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How to Choose a Watch Strap: Leather, Silicone, NATO & Milanese

Leather, silicone, NATO or Milanese? A simple guide to choosing the right watch strap for your style, sizing and budget.

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Watchmaker

Updated June 2026

How to Choose a Watch Strap: Leather, Silicone, NATO & Milanese

The fastest way to give your watch a new look is a fresh strap. But leather, silicone, NATO or Milanese — which one is right for you? Here is a simple guide.

First: find your size

Measure the lug width (the gap where the strap meets the case) — usually 18, 20 or 22 mm. Buy the strap that matches. A quick-release strap has a tiny lever on the spring bar, so you can swap it by hand in seconds, no tools needed.

Leather — classic and dressy

Warm, timeless and comfortable. Best for the office, dress watches and everyday wear. See the Quick-Release Leather Strap.

Silicone — sporty and sweat-proof

Soft, waterproof and easy to clean. Perfect for workouts, summer and dive-style watches. See the Silicone Sport Strap.

NATO — casual and tough

Woven nylon, lightweight and washable, with a relaxed look. Great for everyday and outdoor wear. See the NATO Nylon Strap.

Milanese — sleek and adjustable

A stainless-steel mesh with a magnetic clasp that fits any wrist. Dressy and modern. See the Milanese Mesh Band.

How many should you own?

Two or three straps let you match your watch to any outfit — dressy, sporty, casual. Browse all watch straps, or read how to change a strap in 2 minutes.

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