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The Best NATO Straps: A Perfect Blend of Style and Durability
Initially made for military requirements, the best NATO straps offer comfort, durability, versatility, and security. Explore all about NATO straps here!
Feb 12, 2024
NATO straps have become an essential accessory for watch enthusiasts, blending functionality, style, and durability in a single design.
Originally designed for military use, these versatile watch straps have evolved into a fashion statement embraced by watch collectors and fashion-conscious individuals alike.
In this article, we will explore the features and benefits of NATO straps, and delve into some of the best options available in the market.
What is NATO Strap?
A NATO strap is a type of watch band characterized by its one-piece design, featuring a continuous loop of fabric that passes through the spring bars of a watch.
The strap is secured by a buckle and a series of metal or fabric loops, allowing for adjustable wear and ensuring that the watch remains on the wrist even if one spring bar fails. No wonder many say the strap is designed with security in mind.
Originally developed for the British military in the 1970s, NATO straps were designed to be robust, easily replaceable, and comfortable. The name “NATO” itself is derived from the NATO Stocking Number (NSN) assigned to this type of strap, making it an official military issue.
The attractive key about NATO straps lies in their functional aesthetics which makes them look tough and rugged. Having a NATO strap for an office look would easily represent an adventurous soul – a free-spirited gentleman.
Along with the popularity increase for NATO straps comes a sheer range of straps available in the market. NATO straps come in a variety of sizes, colors, materials, thickness, and price. You can find them from the most affordable one to the most expensive one.
Read also: How To Change A Watch Strap: A 101 Quick & Easy Guide
Features and Benefits of NATO Straps
There are several reasons why NATO straps are popular among other types of straps. Some of them are listed below:
Durability
NATO straps are built to withstand the harshest conditions, owing to their military origins. The tightly woven nylon fabric is highly durable, and resistant to wear, tear, and exposure to the elements, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities and everyday wear.
Versatility
One of the standout features of NATO straps is their versatility. Available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and materials, they allow wearers to customize their watches to match different outfits and occasions.
Whether you’re going for a casual look or a more formal appearance, there’s a NATO strap to suit every style.
Comfort
The lightweight and breathable nature of NATO straps makes them exceptionally comfortable to wear, even for extended periods. The nylon material doesn’t trap sweat, providing a pleasant wearing experience in various climates.
Security
The NATO strap’s unique design ensures that even if a spring bar were to fail, the watch would remain on the wrist due to the strap’s continuous loop design. This added security is a significant advantage, especially for those involved in active lifestyles or sports.
Easy Maintenance
Cleaning and maintaining a NATO strap is a breeze. Most NATO straps can be machine-washed or simply wiped down with a damp cloth, ensuring that they look fresh and new even after extended use.
Read also: How to Buy a Watch Strap that Fits Your Everyday Needs
Top Picks for the Best NATO Straps
With the wide range of NATO straps on offer, we have compiled a list of NATO straps that you can easily find at the Gnomon Watches store. Let’s dive in!
Hitori Green Woven NATO Strap
The first high-quality NATO strap here is the Hitori Green Woven NATO Strap. It is made of a high-quality woven material for extra durability. This NATO strap is 20mm with 280mm length and is suitable for wrists from approximately 160mm (6 inches) to 250mm (10 inches) in 13 steps.
The integration of a dual-lock mechanism imparts a casual yet practical appearance to this watch strap. It is compatible with both vintage and contemporary timepieces, adding to its versatility.
Price: $35.00 USD
Creme Heavy Duty NATO G10 Military Nylon Strap (PVD)
A creme NATO strap, as in Creme Heavy Duty NATO G10 Military Nylon Strap, is also a popular choice to strap on your favorite timepieces, especially those with creme dials.
Measured 11 inches long, this high-quality NATO strap is suitable for wrists from approximately 160mm (6 inches) to 235mm (9 inches) in 11 steps. The strap also comes in two sizes, 20mm and 22mm.
Price: $14.00 USD
James Bond Woven NATO Strap
Made of the best-woven material sourced from an actual woven manufacturer, this James Bond Woven NATO Strap offers the best and most durable strap. This NATO strap is available in two sizes 20mm and 22mm.
The silky smooth material ensures a highly comfortable experience on your wrist. In contrast to typical woven NATO straps, our hardware is specially crafted to precise dimensions, accommodating the additional folded fabric. This design feature enables easy length adjustment at the buckle end to suit your wrist preference.
Price: $25.00 USD
OG Bond Seatbelt NATO Strap
Looking for a little bit of colorful splash on the strap? This OG Bond Seatbelt NATO Strap could be a good option to start with. This NATO strap is 22mm as well as 20mm, allowing the wearer to find the most suitable one for their wrist. It is 280mm in length which is suitable for wrists from approximately 160mm (6inch) to 250mm (10inch) in 13 steps.
As for the thickness, it comes in 1.5mm and incorporates stitched seams. The edges are woven in a herringbone pattern, and the holes are meticulously sealed using laser technology to achieve a smooth and polished finish without any unwanted roughness.
Price: $25.00 USD
Admiralty Grey Woven NATO Strap
Last but not least is the Admiralty Grey Woven NATO Strap which comes in a nice color of grey, suitable for many timepieces. It is made of the the best woven material to create a strap that is more durable, stronger, and softer.
The thickness is approximately 1mm which would give optimal comfort for the wearer. Moreover, the use of premium materials makes the watch feel smooth on the skin.
Price: $25.00 USD
Final Thought
NATO straps have transcended their military origins to become a versatile and fashionable accessory for watch enthusiasts. Their durability, adaptability, and comfort make them an attractive choice for individuals seeking both style and functionality in their watch bands.
With a plethora of options available in the market, finding the best NATO strap to complement your watch and style is easier than ever. Whether you opt for a classic design or a modern twist, a NATO strap is sure to enhance the overall appeal of your timepiece.
Read also: How to Clean Watch Band: Which Type Do You Have at Home?
