It’s kind of like a mini-personality quiz... but with straps.
The removable clasp is finickyThe band itself is made of “high-performance elastomer,” but it’s basically like any other silicone band. It’s just bumpier and stretchier because of the hollow tube design. As the name implies, water slides right off the Ocean Band. It also held up fine in mineral water when I visited some geothermal hot springs. A salty residue did show up, but it was easy to clean. But as with any type of rubbery band, it’s not breathable.
This band is a no-brainer for divers and swimmers. If you’re only buying this band for the style, there are a few things you should know.Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge The Ocean Band is adjustable, but it’s the finickiest of the three. It has a detachable, pill-shaped clasp that you stick through one of the holes, similar to the Alpine Loop. It’s not hard to use, but it’s fiddly and not something I’d want to adjust often. Another issue is that, unlike the other two bands, this only comes in one size. I’ve got smaller wrists, so I had to stick the clasp pretty close to the top lug. I was left with a tiny strap flap that didn’t look great.
If you buy more than one Ultra strap from Apple, you’re going to have to shell out $99 per strap. That’s too rich for my tastes and why I’m not keen on recommending these bands to non-Ultra owners. While you can wear them with any 44mm or 45mm Apple Watch, I don’t see the point if you’re not into the sports they represent. If I didn’t have an Ultra, the only one I’d be tempted by is the Trail Loop.
That said, I’m not going to stop anyone from buying multiple Ultra straps. Smartwatch bands are a way to make yourself comfortable and express yourself at the same time. Do what makes you happy. All I’m saying is the strap I’ve gotten the most compliments for cost me $10 on Amazon.