With summer heat driving everyone outdoors, swapping your Apple Watch band for something flexible, comfortable, and waterproof is practically a public service. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 remains a top-tier smartwatch with its rugged design, large display, and ample battery life, but the right strap is key to comfort, style, and versatility. The Ultra 3 shares dimensions with the original Ultra and comes with one of three premium Apple bands tailored to specific activities. Apple also offers a metal loop option for an additional $100. Beyond Apple's offerings, plenty of third-party bands exist for workouts, swimming, work, or formal wear.

After testing several options and consulting ZDNET reviews and staff recommendations, the best overall band is Apple's own Trail Loop strap. Despite testing many bands, the Trail Loop wins for supreme comfort, customizable fit, lightweight design, and price. It's also included with your Apple Watch Ultra 3 purchase. The Trail Loop is available in small/medium (130-180mm) and medium/large (145-220mm) sizes, with colors including Black/Charcoal and Green/Neon. It's made of nylon weave with titanium ends, is waterproof, and compatible with Ultra, Ultra 2, and Ultra 3. However, it's only available in three basic colors and costs $99. If you don't like fabric bands with Velcro, look elsewhere.

For those wanting an elegant metal band that works 24/7, Nomad's Stratos hybrid band combines Grade 4 titanium with colorful FKM links. At $179, it's far less expensive than most titanium Apple Watch bands. It's waterproof, fits 130-200mm wrists, and comes in two metal link colors and three FKM interior colors. The magnetic clasp is quick but may not withstand intense workouts, and you must use the included tool to adjust links.

Nomad's Sport Band offers a more affordable alternative to Apple's Sport Band, with nine colors and 100% waterproof FKM material. It's lightweight and ventilated, but the pin-and-tuck closure can be finicky for frequent on-and-off use. Limited Edition colors sell out quickly, so act fast.