Apple Watch Sport Loop vs. Sport Band: which should you get?

I’ve tested every Apple Watch launched to date, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned about using them it’s not to underestimate the importance of the band you use. I’ve amassed a vast collection of the best Apple Watch bands as a result, both to suit different styles and activities, and if you’re going to be using the watch for workouts in particular it’s vital to pick the right strap.

The two best options overall for sports use are the Apple Watch Sport Loop and Sport Band. The loop is made from a soft nylon material, while the band is made from silicone.

Both are great for workouts, but they have different pros and cons, so if you’re planning on buying one of the best Apple Watches then it’s worth considering these when picking the band to go with it.

Apple Watch Sport Loop vs. Sport Band: Price

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Both the Sport Loop and Sport Band cost $49 / £49, whether you’re opting for the standard band or the special Nike versions of each. Both bands are available in S/M and M/L sizes and have options to fit 40mm, 42mm and 46mm cases. They are compatible with all Apple Watches including the Ultra models.

Apple updates the colors available regularly and refreshed the range following the launch of the Apple Watch Series 11. The Sport Loop is available in five colors, as is the Nike Sport Loop, whereas there are seven colors of the Sport Band available, plus five colors of the Nike Sport band.

Apple Watch Sport Loop vs. Sport Band: Design and comfort

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The nylon Sport Loop attaches using velcro and is easily adjusted by simply pulling the band or loosening it. Since there are no buckles or pins on the band you can pull it tight against the skin without it feeling uncomfortable, and the soft nylon breathes well in hot conditions in my experience.

I find that the Sport Loop is barely noticeable on my wrist, whereas I do feel the silicone Sport Band more. It uses a pin and you have to tuck one end of the band under the other when fastening it, and I find it can pull on my arm hairs a little when I do this.

That said, the smooth material on the Sport Band is still comfortable to wear for long periods, and if you opt for one of the Nike Sport Bands the strap has holes throughout the band to make it feel cooler when using it for workouts.

Apple Watch Sport Loop vs. Sport Band: Sports use

I’m a keen runner and have run hundreds of miles (including marathons) using both the Sport Loop and Sport Band, as well using them for other workouts including swimming and sweaty indoor bike rides and HIIT workouts.

Both secure the watch on the wrist reliably no matter how vigorous your workout is, but it’s easier to tighten and loosen the Sport Loop before and after training. The fact you don’t have to rely on a hole being in the right spot to fasten it also means you get the perfect fit on any wrist, which is important for comfort but also positioning the optical heart rate sensor correctly to get the best readings, especially during runs.

The silicone band does have its advantages for swimming or very sweaty workouts though, because you can very easily clean and dry it. The nylon band does dry fairly quickly after a shower in my experience, and I don’t mind it feeling a little soggy straight after a session, but the silicone band is better for this.

For sport use I do tend to prefer the Nike version of the Sport Band than the standard Sport Band, because of the extra holes in the strap, which make it more breathable. The standard Sport Band looks better outside of training though, in my opinion.

Apple Watch Sport Loop vs. Sport Band: Durability

The other big advantage to the Sport Band is its durability. I still have bands I used with the original Apple Watch and they are good as new. The silicone is easy to keep clean and will last forever.

With the Sport Loop, you have to be a bit more careful — I once ruined a beloved blue one by catching it on something and scuffing up the nylon — and you need to wash and dry it regularly to stop smells developing.

It is still a durable band though and I still use some Sport Loops that I’ve had for over five years, but the colors have faded a little, and the band has stretched out slightly after being pulled tight day after day for workouts.

Apple Watch Sport Loop vs. Sport Band: Verdict

I prefer to use the Apple Watch Sport Loop myself, finding it more comfortable to wear 24/7 and easier to adjust the fit for workouts. I also prefer the style of the nylon band and don’t mind it feeling a little damp on my wrist for a short period after workouts.

The Sport Band will probably be a better option for swimmers in particular though, and the nylon band does take a bit more looking after than the indestructible silicone on the Sport Band.

Of course the other solution here is simply to get one of both bands and swap between them as and when required, or two Sport Loops so you can let one dry while wearing the other. If you’re deciding what band to get with your Apple Watch at purchase though, I’d start with a Sport Loop.

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