Updated March 2026 · 8 min read
Your Apple Watch came with a strap. It does the job. But does it excite you? Does it make you feel like the outfit is complete? Does it catch the light in a way that makes you glance at your wrist and think, "Yes"?
Probably not. And that's fine, because the default strap was never meant to be the final word. It's a starting point. The real personality of your Apple Watch comes from the strap you choose, and choosing well means finding the intersection of comfort, style, and quality at a price that doesn't make you wince.
At Belvia London, we've curated an Apple Watch strap collection that covers every style from boardroom polish to weekend casual. Here are our top picks for 2026.
1. Stainless Steel Adjustable Strap, £37
This is the strap that transforms your Apple Watch from a fitness tracker into fine jewellery. The polished stainless steel links have a weight and sheen that feels genuinely premium, the kind of strap that makes people assume you spent considerably more than you actually did.
The adjustable design is what sets this apart from cheaper metal bands. Rather than fumbling with pin-removal tools to resize, this strap features a micro-adjustment clasp that lets you find the perfect fit in seconds. It's the small details like this that separate a good strap from a great one.
Best for: Work, formal events, date nights, and anyone who wants their Apple Watch to look like traditional jewellery. Pair it with our stainless steel phone cases for a fully coordinated metallic look.
Shop Stainless Steel Adjustable →
2. Stainless Steel Silver Strap, £37
The classic silver link bracelet, reimagined for the Apple Watch. If the Adjustable model is about modern convenience, the Silver is about timeless elegance. Traditional link construction creates a bracelet-style band that drapes beautifully around the wrist.
Silver stainless steel is the most versatile metal finish, it complements both warm and cool skin tones, pairs with gold and silver jewellery equally, and looks appropriate from the gym to a wedding. It's the strap you'd buy if you could only ever own one.
The links are individually finished with polished edges and brushed centres, creating a subtle play of light that catches the eye without overwhelming. It weighs more than silicone straps, which some people see as a downside, but we'd argue the weight adds to the sense of quality. A watch should feel like something.
For more on pairing your watch strap with your phone case, see our matching guide, plus our Apple Watch strap outfit guide, strap and phone case combos, and our Apple Watch straps for small wrists picks.
3. Milanese Loop Strap, £26
The Milanese Loop is one of those designs that has been perfected over centuries. The woven mesh construction dates back to 19th-century Milan, and the technique translates beautifully to a modern watch strap. The mesh is smooth against the skin, breathable in warm weather, and infinitely adjustable thanks to the magnetic closure.
At £26, this is where premium meets accessible. The magnetic clasp means you get a custom fit every time, no holes, no buckles, no compromise. Simply slide the magnetic section until it feels right, and the powerful rare-earth magnets hold it securely in place.
The Milanese Loop is particularly popular with women who wear their Apple Watch all day and need something that transitions seamlessly from morning yoga to afternoon meetings to evening drinks. It does all three without looking out of place at any point. See our deep-dive comparing Milanese loop vs braided strap.
4. Braided Fabric Strap, £26
Comfort is king with the Braided Fabric strap. Made from recycled polyester yarn woven into a stretchy braided design, this strap feels like wearing nothing at all, which is exactly what you want from something that stays on your wrist 16+ hours a day.
The stretchable construction means there's no clasp at all. You simply slide it over your hand and onto your wrist, where it sits comfortably without pinching or sliding. It's the most comfortable Apple Watch strap we've tested, full stop.
Available in multiple sizes to ensure the right tension, the Braided Fabric is ideal for workouts, sleep tracking, and all-day wear. It dries quickly after hand washing, doesn't retain odours, and the braided texture actually looks better with age as the weave softens slightly.
Best for: Gym sessions, everyday casual wear, sleep tracking, and anyone who values comfort above all else.
5. Tempered Glass Watch Case, £8
Technically an accessory rather than a strap, but we'd be remiss not to include it. The Tempered Glass Watch Case wraps your Apple Watch in a slim, near-invisible layer of protection that guards against scratches, scuffs, and minor impacts.
At just £8, it's the cheapest insurance policy you'll ever buy. The tempered glass covers the screen while maintaining full touch sensitivity and display clarity. The surrounding bumper protects the watch body and Digital Crown without adding noticeable bulk.
Pair it with any strap for complete protection, the case is designed to work seamlessly with all Belvia London straps. For more on protecting your tech, see our stainless steel strap care guide.
Which Strap Is Right for You?
| Strap | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless Steel Adjustable | £37 | Formal & professional settings |
| Stainless Steel Silver | £37 | Timeless everyday elegance |
| Milanese Loop | £26 | All-day versatility |
| Braided Fabric | £26 | Comfort & fitness |
| Tempered Glass Case | £8 | Screen & body protection |
Browse All Apple Watch Straps →
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Apple Watch models are your straps compatible with?
Our straps are compatible with all Apple Watch models from Series 4 onwards, including Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch Ultra. Each product page specifies exact compatibility, but generally, 38/40/41mm and 42/44/45/49mm sizes are available.
Are stainless steel straps heavy?
They're heavier than silicone or fabric straps, but most people find the weight reassuring rather than burdensome. Our stainless steel straps weigh approximately 60-80g, which is comparable to a traditional metal wristwatch. After a day or two, you won't notice the difference.
Can I swim with a Milanese Loop strap?
While the stainless steel construction is water-resistant, we recommend removing metal straps before swimming in chlorinated or salt water to preserve the finish long-term. For swimming, the Braided Fabric strap is the better choice as it dries quickly and resists salt damage.
How do I find the right size for the Braided Fabric strap?
Measure your wrist circumference with a flexible tape measure and refer to our size guide on the product page. The braided design has some stretch, so if you're between sizes, go for the smaller option, it will expand to fit comfortably.
Do you offer a warranty on watch straps?
Yes, all Belvia London Apple Watch straps come with a 12-month warranty covering manufacturing defects. If your strap develops any issues within this period, we'll replace it free of charge.