Leather vs Suede vs Rubber: Which Watch Strap Should You Choose?

When it comes to upgrading your watch, the strap you choose makes all the difference. A new strap can transform the look and feel of your timepiece, giving it a fresh personality without the need to buy a whole new watch. We specialise in handmade straps crafted from the finest Italian leathers, French Epsom, Horween Chromexcel, Ostrich belly, and premium rubber. But how do you decide between leather, suede, or rubber? Let’s break down the key differences and highlight the  best options from each category to help you choose the right watch strap for your style, occasion, and lifestyle.

Leather Watch Straps – Classic, Timeless, and Versatile

Why Choose Leather:
Leather watch straps are the most classic and versatile choice. They offer a timeless look, age beautifully with a natural patina, and suit everything from business attire to weddings. Leather is durable, comfortable on the wrist, and available in a wide range of finishes to match different styles.

Best Leather Options:

• Italian Wax – Chestnut Brown: This strap is a wedding favourite. Its warm brown tone complements navy, grey, and charcoal suits perfectly. The waxed leather develops a soft sheen and subtle patina over time, making it not only elegant on day one but also more characterful with wear.

• Italian Wax – Summer Tan: Bright and sophisticated, this strap works brilliantly for spring and summer. Its lighter colour adds contrast to darker watch dials and is a superb match for linen and pastel outfits. Ideal for garden parties, destination weddings, and casual elegance.

• Horween Chromexcel – Whisky Brown: Famous for its pull-up effect, Horween Chromexcel is one of the most respected leathers in watch strap making. The whisky brown tone is rich and vibrant, perfect for daily wear. Over time, the leather softens and gains a unique patina, turning your strap into a one-of-a-kind accessory.

Best For: Weddings, formal occasions, everyday elegance, collectors who love patina.

Suede Watch Straps – Soft, Textured, and Contemporary

Why Choose Suede:
Suede straps bring a soft, luxurious feel with a more casual yet refined appearance. They’re perfect for collectors who want something different from standard leather. Suede works especially well for seasonal styles and adds texture to any watch.

Best Suede Options:

• Italian Suede – Light Grey: Understated and versatile, this strap is a minimalist’s dream. Its neutral tone pairs well with almost any watch dial, from black to silver to white. It’s a strap that transitions effortlessly from work to weekend.

• Italian Suede – Midnight Blue: Deep, elegant, and full of character, the midnight blue strap is a fantastic alternative to black leather for formal wear. Its rich tone makes it suitable for evening events and special occasions where sophistication is key.

• Italian Suede – Pastel Blue: Light, airy, and perfect for summer, this strap brings a refreshing look to your watch. Particularly popular for beach weddings and warm-weather styling, it’s ideal for grooms and guests who want a subtle but stylish colour accent.

Best For: Casual luxury, weddings with colour themes, collectors who love textured straps.

Rubber Watch Straps – Sporty, Durable, and Comfortable

Why Choose Rubber:
Rubber straps are designed for active lifestyles. They are water-resistant, flexible, and lightweight—making them the best choice for sports, diving, and outdoor activities. Rubber straps are also low-maintenance, easy to clean, and provide excellent comfort for daily wear.

Best Rubber Options:

• CTS Rubber Strap – Black: A classic for dive watches and sports watches. Its sleek, understated look means it pairs well with virtually any timepiece, while offering unbeatable practicality for swimming, gym sessions, or daily wear.

• CTS Rubber Strap – Moss Green: This strap balances ruggedness with style. The green hue adds personality without overpowering your watch, making it ideal for tool watches like Seiko divers or Tudor Black Bay models. It’s a favourite for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

• CTS Rubber Strap – Miami Blue: Bold, vibrant, and eye-catching, the Miami Blue strap is perfect for summer. It brings a fun, playful element to your watch, making it an excellent choice for holidays, weekends, or simply making a statement with your wristwear.

Best For: Diving watches, sports watches, everyday practicality, collectors who want comfort and durability.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to choosing between leather, suede, or rubber watch straps, it all depends on your lifestyle and occasion.

• For timeless elegance and patina, go with Italian Wax Chestnut Brown, Summer Tan, or Horween Chromexcel Whisky Brown.

• For soft texture and contemporary style, choose Italian Suede in Light Grey, Midnight Blue, or Pastel Blue.

• For sporty durability and practicality, the CTS Rubber straps in Black, Moss Green, or Miami Blue are perfect.

Explore our full collection of leather, suede, and rubber watch straps today and find the perfect match for your watch.