With summer just around the corner, it may be time to consider replacing your watch band. Whether you are currently sporting a leather, exotic, or alligator watch band, you should consider the benefits of changing your strap during the hot summer months!
Rubber straps have many benefits, but most importantly, they're Waterproof! If you are heading out to the pool, the beach, or just washing your car, a waterproof rubber watch strap is a far better choice for these activities than a leather watch strap…and there are several reasons why. Here’s a quick list:
Comfort
Leather watch bands usually have a soft calf leather backing that sits softly on your wrist for all day comfort. However, most watch bands are not lined with waterproof leather. As a result, the calfskin lining will absorb and retain moisture. Moisture is typically bad for leather and can shorten a watch strap's lifespan. Additionally, the wet leather lining can rub against your wrist for hours and this may lead to skin irritation. In contrast, rubber watch straps do not retain moisture and liquids will slide right off!
Care
Leather watch bands may be damaged by frequent exposure to water and/or other liquids. When leather is exposed to water, it is also exposed to the elements and/or chemicals in that water (think chlorine, salt, and other additives that can react with leather). As a result of this exposure, the leather may dry out, discolor, or shrink. Unlike leather, rubber is designed to withstand exposure to saltwater, chlorine, and tap water. This means a rubber watch band will not be damaged when worn at the beach or in a swimming pool!
Style
Finally, style should always be considered when selecting a watch band. Panatime stocks a variety of high quality rubber watch bands in a variety of fun summer colors (ex: red, white, blue, yellow). So pick up a few rubber straps that you can mix and match to compliment your summer shorts, boat shoes, and - perhaps the most important summer accessory - your favorite dive watch!
Staff Picks
Here are some of our favorite rubber watch bands.