Which smartwatch band material is right for you?

Nylon, silicone, FKM, stainless steel, leather — there are more choices than most people expect.

And honestly, I don't think there is one material that deserves to be called the “best smartwatch band material.”

After years of working with smartwatch accessories, I have found that the better question is:

Which material makes the most sense for the way you actually wear your smartwatch?

A Garmin used for trail running does not necessarily need the same band as a Garmin worn to the office. An Apple Watch used for swimming has different requirements from one worn mainly for sleep tracking. A Samsung Galaxy Watch worn every day may need something completely different from a sports watch used for marathon training.

The material you choose affects comfort, breathability, water resistance, durability, cleaning, weight, appearance and even how securely the watch stays on your wrist.

So instead of asking:

“Which smartwatch band material is best?”

I think you should ask:

“What do I actually need my smartwatch band to do?”

In this guide, I'll compare the most common smartwatch band materials — nylon, silicone, FKM, stainless steel and leather — including their advantages, disadvantages, best use cases and the reasons people choose them.

Smartwatch Band Materials at a Glance

Before getting into the details, here's the short version.

Material	Best For	Main Advantages	Main Drawbacks
Nylon	Running, everyday wear, sleep, hiking	Lightweight, breathable, adjustable	Can retain moisture and collect dirt
Silicone	Gym, swimming, high-sweat workouts	Easy to clean, water-friendly, durable	Can feel warm, sticky or less breathable
FKM	Training, outdoor use, premium sports	Durable, refined rubber feel	More expensive and still not very breathable
Stainless Steel	Office, business, formal wear	Premium appearance, durable	Heavier and less suitable for intense workouts
Leather	Business, casual and formal wear	Classic appearance, comfortable	Not ideal for sweat or water

The important thing is that none of these materials wins in every category.

The right material depends on what you do with your watch.

Start With Your Lifestyle, Not the Material

Before choosing a band, think about a normal week.

Do you:

Run several times a week?
Go to the gym?
Swim?
Hike or spend time outdoors?
Sleep with your smartwatch?
Wear your watch all day at work?
Mostly use it for notifications and everyday activities?
Prefer a lightweight watch?
Prefer a traditional watch appearance?
Sweat heavily?
Frequently change your clothing or style?

These questions matter because a smartwatch band has several jobs.

It needs to hold the watch securely against your wrist, remain comfortable for long periods, deal with sweat or water when necessary, and look appropriate for the way you use your watch.

Garmin itself takes a similar approach with its QuickFit ecosystem. The company describes QuickFit bands as interchangeable for different activities and styles, with options including nylon, silicone, leather and metal.

Personally, I think this is one of the smartest ways to think about smartwatch bands.

You don't necessarily need one perfect band. You may need different bands for different parts of your life.

1. Nylon Smartwatch Bands

Lightweight, Adjustable and Comfortable for Long Wear

Nylon has become one of the most interesting materials in the smartwatch-band market, particularly for people who wear their watches for long periods.

Apple's current lineup includes woven nylon and nylon-based designs, while Garmin offers multiple nylon QuickFit options. Apple describes its Sport Loop as a woven nylon design, while Garmin offers nylon options across several QuickFit sizes.

Why People Choose Nylon

Lightweight

This is probably the first advantage many people notice.

A well-designed nylon band can feel much lighter and less rigid than a metal bracelet. If you already have a relatively large sports watch, reducing unnecessary weight can make the watch easier to wear throughout the day.

For runners, hikers and people who sleep with their watch, I think this is a particularly strong advantage.

Highly Adjustable

Many nylon bands use hook-and-loop or similar adjustment systems.

That gives you more freedom to find a comfortable fit instead of being limited to fixed buckle holes.

This matters because a smartwatch should be secure without constantly pressing against your wrist.

Apple, for example, describes its Sport Loop as a soft, lightweight nylon weave with an easily adjustable hook-and-loop fastener.

Breathable

Woven nylon can allow more airflow around the wrist than a completely solid rubber surface.

If you live somewhere hot, exercise regularly or wear your smartwatch overnight, this difference can become noticeable.

Good for All-Day Wear

Nylon sits in an interesting middle ground.

It can look sporty enough for running while still being understated enough for everyday wear.

That makes it particularly attractive to people who don't want to change bands every few hours.

The Disadvantages of Nylon

Nylon is not perfect.

And I think this is something smartwatch-band marketing sometimes fails to explain.

It Can Retain Moisture

A woven material can absorb or hold moisture more easily than a solid rubber band.

If you swim or shower frequently with your watch, this can become annoying.

It Can Collect Dirt

The same woven structure that makes nylon breathable can also allow dirt, dust and sweat residue to collect between the fibers.

If you frequently hike, run outdoors or work in dusty environments, you'll need to clean it regularly.

Some Nylon Edges Can Cause Irritation

“Nylon” does not automatically mean “comfortable.”

The weave, edge finishing, thickness, stitching, elasticity and adjustment system all matter.

A poorly finished nylon edge can be more irritating than a well-designed silicone band.

The Adjustment System Matters

A badly designed keeper, hook-and-loop section or excess strap can create its own comfort problems.

So when comparing nylon bands, don't stop at the material name.

Look at the entire construction.

My Take on Nylon

If someone told me:

“I wear my Garmin all day, run several times a week, sleep with it and want the lightest comfortable band I can get.”

Nylon would be one of my first choices.

But I would not tell that person to use nylon for everything.

If swimming, fast cleaning and water exposure are major priorities, silicone or FKM may make more sense.

That's the important distinction.

Nylon isn't better than silicone. It solves a different problem.

2. Silicone Smartwatch Bands

The Practical All-Rounder

Silicone is probably the easiest smartwatch-band material to understand.

It is flexible, water-friendly, easy to clean and widely available.

That is why it remains such a common material across smartwatch ecosystems.

Garmin currently offers silicone QuickFit bands across several sizes, while Apple's Sport Band uses high-performance fluoroelastomer rather than conventional silicone.

Why People Choose Silicone

Water and Sweat Friendly

If you exercise regularly, swim or spend a lot of time outdoors, silicone is practical.

It doesn't absorb water like woven fabric, and it can be rinsed quickly after a workout.

Easy to Clean

This may sound like a boring advantage.

It isn't.

If you train five days a week, cleaning your band becomes part of ownership.

Silicone can usually be wiped or rinsed without much effort.

Durable

A good silicone band can tolerate frequent movement, sweat and everyday use.

That's one reason it remains such a popular material for sports-oriented watches.

Affordable

Silicone is also relatively inexpensive compared with premium metal or leather.

That makes it easy to own several colors without spending a lot.

The Disadvantages of Silicone

It Can Feel Warm

A solid rubber surface does not breathe like woven fabric.

During hot weather or long workouts, some people may notice more heat and moisture underneath the band.

It Can Feel Sticky

Some softer silicone formulations have a strong grip against the skin.

For some people, that feels secure.

For others, it feels sticky.

Not Everyone Finds It Comfortable

Individual skin and comfort preferences vary.

I would never tell someone that silicone is automatically comfortable for everyone.

The shape, surface finish, ventilation, thickness and fit all make a difference.

It Can Attract Dust and Lint

Some soft or matte silicone finishes can collect small particles, especially when the band is slightly tacky.

My Take on Silicone

If you want:

one practical, affordable, easy-to-clean sports band,

silicone is still one of the safest choices.

It doesn't need to be exciting.

It simply works.

And that is exactly why I think silicone remains a core material in the smartwatch-band market.

3. FKM Smartwatch Bands

A Premium Option for Sports and Heavy Use

FKM is a material I think deserves more attention.

You may also see it described as fluoroelastomer or fluorocarbon rubber.

Apple officially identifies fluoroelastomer in several of its sports-oriented bands, including the Sport Band and Ocean Band.

Garmin also offers products using FKM, including premium hybrid designs.

So FKM is not simply a theoretical material used by accessory manufacturers.

It already exists within major smartwatch ecosystems.

Why People Choose FKM

Durable

FKM is known for strong resistance to heat, chemicals, oils and aging.

For a smartwatch band, that can make it a strong choice for demanding environments.

Good for Sweat and Water

Like silicone, FKM is a solid rubber material, making it practical for sports and water exposure.

More Refined Feel

This is where I think FKM has an advantage.

A well-made FKM band can feel denser and more premium than inexpensive silicone.

Premium Sports Appearance

FKM sits between two worlds.

It has the performance-oriented character of rubber but can look more refined than a basic silicone strap.

For an expensive Garmin or Apple Watch Ultra-style sports watch, I think that makes a lot of sense.

The Disadvantages of FKM

Higher Price

FKM generally costs more than ordinary silicone.

That means it is not necessarily the best choice if price is your primary concern.

Still a Solid Rubber Material

This is important.

Switching from silicone to FKM does not magically make the band breathable.

If airflow is your biggest priority, woven nylon may still be a better option.

Less Fabric-Like Comfort

If you prefer the feeling of textile against your wrist, FKM may not provide the same experience.

“FKM” Does Not Tell You Everything

A product label alone cannot tell you the full quality of a band.

Thickness, formulation, surface finish, connector quality, buckle design and overall construction still matter.

My Take on FKM

If silicone is the practical sports option, I see FKM as the premium sports option.

It makes particular sense for people who want durability and a refined feel without moving to a metal bracelet.

4. Stainless Steel Smartwatch Bands

Best for Appearance and a Traditional Watch Feel

Stainless steel solves a completely different problem.

It isn't primarily about breathability or minimum weight.

It is about:

appearance, structure and a more traditional watch aesthetic.

Apple currently offers stainless steel Milanese Loop and Link Bracelet designs, while Garmin's QuickFit ecosystem also includes metal and titanium options.

Why People Choose Stainless Steel

Premium Appearance

This is the obvious advantage.

A metal bracelet can make a smartwatch look much closer to a traditional wristwatch.

Durable

A well-made stainless steel bracelet can last for years.

Good for Business and Formal Wear

If your smartwatch is part of your professional outfit, metal can look considerably more appropriate than a brightly colored sports band.

Structured Feel

Metal does not stretch like textile or flexible rubber.

That gives the watch a more traditional wristwatch character.

The Disadvantages

Weight

This is probably the biggest disadvantage.

A metal bracelet can add noticeable weight to an already large smartwatch.

That matters when you're running, hiking or sleeping.

Not My First Choice for Intense Exercise

Personally, I wouldn't choose a heavy stainless steel bracelet as my first option for running or HIIT.

It can simply feel unnecessary.

Less Comfortable in Some Conditions

Metal can feel cold in cold weather and warm in hot conditions.

The multiple links can also collect sweat and dirt.

More Complicated Cleaning

A metal bracelet contains many small spaces between links.

That makes cleaning more involved than wiping down a solid rubber band.

My Take on Stainless Steel

I see stainless steel as a style-first material.

If your smartwatch is part of your outfit, metal makes sense.

If your smartwatch is primarily a training tool, I would normally look at nylon, silicone or FKM first.

5. Leather Smartwatch Bands

Best for Style, Not Usually My First Choice for Sports

Leather has one advantage that synthetic materials struggle to reproduce:

character.

A good leather band can make a smartwatch feel much more like a traditional watch.

It works particularly well for:

Office wear
Business clothing
Dinners
Formal occasions
Casual everyday style

Garmin includes premium leather options in its QuickFit ecosystem, while Apple also offers leather and leather-related constructions within its broader band lineup.

Why People Choose Leather

Premium Appearance

Leather immediately gives a smartwatch a more traditional character.

Comfortable Once Broken In

Good leather can become more comfortable and develop a personal character over time.

Excellent for Business Wear

If you want your smartwatch to look less like sports equipment, leather is one of the easiest ways to change its appearance.

Unique Character

Unlike synthetic materials, leather can develop visible changes with use.

Some people see that as part of the appeal.

The Disadvantages

Water Is the Biggest Problem

I would not treat leather like a sports band.

Repeated exposure to sweat, swimming, showering and heavy rain can affect the material depending on the leather and construction.

Requires More Maintenance

Leather generally needs more care than silicone.

Not Ideal for High-Sweat Workouts

If you're going for a hard run in hot weather, I would choose something else.

Quality Varies Significantly

There is a huge difference between different leather grades, coatings, construction and finishing.

The word “leather” alone doesn't tell you everything.

My Take on Leather

Leather isn't trying to compete with silicone.

It's solving a different problem.

If the question is:

“How can I make my smartwatch look more like a traditional watch?”

Leather is a very strong answer.

If the question is:

“What should I wear during a sweaty workout?”

Leather would not be my recommendation.

Which Smartwatch Band Material Is Best for Your Lifestyle?

Instead of starting with the material, start with the activity.

For Running

I would generally start with nylon or FKM.

Nylon is attractive when low weight, breathability and adjustability matter.

FKM is useful if you prefer a smooth rubber feel and want something easy to clean after sweaty workouts.

For Swimming

For frequent swimming and water exposure, I would generally choose silicone or FKM.

They are easier to rinse and dry than woven materials.

This is one situation where I would not automatically recommend nylon simply because it feels comfortable.

For Sleeping

For sleep tracking, lightweight nylon would be one of my first choices.

A heavy metal bracelet can feel unnecessary overnight.

The important thing is not simply softness. The band should also allow you to adjust the watch securely without putting excessive pressure on your wrist.

For Hiking and Outdoor Use

For hiking, camping and outdoor activities, I would look at nylon, FKM or durable silicone.

Nylon is attractive when low weight matters.

FKM and silicone are easier to clean if the watch encounters sweat, rain, mud or dust.

For Office and Business Wear

This is where stainless steel and leather become more interesting.

If your smartwatch is part of your professional outfit, appearance can matter just as much as sports performance.

For Everyday Wear

There is no single winner.

I would choose based on your biggest annoyance.

If you dislike sweat, consider a more breathable material.

If you dislike cleaning, choose silicone or FKM.

If you dislike weight, consider nylon.

If you want a traditional watch appearance, look at stainless steel or leather.

Does Your Smartwatch Brand Change Which Material You Should Choose?

Not necessarily.

Your watch brand helps determine compatibility.

Your lifestyle should determine material.

That's an important distinction.

Apple Watch

Apple's current band ecosystem includes fluoroelastomer sport bands, woven nylon designs, stainless steel, leather-related materials and other constructions. Apple itself describes different bands using different materials for different designs and use cases.

So an Apple Watch user doesn't need to choose one material forever.

A lightweight woven band can make sense for everyday wear, while a fluoroelastomer sport band may make more sense for training or water activities.

Garmin

Garmin is particularly interesting because the company explicitly supports interchangeable QuickFit bands for different activities and styles.

Its current QuickFit ecosystem includes nylon, silicone, leather, metal and titanium options across different sizes.

Garmin's current product pages also show different band materials and compatible models across its ecosystem, reinforcing the importance of checking the exact watch and connection size before buying.

For Garmin users, I would think about the watch and activity together.

A Fenix used for hiking does not necessarily need the same band as a Forerunner used primarily for running or a Venu worn mainly for everyday wellness.

Samsung Galaxy Watch

Samsung Galaxy Watch users face the same basic decision.

If your watch is mostly used for everyday wear, comfort and appearance may matter more.

If you train frequently, sweat resistance, easy cleaning and secure fit become more important.

The brand of the watch doesn't automatically determine the best material.

Your routine does.

Google Pixel Watch

For Pixel Watch users, everyday comfort and appearance can be particularly important when the watch is worn throughout the day rather than only during workouts.

A lightweight textile-style band may suit someone who prioritizes comfort, while a rubber-based band may be more practical for frequent exercise.

Again, the best choice depends on how you use the watch.

Suunto and Other Sports Watches

For Suunto and other performance-oriented watches, I would generally start with the same questions:

What sport do you do? How long do you wear the watch? How much sweat and water does it encounter? How important is weight?

A serious outdoor user may prioritize durability and secure fit.

A daily wearer may care more about comfort and appearance.

The material should follow the use case.

What Are the Most Common Smartwatch Band Materials?

There is an important point I want to make here.

Major smartwatch manufacturers do not publicly provide a reliable global breakdown showing exactly what percentage of smartwatch-band sales comes from nylon, silicone, FKM, metal or leather.

So I would be careful with claims such as:

“Silicone represents 45% of all smartwatch bands sold worldwide.”

Unless the source provides a transparent methodology, numbers like that are difficult to verify.

What we can verify is the product mix offered by major manufacturers.

Garmin currently offers QuickFit bands in nylon, silicone, leather, metal and titanium, while Apple offers a wide range of fluoroelastomer, nylon, stainless steel, leather-related and other constructions.

That tells us something useful.

Silicone/rubber-based materials and nylon or other fabric-based materials are clearly mainstream smartwatch-band materials.

They are not niche alternatives.

Silicone remains particularly practical for sports and water exposure because it is easy to clean and does not absorb water like woven fabric.

Nylon has become an important alternative for people who prioritize lightweight comfort, adjustability and all-day wear.

FKM occupies a more premium position within the rubber category, while stainless steel and leather serve users who place more emphasis on appearance.

So, in my opinion, the market is not moving toward one material replacing everything else.

It is moving toward more specialized bands for different situations.

And Garmin's own QuickFit strategy is a good example: the company encourages users to change bands for different activities and styles.

I think that's a more useful way to understand the market than trying to find one universal winner.

What Are Smartwatch Users Actually Buying?

This is probably the most important part of the entire article.

People don't really buy “nylon.”

They buy what nylon does for them.

Someone chooses nylon because they may be thinking:

“I wear my Garmin all day and want something lighter and easier to adjust.”

Someone chooses silicone because they may be thinking:

“I sweat a lot and want something I can rinse off easily.”

Someone chooses FKM because they may be thinking:

“I want a durable sports band that feels more premium than basic silicone.”

Someone chooses stainless steel because:

“I want my smartwatch to look better with my work clothes.”

Someone chooses leather because:

“I want my smartwatch to look more like a traditional watch.”

That is why I think smartwatch-band marketing should focus less on material specifications alone.

Customers aren't really buying a material.

They're buying:

Comfort
A secure fit
Breathability
Easier cleaning
Water resistance
Durability
Lightweight wear
Better appearance
A different style
Or simply a better experience with the watch they already own

The material is how you deliver that experience.

Material vs. Activity: A Simple Way to Choose

Activity or Need	Material I Would Consider First	Why
Running	Nylon / FKM	Lightweight or durable and easy to clean
Swimming	Silicone / FKM	Easy to rinse and water-friendly
Gym	Silicone / FKM	Handles sweat and is easy to clean
Hiking	Nylon / FKM	Lightweight or durable for outdoor use
Sleeping	Nylon	Lightweight and highly adjustable
Everyday wear	Nylon / Silicone	Comfort and practicality
Office	Stainless Steel / Leather	More traditional appearance
Formal events	Stainless Steel / Leather	Style and premium appearance
Heavy outdoor use	FKM / Silicone	Durable and easy to maintain

Again, these are not rules.

They are starting points.

The “best” choice can change from person to person.

One More Thing: Material Isn't the Only Thing You Should Check

I see people spend five minutes comparing nylon versus silicone and then buy a band without checking whether it actually fits their watch.

I think that's backwards.

Before buying, check these things first.

1. Is It Compatible With Your Watch?

This is especially important with Garmin.

“Garmin band” does not automatically mean it fits every Garmin watch.

Check the exact model and connection system.

Garmin's own product pages list specific compatible devices for different QuickFit bands.

2. Is the Width Correct?

20 mm, 22 mm and 26 mm are not interchangeable.

The correct connection and width matter just as much as the material.

3. Does It Fit Your Wrist?

A band can be technically compatible and still be uncomfortable if the adjustment range isn't right.

Check the recommended wrist size before buying.

4. How Does the Closure Work?

Pin buckle, hook-and-loop, magnetic closure and metal clasp all feel different.

The closure is part of comfort.

Don't judge the band only by the material.

5. How Will It Handle Sweat?

If you train several times a week, this should be one of your first questions.

6. How Easy Is It to Clean?

If you exercise frequently, maintenance matters.

A band that looks great but is difficult to clean may become annoying after a few months.

7. Will You Sleep With It?

If the answer is yes, weight, flexibility, edge finishing and adjustability become much more important.

Should You Own More Than One Smartwatch Band?

Personally?

Yes.

I don't think that's excessive.

Garmin itself essentially supports this approach through QuickFit, allowing users to change bands according to activities and style.

Think about your shoes.

You probably wouldn't wear running shoes to a formal dinner.

You probably wouldn't wear dress shoes for a trail run.

Your smartwatch band can work the same way.

For someone who uses a smartwatch every day, a practical setup could be:

One sports band + one everyday band + one dressier band.

For example:

Training

Silicone or FKM.

Everyday / Sleep

Nylon.

Office / Formal

Stainless steel or leather.

You don't need to own all five materials.

Just choose the ones that match your life.

The Real Answer: Match the Band to the Way You Live

After comparing these materials, I don't think it makes sense to declare one winner.

Nylon is not automatically better than silicone.

FKM is not automatically better than nylon.

Stainless steel is not automatically more premium in every situation.

And leather is certainly not a sports material simply because it looks expensive.

Every material makes a different compromise.

That's what makes choosing a smartwatch band interesting.

For someone running every morning, a lightweight nylon band may be the best decision.

For someone swimming several times a week, silicone or FKM may make much more sense.

For someone wearing a Garmin to the office, a metal or leather band might be the better choice.

And for someone who does all three?

You probably shouldn't be looking for one “perfect” band.

You should be looking for a small collection that matches your life.

Your smartwatch brand tells you what fits. Your lifestyle tells you what material to choose.

That's how I think smartwatch bands should be selected.

Smartwatch Band Material FAQ

What is the best material for a smartwatch band?

There is no single best material. Nylon is a strong choice for lightweight everyday wear and running, silicone is practical for sweat and water, FKM is suited to demanding sports use, while stainless steel and leather are better when appearance is the priority.

Is nylon better than silicone for a smartwatch band?

Not necessarily.

Nylon is generally attractive when breathability, low weight and adjustability matter. Silicone is easier to clean and more practical for frequent water exposure.

The better choice depends on how you wear your watch.

Is FKM better than silicone?

FKM can offer a more premium feel and strong durability, but it is still a solid rubber material.

It does not provide the same fabric-like breathability as nylon.

For many users, the difference comes down to feel, durability and price.

Which smartwatch band material is best for running?

Nylon and FKM are both strong options.

Nylon is attractive when low weight and adjustability are priorities.

FKM is useful for runners who prefer a smooth, durable and easy-to-clean material.

Which smartwatch band material is best for swimming?

Silicone or FKM are generally more practical for swimming because they do not absorb water like woven materials and are easy to rinse after use.

Which smartwatch band material is best for sleeping?

A lightweight, adjustable nylon band is often a good choice for sleep because it can reduce the feeling of weight on the wrist and allow precise adjustment.

What is the most durable smartwatch band material?

Durability depends on the material, construction and how the band is used.

FKM, silicone and stainless steel can all be highly durable, but they have different strengths.

FKM is particularly attractive for demanding sports use, while stainless steel is better suited to long-term everyday and formal wear.

What material is best for Garmin watches?

It depends on the Garmin model and activity.

Nylon is a strong option for running, hiking and all-day wear, while silicone or FKM can make more sense for swimming and high-sweat workouts.

Garmin's QuickFit ecosystem supports multiple materials for different activities and styles.

What material is best for Apple Watch?

For Apple Watch, the best material depends on use.

Woven materials can work well for lightweight everyday wear, while fluoroelastomer-based sport bands are practical for exercise and water exposure.

Apple's current band lineup demonstrates that the company supports multiple materials rather than one material for every situation.

Are nylon smartwatch bands breathable?

Nylon can be more breathable than solid rubber because woven construction can allow more airflow around the wrist.

However, breathability depends on the weave, construction and fit.

Nylon can also retain moisture more readily than a solid rubber band.

Are silicone smartwatch bands good for everyday wear?

Yes.

Silicone is practical for everyday use because it is flexible, durable and easy to clean.

However, people who live in hot climates or wear their smartwatch continuously may prefer the lighter and more breathable feel of nylon.

What Smartwatch Band Material Is Your Favorite?

After trying and comparing different materials, I've found that the “best” smartwatch band usually comes down to personal preference and daily routine.

Maybe you prefer the lightweight feel of nylon.

Maybe you trust silicone for every workout.

Maybe FKM feels like the right balance between durability and comfort.

Or perhaps you simply prefer the look of stainless steel or leather.

What smartwatch band material is your favorite — and why?

Leave your answer in the comments.

I'd genuinely like to hear what works best for you, especially if you've tried more than one material.

Let's compare real-world experiences and help each other find better bands for different watches, sports and everyday routines.

Sources & Further Reading

The information in this article combines manufacturer specifications, publicly available product information and practical interpretation. Where a statement represents personal judgment rather than a manufacturer specification, it is presented as an opinion rather than a universal fact.

Garmin

Garmin QuickFit Watch Bands
Garmin explains that QuickFit bands can be changed for different activities and styles and offers options including nylon, silicone, leather and metal.

Garmin QuickFit 22 ComfortFit Nylon
Garmin's current product information demonstrates its nylon band options and model-specific compatibility.

Garmin QuickFit 26
Garmin provides multiple material choices including silicone, nylon, leather and metal/titanium within the QuickFit ecosystem.

Garmin Silicone Bands
Garmin's current product pages show silicone bands for compatible Garmin models, including current Fenix and Instinct products.

Apple

Apple Watch Bands
Apple's current store includes sport bands using high-performance fluoroelastomer and stainless-steel designs such as the Milanese Loop and Link Bracelet.

Apple Support — Wearing Your Apple Watch
Apple documents the materials used in different bands, including fluoroelastomer, nylon, polyester, stainless steel, leather and other constructions.

Apple Trail Loop / Sport Loop
Apple describes its Trail Loop and Sport Loop designs using woven materials including nylon and highlights lightweight construction, adjustability and breathability.

A Note About Smartwatch Band Market Share

One final point is worth making.

There is currently no sufficiently reliable public global dataset from the major smartwatch manufacturers that allows us to state an exact worldwide sales percentage for nylon, silicone, FKM, stainless steel or leather smartwatch bands.

For that reason, this article does not present an invented market-share percentage.

Instead, the conclusion that nylon and rubber-based materials such as silicone and FKM are mainstream is based on their continued presence across major smartwatch ecosystems and the variety of materials offered by manufacturers such as Garmin and Apple.

I think that is a more honest way to discuss the market.

The important trend isn't that one material is replacing everything else.

It is that smartwatch users are increasingly choosing bands according to how they use their watch.

And that's probably the most useful way to choose one yourself.