Changing the strap on an Apple Watch

If you want to change the strap on your Apple watch, you will find it quite easy. No tools are required to remove the old strap or to install the new one.  Allowing you to switch back and forth between official watch bands and more affordable Apple Watch band options in seconds. 

We have a picture guide on how to change the strap; we have tried to highlight the most important steps for you. 

✋ Before you swap out that strap, make sure your next one fits your lifestyle.
👉 Browse the Fitstraps Apple Watch strap collection for the best comfort, fit, and value.

Apple watches are easy to change the strap!

We know that even an easy task can be daunting when you are doing it for the first time. You want to apply enough force but don't want to break anything. So this short guide should help you approach the task of changing the strap on your Apple watch with confidence. Some of our replacement straps for the Apple watch do come with a tiny screwdriver - that might throw you a bit, but have no fear, the screwdriver is simply to make it much easier, and to save breaking your nails, when you need to adjust the position of the clasp. 

It is not possible to remove part of the strap to shorten the Apple Watch straps, instead, the stainless steel Apple watch strap is available in two lengths, 38mm and 42mm, and the position of the clasp adjusts the effective length. In order for the clasp to be effective, it needs to be a snug fit; the metal clasp can be quite stiff to release and do up, and the screwdriver makes easy work of it. 

If you have a metal clasp, take a look now. The position of the clasp on the strap is kept in position with a metal lever that snaps into place, The small screwdriver can be easily used to pry it from its snapped in position and also used to pop the lever back into place.

So, in this instance we are changing the Apple Watch strap for a stainless steel strap. For silicone straps, leather watch bands and all other Apple watch straps, they are all done in the same way as the attachments are the same.

💡 Got the SE model? Make sure you pick a strap specifically designed for it;

👉 Check out our Apple Watch SE strap range here.

Step 1: Turn your Apple watch over

Turn your Apple watch so the rear of the watch is facing you. Locate the two little buttons on the edges of the Apple device. These are the buttons which need to be pressed in to release the strap from its place.

Step 2: Press the strap release buttons

Use your nail to depress the small button on the watch, so the strap is released from it's position, and at the same time, slide the strap edge along in it's seating, keep pushing all the way so it slides off the end. 

Step 3 Attach your new strap

Now, get your new watch strap, and you will see which side is the right way round by looking for the little button in the middle of the strap edge. 

Line the strap up with the slot, then gently slide the strap along until you hear and feel it click into place - it's not very loud, but it will click into position, and you won't be able to slide it any further along the Apple watch. 

If you can continue to slide it along, the strap is the wrong way round. Remove, flip it up the other way and slide the strap connector in until it clicks into place.  

Step 4: Repeat for the other side. 

You have now managed to upgrade your Apple watch to a very sassy stainless steel. Perfect for a business meeting or a night on the tiles. 

🔁 Once you’ve mastered the swap, it’s the perfect time to try a new look.
👉 See our full range of Apple Watch straps and freshen up your wrist.