The 12 Best Apple Watch Ultra 2 Bands in 2024

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is built for the outdoors, featuring a rugged, durable design, multi-day battery life, and an ultra-bright screen. It's one of the best Apple Watches but only delivers on that utility if it's sporting a suitable band. Though new purchases come with one of Apple's options, you can easily swap for something else.

Our top picks include the Nomad Rugged Band; it's made of durable rubber, uses stainless steel buckles, and features a breathable, lightweight design. We also like the Apple Trail Loop; this classic Ultra band is made of soft nylon that's breathable and comfortable, especially while active.

Below are 11 of the best Apple Watch Ultra 2 bands including picks from Nomad, Zagg, and Apple. There's a variety of leather, titanium, nylon, and durable rubber to choose from, and they can fit anyone's style. For picks suited to the Series 9 or SE, see our guide to the best Apple Watch Series 9 bands. 

Best Apple Watch Ultra 2 bands

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• The Trail Loop from Apple has a woven nylon design that's lightweight and durable, and great for users who spend time hiking or cycling.

• Surfers, kayakers, and swimmers need the Ocean Band from Apple. It's made of comfortable, durable rubber and is elastic making it easy to slip on over a wetsuit sleeve.

• The All Day Comfort Microbial band from Otterbox is one of the most comfortable bands we've worn, featuring soft, durable rubber that's pleasant to wear even during intense workouts. It also comes in 11 different colors to fit anyone’s style.

• The Rugged Band uses durable, waterproof elastomer, features stainless steel buckles, and has a comfortable, yet snug, fit.

• Urban Armor Gear's band has a hook-and-loop clasp system, making it easy to find a snug, secure fit. It's also made of nylon, giving it a highly durable edge.

• The Alpine Loop from Apple has a woven design that's essentially one continuous band. This helps reduce chafing and hot spots, and it's available in three color options.

• This band from Barton is made of durable silicone which is perfect for the Ultra-wearing gym-goer. Plus, it's available in 19 different colorways which goes great with anyone's personal style.

• The Spigen DuraPro Flex is a premium woven nylon band for under $30. It also features an easy-to-use buckle clasp and uses durable and lightweight fabric.

• The Ultra 2 also looks great outfitted in leather and this band from Bandwerk gives off a truly vintage leather style that goes perfectly with the Ultra 2.

• The Nomad Titanium Band does a great job of classing up the Ultra 2 when it isn't in the backcountry. It's designed with heavy-duty yet lightweight titanium that's both stylish and tough.

• Zagg may be a screen protector brand but it also makes premium Apple Watch bands. The Highland is a quality nylon strap that's perfect for bike rides, hikes, and outdoor runs.

• Urban Armor Gear’s Apple Watch Band is a perfect Ultra 2 companion as it features durable yet soft silicone, a stainless steel clasp, and a textured interior for a comfortable, secure fit.

What to consider when shopping for the best Apple Watch Ultra 2 band

The most important thing to keep in mind while shopping is how you intend to use your Apple Watch Ultra 2. For example, if you plan on using it for outdoor activities only, you probably shouldn't invest in a leather band as your daily go-to. Instead, something made of woven nylon or rubber would be best. 

However, leather bands are a solid choice for Ultra 2 users who want a band they can swap to while in the office or out to dinner. The same goes for metal bands. 

You'll also want to ensure that if you're buying a third-party band, it comes from a reputable company. Brands like Nomad or Otterbox are well-known and respected, so it's more likely that whatever you buy from them will be of higher quality.

FAQs

What are the best Apple Watch Ultra 2 bands? 

Ultimately, this depends on your own personal preference and use case. There are several quality Apple Watch Ultra 2 bands made of various materials that are perfect for a range of users. Athletes may want something made of rubber or nylon, while those who want to add more style to the wearable can opt for leather or metal.

Can the Ultra 2 use any Apple Watch band?

Yes, so long as it's the right size. Make sure to double-check the sizing of any band you buy for the Ultra 2, and that it can fit with the watch's 49mm case. Many of the best Apple Watch bands vary in size and are intended more for the Series 9 or SE. 

Do keep in mind that any band compatible with the original Apple Watch Ultra will also work with the Ultra 2. This means that any of the best Apple Watch Ultra bands can also be considered Apple Watch Ultra 2 bands.

Is it better to buy a band from Apple band or a third-party option?  

This depends on the third party. Apple's in-house options are known for their durability and are among the best Apple Watch Ultra 2 bands you can buy, but there are still several third-party brands that are trusted.

An easy way to decipher which third-party brand is reliable to buy from is whether you recognize the brand name or not. Of course, even known third-party brands may offer the occasional sub-par product, but a good rule of thumb while shopping is to buy from trusted companies.

Are Apple Watch Ultra 2 bands more durable than other Apple Watch bands?  

They can be, yes. Many Apple Watch Ultra 2 bands are designed to hold up to extreme wear and tear and are sometimes more durable in construction than those intended for the Apple Watch Series 9. This isn't always the case, though, as even the best Apple Watch Series 9 bands are highly durable.

Can you use an Apple Watch Series 9 band with the Apple Watch Ultra 2? 

Yes and no. Some bands that are sized for the smaller case size of the Apple Watch Series 9 will not work for the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Similarly, bands sized for the Apple Watch Ultra 2 will likely be too big for some Series line models. It's important to check the sizing of both the watch band you're purchasing and your Apple Watch to confirm the correct fit.

Fitness Tech Editor, Insider Reviews

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