Why is My Apple Watch Band Loose?

Have you ever experienced having an Apple Watch band that feels loose? Or a watch band having a loose fit where it connects to the watch? If so, you must be wondering what to do. After all, your Apple Watch band should be a snug fit.
Before you send your watch band for repair or immediately replace it with a new one, there are things you have to check first. Did you install the Apple Watch band the right way? Did you get the right size for your wrist? Did you pick the right band that is compatible with your Apple Watch?
When you're purchasing a watch band, you have to make sure the band corresponds to your Apple Watch case size. You can use a band that's designed for Apple Watch (1st generation), Apple Watch Series 1,2 and 3 with Apple Watch Series 4. That is, as long as the sizes are compatible.
Keep in mind that bands for 38mm and 40mm cases are compatible with each other. Bands for 42mm and 44mm cases, on the other hand, are compatible with each other.
What to Consider When Buying an Apple Watch Band
If you want to get the best experience, you should buy a watch band that fits your wrist. That is because the back of your Apple Watch needs skin contact for certain features. Such as Wrist Detect, the Taptic Engine, and the electrical and optical heart sensors.
Apple has a variety of watch bands that come in different styles, sizes, colors, and others. As such, there are things you should take into consideration when shopping for watch bands.
- Determine your wrist size. An ideal watch band should have the right fit. It should not be too tight and not too loose. It also should have room for your skin to breathe. This will ensure that you have the best experience when using your Apple Watch.
- Taking the measurement of the circumference of your wrist. Do you want to achieve the best possible length of your Apple Watch band? Then, you need top take the measurement of the circumference of your wrist. The male wrist measures 15 to 19 cm while the female wrist measures 14 to 18 cm.
To measure your wrist, you can use a meter of seamstress, a string or a tape and put it on a ruler. Wrap your wrist loosely. Once you get the measurement, round it to half a centimeter above.
- Choosing your Apple Watch band. Now that you have your measurement, its time to choose the Apple Watch band you want. What color do you think looks good on you? What kind of band are you comfortable using?
Are you using your Apple Watch while working out? Then, a sports band is the best for you. If you're planning to use your Apple Watch in formal events, a leather band will look good on you. You should choose the band that you think is comfortable for you to use. Your band should have the style that suits you as well as is perfect for all occasions.
What is the Correct Procedure to Change Your Apple Watch Band?
Another reason as to why your Apple Watch band is loose: you might not be using the correct procedure to change your watch band. Here are the steps on how you should change your band:
- First, place your Apple Watch face down over a clean surface. It can be a lint-free, microfiber cloth or a soft, padded mat.
- If you have a Link Bracelet, you press the quick release button on a link to separate the band into two pieces.
- Next, hold down the band release button. Then, slide the band across to remove it.
- If the band doesn't slide out, you press the release button again. Make sure that you hold it down.
- Then, make sure that the text on the band is facing you. After that, slide the new band in until you feel and hear a click.
If you have a Solo Loop or Braided Solo Loop, you can simply pull from the bottom of the band. Stretch it over your wrist when you put it on and take it off. If the band you have is a Milanese Loop, you only need to slide the magnetic closure through the band connector or lug. According to Apple, you should never force the watch band into the slot. If you don't feel or hear a click, slide the band to the left, then to the right.
If the band is installed properly, you will find that it won't freely slide until you hold down the band release button. However, if the band still doesn't lock, you should center the band and push it into place. Then, carefully wiggle the band up and down. Remember, you should not wear your Apple Watch if the band is sliding.
What's in the Apple Watch Bands?
Apple does a great deal of care and research in choosing materials for all of its devices. Apart from ensuring that all materials adhere to existing regulations, Apple developed its own specification for Apple Watch.
The following are the Apple Watch band materials that come into contact with your skin:
- Sport Band: Fluoroelastomer with stainless steel, ceramic, titanium, or 18-karat gold
- Apple Watch Nike Sport Loop: Woven nylon with reflective threads (aluminum-coated glass beads on PET yarn)
- Milanese Loop and Leather Loop: Stainless steel
- Apple Watch Nike Sport Band: Fluoroelastomer with stainless steel
- Modern Buckle and Classic Buckle: Leather with stainless steel or 18-karat gold
- Leather Loop and Leather Link: Leather with stainless steel
- Woven Nylon: Nylon with stainless steel
- Sport Loop: Woven nylon
- Solo Loop: Silicone
- Braided Solo Loop: Polyester yarn with stainless steel
Keep in mind that keeping your Apple Watch band clean and dry maximizes comfort. It also prevents long-term damage to the watch. This is important especially after workouts or exposure to liquids that can cause skin irritations.