Even earlier than Apple introduced the Apple Watch Series 9, there have been rumors that the corporate needed to interchange its leather equipment with one thing else. I used to be a bit skeptical about this since I’ve at all times been a fan of Apple Watch leather bands. In September, Apple introduced the brand new FineWoven equipment. Now, I’ve lastly determined to strive the FineWoven Apple Watch band. Is it better than the leather band?

Apple’s FineWoven equipment

By now, most individuals who learn 9to5Mac are most likely conversant in FineWoven. Apple describes the fabric as a “luxurious and durable microtwill.” At least on the subject of iPhone circumstances, FineWoven hasn’t gone down properly with some shoppers. The materials appears too fragile for a telephone case that’s at all times involved with sweaty arms and soiled surfaces.

In truth, this isn’t my first time attempting out a FineWoven accent. I purchased a blue FineWoven case for my iPhone 15 Pro Max. It was lovely, and the fabric was so smooth and felt really nice to the touch. However, two weeks later, my case already had some grime stains and scratches that appeared irreversible – so I returned the case to Apple.

According to a number of stories, many different folks have determined to return their FineWoven circumstances, and a few retail shops should not even restocking the product. But I nonetheless needed to know what it was like to make use of a FineWoven band for the Apple Watch, so I purchased the “Taupe” mannequin, which is a darkish brown colour.

My ideas on the FineWoven Apple Watch band

I’ve to confess, this band seems good and chic at first look. The brown colour goes very properly with my gold stainless-steel Apple Watch. The design is actually the identical because the Leather Link bands – I’ve a darkish purple one, and I adore it. The FineWoven band can also be very comfy to put on, and I really feel I might put on it on extra events than the leather band.

But as I’ve been utilizing the FineWoven band for the previous couple of days, I now have some considerations about it.

Leather undoubtedly appears a extra premium materials than FineWoven. Apple selecting to discontinue leather merchandise wasn’t an issue, however FineWoven equipment shouldn’t value the identical because the outdated leather ones. It’s onerous to argue in favor of a material watch band that prices $99.

As for sturdiness, there’s not a lot I can say in the mean time, as I’ve solely been carrying this band for a number of days. I’m afraid it might simply develop into smudged in a number of weeks, however I hope not. Some folks have stated that FineWoven bands are a bit extra sturdy than iPhone circumstances. I’d like to imagine that.

It’s not definitely worth the value

There’s one factor that really annoys me about this band. It typically out of the blue loosens after I transfer my arm, one thing that by no means occurred with the leather model. I believed there might be one thing improper with the unit I purchased, however I discovered related complaints on the internet (right here, right here, and right here).

I’m nonetheless undecided if the magnets used within the FineWoven model are weaker or if the fabric is extra slippery, however the truth is that I continuously need to readjust the band on my wrist, particularly after I’m carrying a heavy coat. Again, this isn’t the type of factor I used to be anticipating from a $99 watch band.

If you could have $99 to spare, I’d say purchase a unique Apple Watch band. I’d advocate the braided ones or, even better, discover the outdated leather bands at a reduction in another retailer. You may also spend the cash on one thing else. The FineWoven band seems good, but it surely’s not definitely worth the value.

What are your ideas on the FineWoven Apple Watch band? Have you tried it? What do you assume up to now? Let me know within the feedback under.