Size is the most notable difference when comparing the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Series 9. So, not all the best Apple Watch bands will work great with the larger smartwatch. That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive guide to the best Ultra 2 bands, including our favorite, the Nomad Rugged Band.
TL;DR – These are the top Apple Watch Ultra Bands to shop
- Nomad Rugged Band – Best Overall
- LKEITY Magnetic Leather Bands – Best No-Hassle Pick
- MioHHR Stainless Steel Watch Band with Case – Best Luxury Pick
- amBand M1 Sport Series – Best Protection
- Hehighti Rugged Nylon Band – Best Adjustable Nylon Band
- GLuYuan Luxury Metal Case – Best Luxury Pick Under $100
- Apple Watch Band Trail Loop – Best Environmentally-Friendly Band (Carbon-Neutral)
Designed more rugged than other Apple Watch models, the Ultra 2 has a titanium case and a wealth of features that’ll make adventurers swoon, and even more fitness features on WatchOS 11 were announced at WWDC 2024. That means you need an equally durable watch band that can keep up. So, whether you’re after extra protection, comfort, or fashionable flair, we’ve found seven Apple Watch Ultra 2 bands that deliver.
Still haven’t gotten the Ultra 2? Check out the best Apple Watch deals here.
The Best Apple Watch Ultra Bands in 2024
1. Nomad Rugged Band
Best Overall Apple Watch Ultra 2 Band
If you’ve invested in the Apple Watch Ultra 2, chances are good that you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast and want a band ready to keep up on all your adventures, from camping and hiking to swimming and sailing. Luckily, Nomad’s Rugged Band is built tough, and as a bonus, it costs significantly less than Apple’s own watch bands. That means you can splurge on one of the best Apple Watch cases for an extra dose of protection.
The Nomad Rugged Band uses FKM fluoroelastomer rubber, a material that can withstand extreme temperatures and excessive exposure to sunlight, is resistant to oils and chemicals, and is waterproof. So, anywhere you take the Ultra 2, the band will hold up just as well, if not better. Plus, it’s super easy to clean. Even with that impressive durability, the band remains lightweight and flexible with ribbing for extra breathability, ensuring your wrist doesn’t get too sweaty or uncomfortable during all-day wear.
Beyond the fluoroelastomer rubber, the band is equipped with a rugged marine grade 316 stainless steel buckle and lugs for an ultra-secure fit that won’t budge when scaling rock walls or biking mountain trails. That’s important because the last thing you want to do is lose your almost $800 Apple Watch Ultra off the side of a cliff.
The entire design of the Nomad Rugged Band is sleek and simple, matching perfectly with the aesthetics of the Ultra 2. It comes in three colors: blue, orange, or black. You can even choose the color of the lugs and buckle: black or silver. Just be prepared for the band to feel a little clunky on smaller wrists, which shouldn’t be a surprise given the size of the Apple Watch Ultra 2.
2. LKEITY Magnetic Leather Bands
Latchless leather band on a budget
The LKEITY Magnetic Leather Band is great for users who value convenience and want to avoid the hassle of using latches to fasten their watch. Keeping the band secure are 35 neodymium magnets that snaps on pretty easily. For those looking for a bit of variety or color coordination, there are 16 different colors to choose from. When it comes to durability, the LKEITY Magnetic Leather Band can withstand up to 20 pounds of tensile force and is sweat resistant. All of this comes with a reasonable sub-$20 price tag, too.
3. MioHHR Stainless Steel Watch Band
Best Luxury Apple Watch Ultra Band
If you want an Apple Watch Ultra 2 with the flair of a Rolex or Patek Philippe, look no further. Available in 12 colors, the MioHHR Stainless Steel Watch Band is made of 316 steel that also surrounds the watch face itself. Adding to that durability is a 2.5mm thick band with a weight that’s a little under one pound. The frame protection design also allows users to charge their smartwatch without disassembly. Though the band retails for $50, it’s currently discounted on Amazon.
4. amBand M1 Sport Series
Best Protective Apple Watch Ultra Band
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 might be built tough, but a little extra protection doesn’t hurt, and that’s exactly what the amBand M1 Sport Series delivers. Beyond its durable TPU band with a long-lasting stainless steel buckle, you get a raised bezel bumper and screen protector for all-around protection. Don’t worry, you still get cutouts to take full advantage of the watch’s controls, and you won’t need to remove anything for charging. Plus, if you’re after something other than black, the band is available in various colors, while you’ll get access to exclusive watch faces when you’re sick of the best Apple Watch faces.
5. Hehighti Rugged Nylon Band
Best Durable Nylon Apple Watch Ultra Band
If you prefer nylon, the Hehighti Rugged Nylon Band features a durable design without sacrificing comfort. Coming in with 11 different designs for a cost between $18 – $22 dollars, some versions feature leather patches for added aesthetics. The band also connects through a metal latch that is easy to both put on and take off. The adjustable sports loop also lets you adjust the fit of the watch.
6. GLuYuan Luxury Metal Case
Full protection under $100
The GLuYuan Luxury Metal Cast features a Zinc Alloy and Aluminum Alloy case that’s extremely durable thanks to a silicone lining. To make sure you can actually, you know, use the watch, the GLuYuan case has precision-cut openings for the buttons, microphones and speakers. Keeping the $73 dollar band secure is a nice metal buckle to boot. Although this band only comes in black, the case itself is available in three colors!
7. Apple Watch Band Trail Loop
Ready for every adventure (and environmentally friendly)
Apple designed the $99 Trail Loop specifically for the Apple Watch Ultra 2, and it’s just as ready for adventure as the watch itself. With it, you get a durable nylon band that’s sweatproof, lightweight, and easy to adjust on the go thanks to a special pull tab. You’ll be happy rocking it throughout your average day or when you’re off hiking, rock climbing, or biking. And if you’re looking to minimize your carbon footprint, you’ll be glad to know Apple made this band entirely carbon-neutral.
Apple Watch Ultra Bands FAQ
Do Apple Watch Ultra Bands Work With Apple Watch Ultra 2?
If you're looking for a band that works with the Apple Watch Ultra 2, it's worth noting that any band compatible with the the original Apple Watch Ultra will also be compatible with the Ultra 2. You don't need to buy a band specific to the newer model.
Can You Swap Apple Watch Ultra Bands?
To swap out the band on an Apple Watch Ultra, you simply need to hold down the band release and then slide the band across the watch to remove it. You can find specific instructions available on the Apple website.
Are all Apple Ultra watch bands waterproof?
No, they are not waterproof, but they are water resistent. Apple states that the Apple Watch Ultra and later models have a water-resistance rating of 100 meters. More info can be found on Apple's Support hub.
Ural Garrett is an Inglewood based writer, photographer, and content curator. Check him out at Uralg.com
