If you have a band from a previous model that you love, it may be compatible with the Series 8. According to Apple, bands for 38mm, 40mm, and 41mm cases work for all three of those sizes; bands for 42mm, 44mm, and 45mm cases work for all three of that group. Keep in mind that the Series 8 comes in 41mm or 45mm. While reusing old bands is always an option, a new Apple Watch could also mean a style refresh. Here are the best Apple Watch Series 8 bands out there, for the price-savvy, quality-seeking, eco-friendly customer. Also: The 5 best Apple Watch models
Compatible sizes: 38mm, 40mm, 41mm, 42mm, 44mm, and 45mmMaterial: Recycled plasticsSelling points: Washable and swim-proofPrice: $36
This protective Apple Watch band is made from woven recycled polyester, meaning recycled single-use plastic like water bottles. The band is washable for infinite washes and it dries quickly. Your swim-proof Series 8 has a soulmate in this band, which happens to be perfect for swimming too. The fabric is silky, flexible, and breathable. It stretches, molds to your wrist, and doesn’t detach easily. The price point on this watch is unbeatable and its other models are worth checking out too. For each band sold, Braxley Bands plants one tree. The band ships from Texas on the day you order it.
Compatible sizes: 38mm, 40mm, 41mm, 42mm, 44mm, and 45mmMaterial: Flaxstic®, which is compostable bioplastic elastomer and flax strawSelling points: Waterproof, flexible, durable Price: $49.95
Six colors to choose from and all of them are compostable: Welcome to the Pela band. The company that made a name for itself with innovative phone cases extends its reach to watch bands too. This strap ships to you in recyclable, plastic-free packaging and biodegrades in a home composting environment or industrial composting facility when you’re done using it. It’s verified for child safety standards and is responsibly made without phthalates, BPA, cadmium, and lead.
Compatible sizes: 38mm, 40mm, 41mm, 42mm, 44mm, and 45mmMaterial: 99% ocean plastic yarnSelling points: Water-resistant, fade-resistant, swim-proofPrice: $21.99
LifeProof donates $1 to one of its nonprofit partners with every purchase.
Compatible sizes: 38mm, 40mm, 41mm, 42mm, 44mm, and 45mmMaterial: Durable soft siliconeSelling points: Antimicrobial, sweatproof, breathablePrice: $26.10
This band has built-in antimicrobial protection, a standout feature. It keeps up with sweaty workouts and constant handwashing with its soft yet durable silicone material. Some reviewers likened the feeling of wearing this band to that of wearing a cloud. It’s breathable to the max, easy to adjust, and buckles in snugly to your wrist with its quality buckle, lug, and clasp.
Compatible sizes: 38mm, 40mm, 41mm, 42mm, 44mm, and 45mmMaterial: High-quality woodSelling points: Hypoallergenic and polishedPrice: $28.99
High-quality wood types, including bamboo, maple, and walnut, combine into this unique watch strap. Each link is polished and perfected to suit sensitive skin, and each band has its own unique wood grain. The strap comes with a pin removal tool so that you can easily adjust the length. There are two color options, dark bamboo (pictured) and light bamboo, and both come with a silver clasp. Here’s a table of use cases for each of our favorite Apple Watch bands:
Quality: Is the watch band breathable and comfortable? Does the Apple Watch strap retain moisture?Price: Is the band for your Apple Watch affordable? We wanted to offer a variety of band options, such as hook and loop fastener and an Apple sport band, but also be mindful of costs. Functionality: Can someone take off this band easily before they dive into the water – or better yet, can they take this band with them? Materials: Apple’s ethos includes environmental sustainability. If a customer bought an Apple Watch, they’re presumably on board with environmentally-friendly initiatives. Does this band material align with sustainability?
Also: Apple Watch 8 review There are four other specifications that align with other models: 38mm, 40mm, 42mm, and 44mm. Knowing the size of your dial is important when purchasing a band because it’ll help you figure out how you want your band to look in relation to the dial.
Bands for 38mm, 40mm, and 41mm cases work for all three of those sizesBands for 42mm, 44mm, and 45mm cases work for all three of those sizes.
The Series 8 comes in 41mm or 45mm.
