATHER SINGLE APPLE WATCH BAND - WHISKEY

e

$49.00 $34.30 

Italian Leather double wrap band

MILWAUKEE LEATHER APPLE WATCH BAND - OLIVE

$75.00 $49.00


8. GRAY ITALIAN LEATHER APPLE WATCH BAND - A Great Pick For Long-Lasting Style

Pro's

  • Handmade of best quality Italian leather
  • Exceptionally durable leather does not crease or pebble and remains smooth and supple forever
  • Naturally resistant to water
  • Develops patina and even more complex color and luster over time
  • Compatible with all series of Apple Watch

Con’s

  • Product price $49

Number eight on our list is a unique strap that lasts well over time. Natural Italian leather is often used to make high-end products.

The Italian leather is very durable and made of a solid connective fabric. This strap for Apple Watch looks amazingly beautiful and stylish. Suitable for most hands, this strap will be a great addition to your collection.

ITALIAN LEATHER APPLE WATCH BAND IN GRAY COLOR
GRAY ITALIAN LEATHER APPLE WATCH BAND
ITALIAN LEATHER APPLE WATCH BAND - GRAY

The durability withstands most normal wear and tear, withstanding scratches and exposure to most liquids. However, leather does not withstand exposure to water. A unique property of Italian leather is its resistance to creasing. It always remains supple and acquires a beautiful patina as it ages.

Over time, the color and luster become more complex. This strap comes in several color options


9. Orange ITALIAN Leather Apple Watch Band - The Adventurous Watch-Wearer’s Choice

Pro's

  • Handmade from high-quality Italian leather
  • Provides an expensive, high-end look
  • Exceptionally durable leather does not crease over time
  • Naturally resistant to water
  • Compatible with all series of Apple Watch
  • Comes with large selection of stitching colors

Con’s

  • Limited color variety

We offer another splash of color! This time it's an orange leather strap that will bring a twist to the life of the bold and adventurous watch wearer.
This unbeatable Apple watch strap comes in rugged, high-quality Italian leather. The leather coating is pleasant to the touch and ensures the strap's longevity when worn daily. The leather provides an intense look while still being enjoyable to wear.

ORANGE LEATHER APPLE WATCH BAND
ITALIAN LEATHER APPLE WATCH BAND - ORANGE
LEATHER APPLE WATCH BAND - ORANGE

The striking appearance also has a higher price tag and a limited color selection. Rugged Italian leather sits slightly stiffer on the hand than the other options on our list, so you have to match your desire for durability or comfort with the look of Italian leather.


10. APPLE WATCH CUFF BAND OF MILWAUKEE LEATHER - NATURAL COLOR: Best Pick for Band Options

Pro's

  • Crafted of the high quality USA made leather
  • Can be used with and without the cuff
  • Cooks and feels fantastic
  • Similar in style to the Hermès cuff band
  • Milwaukee leather will look nicer and develop a patina from being handled

Con’s

  • No stitching color choices
  • Leather may feel stiff at first, but it gets softer over time

Lastly, our latest top pick for 2023 is the Milwaukee leather cuff strap in natural color. This fashionable cuff strap has the same durability as other Milwaukee leather straps and has a fantastic look and feel. The cuff strap can be used with or without a cuff, offering additional personalization options depending on your outfit or other accessories.

The band’s look is reminiscent of the popular Hermes-style cuff band but built with USA-made Milwaukee leather. Great for men or women, this strap fits most arms. However, the cuff may seem large or bulky on small wrists if you are not used to accessories of this size.
The cuff band is only offered in one stitch color and may take time to fit well when first worn. However, the leather will form with wear and develop a unique patina with age. This one fits the bill for those looking for a cuff-style band that changes quickly.




Buying Your Next Band - A Quick Guide

With so many ways to customize an Apple Watch, we had trouble narrowing a list down to ten! How do you know which one is right for you? As you look for your next watch band, consider the following important details:

APPLE WATCH BAND SIZE GUIDE - INFOGRAPHICS

D - APPLE WATCH BANSIZE GUIDE

The Materials Making Up The Band

When it comes to the construction of accessories like a watchband, many will choose the cheaper option to protect their budget. However, a cheaply-produced watch band may end up costing you more in the end as you continuously replace worn out or broken straps.

Being close to your hands, your watch will take a beating as you wear it every day. When you look at buying a band, you will need a strap that can stay strong while still looking stylish.

Common in each of the ten straps above is a common material - high-grade tanned leather. While locally-sourced leather is more expensive than plastic or metal bands, consider the price as an investment in the life of the watch.

Well-made leather, when properly maintained, will hold its shape and structure for years, while metal and plastic bands can break easily. Consider investing in a slightly more expensive but longer-lasting option when picking the construction of the band.

Make The Right Connection

Without the ability to connect to the main watch face, a nice band doesn’t serve much use. When looking at accessories, be sure to consider the hardware that hooks both pieces together. It was nice of Apple to make their watch bands versatile, many watchbands do not arrive with the hardware to connect the clasps.

As you search for a new band, look for the proper connector size and style pre-installed on the material. A wrong size could leave your watch at risk of disconnecting during regular use or worse - not connecting at all!

Form Over Function?

The way you intend to use your Apple Watch will help determine what type of band or strap to purchase. Apple has marketed the Apple Watch to be a multipurpose watch that is wearable in every conceivable way - whether as a fitness tracker or a date-night accessory. Depending on the way you will use your watch, the strap needs to hold against the elements.

If you are looking to use your device as a fitness tracker, be sure to check whether the strap is truly waterproof or holds up against sweat and dirt. There is a huge difference between being scratch/water-resistant or waterproof! While an expensive leather band may look great, the cowhide may not hold up well after that swim in the pool!

The great thing about having the ability to switch straps is the flexibility to easily change your bands between activities. Take the time to see the band may be switched as quickly and as often as your clothes, which will ensure that your bands keep looking and functioning great!

top best apple watch bands
best cream leather watch band

Conclusion

In creating our top ten list of new bands for the Apple Watch, we looked for bands that had great style and withstood everyday use. When it comes to wristwear, the material around the wrist needs to work just as hard as the technology inside.

When buying your next Apple Watch accessory, consider the look, feel, and cost of the band. These important elements will ensure that your investment lasts and gives back in style and comfort!

Do you agree with our top ten list above? Let us know your favorites in the comments below!

Last updated: 2023/02/16

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