Wearing a nice watch is a timeless fashion statement, but what if you have a larger wrist? Finding the right watch strap that fits well can be tough, and depending on your lifestyle you have different needs. The band you have for your dress watch isn’t the same as the one you need when you’re putting in a good workout.
Ever been running with a heavy metal watch band? It can be pretty uncomfortable, and even a little annoying. Or you put on a suit and throw on your favorite fit-bit or apple watch with a lime green band. There is a watch for every occasion, and you want to have the right type of watch band for each for the most comfortable fit.
In this article, we will talk about everything you need to know about watch bands for larger wrists. We will discuss the materials used, how to measure for a watch band and give you some stylish options and tips for a perfect fit.
At the end of the article, we will also give you some options for watch bands with larger wrists that have been reviewed and tested, and we think are some of the best in their class at a good price point.
What are the best watch bands for larger wrists?
1 Importance Of A Proper Fit
A watch that fits your wrist properly not only enhances your comfort, it also gives a more polished look to your style. Something you wouldn’t think of, it even makes it easier to read the time. You’ve all had that loose fitting watch band, where you have to shake your wrist a few times to get the watch face in place to see it.
Not only do you have to get the right band size, you also have to choose the correct type of material, the thickness of the strap, how wide the strap should be. You also want a lighter watch strap for sports, and a more refined watch band for formal events. Or you might like a thick metal band.
Whatever your taste in watches, you need to have the correct watch band for a large wrist to ensure your comfort. Using these tips, you can make a more educated decision before you let go of your hard earned money and give yourself the best chance of finding yourself the best watch band for a larger wrist.
2 Types of materials for watch bands
You can buy watch bands made from various materials, including leather, rubber, metal, nylon and more. Each material type has different benefits and comes in many styles, so it’s important to consider your needs and preferences before you select the perfect band for your wrist.
There isn’t a specific type of material you need if you are looking for a watch band for a large wrist, it mostly comes down to preference and use case. If you use the watch when you are exercising then a rubber or nylon band is the best option to avoid any damage from sweat and moisture. For everyday use, any type of material will do as long as it is a good fit, comfortable on your wrist and fashionable so it doesn’t clash with your outfit.
You can also have different bands for the same watch, so you can swap the bands depending on your activity, if you need to color coordinate to your outfit and so on.
3 Measuring your wrist size
It is really important to measure your wrist size before you purchase a watch band for accuracy. You can use a measuring tape, or get a piece of string and measure the circumference of your wrist then measure the string. You also need to make sure you are measuring the part of your wrist where the watch will sit, as this will affect how the watch fits.
If you have an average sized wrist, then you can pretty much buy any wristband as most watch bands are made with the average wrist size in mind. A watch band for a larger wrist though is harder to come by, and you can get extendable or custom bands, but it is still the best practice to have your wrist measurements ready.
This is particularly important if you’re buying a watch strap for a big wrist online. Every maker may have a different definition of what ´Large´ is, so always check the maker’s size guide and compare it to your own measurements to make sure you get the right fit.
4 Options for larger wrist sizes
If you have a bigger wrist size, you will need a longer and maybe a wider strap to ensure the perfect fit. Many brands do offer watch bands designed specifically for larger wrists, and if you can buy the watch and the band from the same place, it is a lot more convenient.
If you do buy a watch because you really like it, but the strap is too small, you can then buy a larger band from another maker. You need to be sure that the strap is compatible with the watch though so be careful. In most cases watch bands attach in the same way with a pin, but you have to get the correct width where the band will attach.
Other watches like FitBits and Garmin watches have their own specific type of attachments, but you can also find larger watch bands for these types of watched as well.
5 The essential considerations when choosing a watch band
When you’re choosing a watch band for a larger wrist, there are a few factors to consider, including the color, the style and the material. Think about your lifestyle, are you very active all of the time, what kinds of clothing do you wear? Are you always wearing a suit, do you mix it up, what’s your general style?
You also need to consider what your personal preferences are, and mixing this with the information we are providing, you can make a better choice and assure you get a comfortable fit each time you buy a new watch band.
6 How to adjust watch bands for a perfect fit
Even after you have followed all of these steps and purchased your watch band, you may need to make small adjustments to get the optimal fit. This can include adding/removing links, adjusting the clasp or the buckle, or you may even choose to use an extender.
Before you go and grab your toolbox, check the manufacturer’s guise as they will let you know how to add or remove links from your watch if you have that type of band. This may require specialist tools so you would be better off taking the watch to a jeweler. If you bought a band for a larger wrist specifically and the size doesn’t match the description, you should always send it back and get a refund or a replacement.
Some watch bands cannot be altered, especially for sports watches like a Fitbit, you would have to make sure you get the correct size when making your purchase. If you like a leather watch band for a larger wrist, then you are always best to get this personalized to your wrist. This way you can specify how wide, how long, and even the type of leather used to get the best fit possible.
7 Care and Maintenance for watch bands
Now you have gone through all of these steps, and found yourself the perfect watch band for a larger wrist, you need to take care of your new watch band to make sure it lasts and you get the best out of it.
Proper care and maintenance of your watch band will ensure it lasts longer and stays looking good for a long time. Cleaning your band regularly is essential to keep it from staining from things like dust, dirt and sweat. You also need to choose the right product to clean your watch band as some chemicals can also stain certain types of material.
The best Apple watch bands for large wrists
If you have an Apple watch, but you also have a wrist larger than average, you will need an Apple watch band for larger wrists. We know how frustrating it can be when the standard size doesn’t fit and you can’t find the right size. You are not alone though, there are many people out there with large wrists.
There are some really good options out there that will give you a comfortable fit and not cost you an arm and a leg. We have selected our favorite Apple watch bands for extra large wrists, and included options with different different designs and materials depending on your preference.
1 Carterjett Black Tire Rubber Tread Sport Strap
The Carterjett is made from a comfortable silicone material, and has the appearance of a rubber tire tread. The band also has channels on the back to give it more breathability making this strap good for exercising and an active lifestyle.
If you exercise or have an active lifestyle in general, this is a great choice of an Apple watch band for a larger wrist. The XL/XXL size fits wrist with a circumference of 8-10 inches. It will also fit every generation of Apple watch.
2 Carterjett Extra Large Nylon NATO Band
If you are not a fan of the rubber tread look, then the traditional NATO style band might be the one for you. Carterjetts’s Nato band is made of a durable lightweight, nylon material.
This Apple watch band is really easy to adjust, and perfect for a larger wrist. Nylon is a very durable material, lightweight and easy to clean so a great choice of band for larger wrists. The XXL size will fit a 8-10.5 inch wrist.
3 Carterjett Carbon Fiber Dress Band
The third offering from Carterjett is the elegant and classy carbon fiber look leather Apple band for larger wrists. this company makes really good watch bands at a really affordable price point, and we wanted to give you different options from this brand.
This Apple watch band is more for formal and casual every day use. You will always look ready for business meetings or a fancy night out with this one. It combines well with most styles, and the XXL size will fit wrists 8.25 to 10 inches.
4 Wearlizer Leather Apple Watch Band
If you prefer a more something more delicate, then consider a thin leather band for your Apple watch. This Wearlizer band is genuine leather, and comes in a variety of colors to match any outfit you have.
As this is a leather band, you will need to take care of the leather, don’t let it dry out too much and avoid cleaning it with harmful chemicals, as this can stain and damage the leather. The band fits all apple watches, and the larger size will fit wrists up to 8.4 inches.
5 Speidel Twist-O-Flex Metal Stainless Steel Stretch Band
If you like a classic link style metal bracelet, but don-t want to be adding and removing links, this stretch option for an Apple watch band for larger wrists from Speidel is the way to go .
It has the classic look of a link bracelet, but it is stretchable so no need to mess around with special tools trying to remove links. The XL will fit a wrist up to 8.9 inches in diameter, and you get an extra 5 inches of stretch.
6 Mifa Hybrid Sports Leather Apple Watch Band
This Mifa Hybrid is a really cool design, with leather on the outside and a comfortable silicone lining on the inside. The watch is designed to be both fashionable, and to withstand sweat.
It’s a great watch band for working out while not looking like a traditional sports band. You may not like the rubber versions, or it may even irritate your skin. You will add style and functionality with this band, and they have options to fit a wrist up to 9 inches.
7 Epuly Stainless Steel Metal Apple Watch Band
A classic metal bracelet crafted from premium 304 steel, the Epuly metal Apple watch band for larger wrists comes in many colors and combines well with any outfit.
The band will fit a wrist up to 9.05 inches, but comes with its very own link removal tool kit so you can make adjustment if needed to get the perfect fit.
8 Gelishi Military Apple Watch Band For Large Wrists
Looking for something a little more rugged and durable, go for the Gelishi Military Band. Compatible with most Apple watches, offer comfort and all around protection for your watch.
The band is made of flexible shock proof TPU, gives a rugged look and protects your watch from scratches and shocks with the included screen protector. The adjustable sports band fits wrists up to 8.46 inches. They also offer this band in 20 different colors to match any outfits you have in mind.
Samsung watch bands for large wrists
Smart watches are really popular today, and we wear them all day along including when we exercise to keep track of our fitness, so you want to have something that’s stylish but comfortable. As the popularity increases, we get more and more options to choose from. If you have a big wrist though, these options can be pretty narrow.
We searched and reviewed some of the best Samsung watch bands, some better for dress, others better for exercise, then there are the hybrid leather Samsung watch bands that can be used for both.
Take a look at some of the best Samsung watch bands we could find. If you don’t see something you like, use them as a guide to what you should be looking for when searching for a Samsung watch band for larger wrists.
1 LEROBO Samsung Galaxy Watch Band
Looking for a 20mm Samsung watch band? This stainless steel classic link style band from Lerobo is one of the best s3 bands for large wrists. Suitable with all Samsung watches with 20 mm lugs. A great first choice for the best Samsung galaxy wristbands.
The strap is adjustable, will fit wrists up to 8.3 inches, and comes with a link removal kit and instructions so you can make adjustments for a perfect fit. The band comes in many colors, and they are not all dark and bland. They also have a Samsung watch band in pink.
Compatible if you are looking for:
-Samsung galaxy watch 3 bands
-Samsung galaxy watch 3 41mm bands
-Samsung Galaxy Watch 42mm bands
– Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 40mm bands
-Samsung Gear Sport Watch bands and more
2 FanTek Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 Silicone Band
The FanTek S3 silicone watch band is made of high quality and durable rubber, so it is very durable, but comfortable and not harsh on the skin. Also makes it really easy to change your Samsung watch strap with the quick release spring bars
If you like to have a cleek design you can wear with any outfit, but also have something you can use when you are working out without having to swap bands all the time, this is a great choice for you. The watch will fit wrists up 8 inches.
Compatible if you are looking for:
-Band for Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 41mm
-Band for Samsung Galaxy Watch 42mm
-Samsung galaxy watch active band replacement
-Watch band for Gear s2 classic
-Watch band for Samsung Galaxy Watch 42mm SM-R810/SM-R815
3 KOREDA Samsung Gear S2 Bands Sets
The Koreda Milanese Loop may be the best Samsung Galaxy Watch band for large wrists. The band fits wrist sizes up to 10.80 inches, that is a big wrist. The double folding button clasp give you the security to know it won’t just pop open and sits safely on your wrist. You also get two galaxy watch bands in with your purchase.
As well as the classis link band for the galaxy, you also get a mettle mesh band for your Samsung watch. The materials a high quality, waterproof so they wont rust, and suitable for the office and all of your daily activities. There are also a number of color options to suit all tastes.
4 WNIPH Sports Loop Band For Samsung Active 2
Sport Loop are some of the best and most recommended bands for large wrists. The band is made from high grade nylon so extremely durable, and very easy to clean. It will fit wrists up to a size of 8.3 inches. Great choice for a Samsung galaxy watch active band.
Something else we really like about this band is the breathability, making the strap very comfortable to wear for long hours. This is very handy especially on the hotter days when you might get a sore wrist wearing a lesser quality band. The bands is nylon, so it can get a bit moist if you sweat, buy nylon also dries really quickly so we never saw this as a big problem.
5 Dealele Samsung galaxy watch band fish scale
Some people like a specific type of link, and this fish scale galaxy watch band by DEALELE is definitely unique. Made with stainless steel in a fish scale design, it adds a unique look to the accessory that will enhance the overall look of an outfit. It will fit wrists up to 8.2 inches.
The band is actually really lightweight but you can feel the material is durable. A solid clasp will keep the watch safely on your wrist, and the inner part of the strap is polished steel so feels really comfortable to wear. The band comes with tools to add and remove links if needed.
Compatible if you are looking for:
-A band for Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 (45mm)
-A band for a Galaxy Watch 46mm
-Gear S3 Frontier strap
6 Hybrid Leather Silicone Watch Band For Samsung Watch
This is one of the best Replacement for Galaxy Watch 46mm. The 3mm strap is made of leather, with a black silicone, sweat proof lining. You can wear this watch with a suit and keep it classy, and also work out without the discomfort or worrying about damaging the band with sweat.
It is really easy to replace the band for a Samsung watch, no tools are required, just use the two spring loaded pins to add/remove your watch band. A hybrid band for your Samsung watch is really great for those always on the go. This band will fit wrists up to 8.6 inches.
Compatible if you are looking for:
-Replacement for Galaxy Watch 46mm
-Galaxy Watch 3 45mm band
-Gear S3 Frontier band
-S3 Classic Smart Watch band
7 Stretchy Bands For Samsung Watch
You may not like a metal band, nor a leather or rubber band, so if you need a Samsung Watch band for a large wrist, a stretchy Nylon band may be your best option. Made with premium materials, these stretchy Nylon bands have great comfort and breathability. A perfect band for work and working out.
They come in a number of colors, and the price is really good so you can buy a few of them to match them with your outfits. The watch will fit all wrists up to 8.6 inches comfortably, and it is easily adjustable for the smaller wrists too.
Compatible if you are looking for:
-Galaxy Watch 5 Pro 45mm band
-Galaxy Watch 5 40mm/44mm band
-Band for Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 40mm/44mm
-Band for Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 41mm
-Galaxy Watch Active 2 44mm band
-Any Samsung watch with 20mm lugs
8 GEAK Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Band
Looking for a silicone watch band for a Samsung watch, we have a well priced and durable option for you. This Soft Slim Silicone Replacement Band for Samsung Watches has a great design, and is really soft and comfortable on the wrist.
The band comes in many different color options, so you are sure to find something for your own taste. but the pinks Samsung watch band is our favorite. A great choice for everyday use in all environments, as silicone is a very durable material. The watch will fit wrists up to 8.7 inches.
Compatible if you are looking for:
-Samsung Galaxy active 2 watch band 40mm
-Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Band 40mm
-Galaxy Watch 5 Bands
-Replacement Bands for Samsung Watch 4
-Galaxy Watch 3 41mm
Leather Watch Bands For Large Wrist
If you want a watch strap that is more suitable for the professional environment, ort maybe you just prefer to be stylish and match your outfits to your accessories. You want to choose a Leather watch band for a larger wrist. Leather is durable, classy, and very comfortable to wear if you get the right product.
Here are a few good brands that provide watch bans for larger wrists, and you can also request custom lengths and widths from some of these options. A custom watch strap is always going to give you the best fit, as it is designed based on your own personal measurements.
1 StrappedForTime.com
Strapped for time are a website that cater specifically to those with larger wrists. You can find hundreds of options of leather straps for large wrists on this website. Every color, every type of leather, thicker, thinner, any type of leather band you want they will have.
2 Popovleather.com
Popov Leather are one of the worlds leading artisan leather goods producers, and make some of the best leather watch straps in the world. They are really popular for their leather Apple watch bands, make bands for a number of other watches. The best in personalized leather watch bands in our opinion.
3 Techswiss.com
Another brand that has a whole section for xxl watch bands. They have a wide variety of sleek leather watch bands for large wrists. The quality is good and the price point is very reasonable for what you get. If you need a replacement for a dress watch, and you have a larger wrist, give Techswiss a look
4 Nemesiswatch.com
If you like a leather band, but you also want it to be wide and chunky, Nemesis watch is going to be your best bet. They do very wide bands for large wrists, and they extend up to 10.5 inches in length! They also have some tooled leather watch bands that are really cool.
5 Bartonwatchbands.com
Barton make some amazing leather watch bands for large wrists going up to 9inches in length. Our favorites are the Hybrid Pumpkin Orange and the Navy Blue Alligator grain bands. They also make large straps for most of the major smart watches including Samsung, Apple, G Shock, Fossil gen and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average wrist size for men and women?
The average wrist size will depend on factors like age, sex, ethnicity, weight. In general, men tend to have larger wrists than women. The average circumference of an adult male wrist is about 7.6 inches (19.3cm). The average wrist size for an adult woman is 6.5 inches (16.5cm).
How can I measure my wrist size accurately?
To measure the size of your wrist, you will need a measuring tape or a piece of string that you can wrap around your wrist, and here is how to do it:
-Wrap the measuring tape or string around your wrist, just below the wrist bone.
-Make sure the tape/string is not too tight or loose. You should be able to comfortably fit a finger between the tape/string and your wrist.
-If you’re using a string, mark the point where the string overlaps with itself. Then, measure the length of the string from the end to the marked point using a ruler or tape measure.
-Make a note the measurement in inches or cm. This is your wrist size.
Remember though what this will only give you the measurement for your wrist. Different bands will have different styles, and you will also need to take into account the lug sizes and the thickness of the watch case before you make a purchase.
What are the different types of watch bands available for large wrists?
There are a number of watch bands suitable for a big wrist, each with its own features and benefits. Here are some of the more common types:
-Leather watch bands for large wrists are a classic option for watches and can be purchased in a range of styles, colors thicknesses and patterns. Leather bands can be more comfortable if you get the right type, and will mold to the shape of your hand giving you a perfect fit.
-Metal watch bands for large wrists are usually made of stainless steel or titanium and are a durable and long lasting option. You can also add and remove links to adjust the size for the perfect fit.
-Rubber watch bands for big wrists are the better option for those with active lifestyles, or if you get in the water a lot. They are flexible and have a little stretch, waterproof and sweatproof , a very comfortable option for larger wrists.
-Nylon watch bands for thicker wrists are the best lightweight option, are very durable and popular among sports watches. They are also really easy to clean so you don’t have to be as careful with them as say with a leather band.
-NATO watch bands for larger wrists are a type of nylon band that is designed to be worn over the watch case as opposes to connecting to lugs. The bands are easily customizable so a great fit for those with bigger wrists.
Which materials are recommended for watch bands for large wrists?
When you are choosing a band for larger wrists, you want to choose materials that are durable and comfortable. This is largely personal preference as well. Some people are allergic to metal, others to rubber, so you are best to try on different types of materials. Add to this your experiences up until now with watch bands and the tips we have shared, and you should be able to make the best choice for you.
How do I know if a watch band will fit my large wrist?
If you have measured your wrist correctly, know what size your watch face is and also the lug measurements of your watch, then you can’t really make that mistake. Always compare your measurements to the sellers sizing chart and you will do just fine.
Can I adjust the size of a watch band to fit my large wrist?
Depending on the watch type, but in general you can only adjust the size of a band that has detachable links. Other types of bands come in one size, and though you may be able top shorten them, adding length to a watch band would not be so easy and not possible in most cases.
How do I care for my watch band to ensure it lasts a long time?
This again will depend on the type of band. If you have a leather watch band, then you want to try avoid staining it, or letting the leather dry out. You can simply apply some odorless alcohol free hand cream, and this works a charm to keep the leather supple.
Rubber, Nylon and Silicone watchbands are all really easy to clean and care for, you don’t really need to do much but keep them clean. With the rubber though, you can by some products that will help it last longer and stop the rubber from drying out, but with a good quality band it may not be necessary.
Metal watch bands just need to be kept clean with a cloth and some metal polish. Or you can put it in a cup with some baking soda and vinegar, cleaning all the little nooks and crannies you can’t get to.
Can I mix and match watch bands and watches, or should I stick to a particular brand or style?
When you have a larger wrist this may be the only option. You just have to be careful you are choosing all the right measurements or the band may not fit. There are some watches like Fitbit and Apple watches that have a particular connection, but as they are so popular, a lot of good watch band makers make custom straps for these watches.
How do I choose a watch band that complements my personal style?
Choosing a watch band to go with your personal style is a matter of finding one that suits your overall preferences and aesthetic. Here are a few tips to help you choose a band to complement your personal style.
– Consider the watch face: The watch face you pick will influence the type of band that will match up with it. A sportier watch face will look better with a rubber or nylon watch band, whereas a more sleek formal watch face works better with a metal or leather band.
–Consider the color: The color of the band you buy should complement the color of the face you have. Neutral colors like brown, black and gray are pretty versatile options that can work with many styles.
–What is your lifestyle: Your personal style and daily activities play a large part in determining the best watch band for you. If you are an outdoor person, work out a lot then you need a rubber, nylon or silicone type band. If you are more indoors and always at the office, the something more sleek like a leather or metal band is the better option.
– Experiment: Try different types of watch bands. You may find that a particular texture or material you never considered before actually suits your needs pretty well.
In Conclusion
If you have a leather watch band then you want to use cleaning products for leather, and apply some hand cream to the strap from time to time to keep it from drying and cracking. If you have a metal band you will need something for metal, and rubber watch bands are pretty easy to clean with some plain soap and water.
Finding the best watch band for larger wrists can be a difficult task if you don’t know what to look out for. With careful consideration and hopefully with the tips we have given you the task will be made a lot easier.
With these tips, you can choose the perfect strap that combines style and functionality. Remember to accurately measure your wrist, choose the right material and consider style and compatibility to get the best fit.
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