At least my cool Retrofied M.A.S.K. watch face still works.
When the Solo Band for Apple Watch was introduced back in September of last year, their press release was gushing over the new Solo Loop:
"...all-new band styles offer customers innovative options that provide a tailored and comfortable fit without traditional clasps or buckles. In an industry first, the ultralight Solo Loop introduces a continuous and stretchable band design....a special UV treatment process used on the soft silicone of the Solo Loop creates a smooth, silky finish."
You'll notice that, nowhere in that statement, does Apple say "durable." As yours truly (and several others judging by Apple's own help forum) are finding out the hard way.
"Wear and Tear"
Even with no more than regular use (occasionally taking the Apple Watch off to charge it and then put it back on) my silicon Solo Band developed a small tear last week. The morning after I noticed it, when I went to put on my watch, it snapped completely. I bought it in January of this year.
I was disappointed but was initially forgiving. This is a new product line and there are obviously kinks in the materials that need to be worked out. Apple would stand by the band. After all, for $49, consumers definitely expect more than five months of use (or less—some forum posts mention theirs failing as quickly as three months after purchase).
So I made an appointment at my local Apple Store and went in, both pieces of the band in my pocket.
After a frustrating encounter at check-in (it seems that Apple Support never actually made the appointment) the technician took one glance at the band and told me "We don't cover wear and tear."
I was taken aback. "But it tore and then snapped. I've only had it for five months."
Unaffected, he said "Why didn't you bring it in when it tore?"
"I was asleep about five minutes after I noticed the tear and it broke the next morning. Should I have contacted Apple Support in my sleep?"
Not that that would have mattered, because the second tech I spoke to (after Mr. Wear and Tear got annoyed and handed me off) told me that Apple won't cover tears in silicone bands either. If the lug that attaches to the Watch was broken, maybe they could do something, he let me know. But tears, no matter how small, weren't covered. The only option I had was buying a replacement for $40.
A $9 discount for a band that didn't even last half a year still sounded like a bad deal, so I didn't take him up on it.
Walking out of the Apple Store I was floored by the complete lack of support for the new Solo Band. And also a little shocked at how poor quality control has fallen at the company if less than six months is considered a normal life span for a band that's exposed to the elements and stretched back and forth daily. Especially since even the smallest of tears quickly turn into band-destroying rips, I expected durability to be one of the key components of the Solo Band.
But again, looking at that press release, they mention "soft." They mention "smooth and silky." They never say "durable."
My story is not the same as everyone’s. There are several forum threads that mention being able to replace their band without a problem. And still others that had similar experiences to my own. Frustratingly, it seemed to depend highly on the representative they connected with and if the band was part of an Apple Watch sale or just a band purchase on its own (mine was just for the strap).
What To Buy Instead?
Until Apple addresses the durability issue for their silicon Solo Bands, I'll be staying away ("fool me twice" as they say). So what will I be using to keep my Apple Watch on my wrist instead?
I'm so glad you asked.
Apple Pride Edition Braided Solo Loop
OK, yes. I know. I just spent 500 words complaining about the Solo Band. But the braided version of the band is a different story. Made from stretchy silicone threads, the Braided Solo Band won't completely snap whenever there's a defect. It might fray or even tear a bit but it won't completely fly apart. Plus, you can only get this awesome Pride Edition band from Apple. The braided silicone yarn is soft on your wrist and super comfortable. Whether you want to show your pride or just that you support the LGBTQ+ community, it's a stylish alternative.
Nomad Titanium Apple Watch Band
You want a watch band that won't tear? How about one made from Grade 2 titanium (meaning it's light and more resistant to corrosion than stainless steel) with a "diamond-like" carbon coating that will keep it looking new. The magnetic clasp makes it easy to take on and off and the coating will resist scratches. You can even wear it in the water (though Nomad recommends rinsing it off after you take a dip in the ocean).
Casetify Italian Leather Watch Band
Looking for something a little fancier? Casetify has this Italian leather watch band for about $400 less than the Hermès bands on Apple's site. These have the double-wrap of the more expensive brands and feature high quality leather...but they have the advantage of costing less than the watch itself.
JIELIELE Solo Loop
If you really can't live without a silicone Solo Loop, then I recommend getting this band that's clearly inspired by the official Apple product. I'm usually not a fan of off-brand imitation products. But the key difference here is that Apple is selling an $50 product and won't stand by it. This Solo Loop is $8. If it breaks, you buy another and don't think twice. Even if I’d had to replace mine every month since January, I still would have been ahead.
