Leather strap - does it stink? :)

Hi folks

Question for those who have used leather straps extensively on their Garmin watches - do they stink & or become very tattered after extensive use?

I have a F5X with the standard black silicone strap. Thinking of getting a leather strap but am concerned that as my 24/7 strap it will quickly start to smell and get very tattered.

I can't be bothered changing bands so am looking for a 24/7 wear option. I train 6-7 days a week (mainly running and occasionally swimming and cycling) so lots of sweat, rain, water, chlorine.

Real world experiences welcome :)

Many thanks

Top Replies

bglover11 over 7 years ago +1

I have the leather band on order and plan on swapping to the silicone strap when doing activities, it's hard to believe with the ease of changing the QuickFit bands that the 5-10 seconds it takes to change…

All Replies

0 loaruns over 7 years ago

Well. It seems my experience was unusual Maybe my strap is special or maybe I just have anti-bacterial sweat!
:cool:

0 james.lee.allen over 7 years ago

Sweat it's self doesn't come out containing bacteria, not does it inherently smell. Smelly pits and the like are due to bacteria that live in those parts of the body.

If a leather strap worn on wrist the starts to stink then it would more likely be the moisture causing it to go mouldy. I would think that as long as you let it dry out properly after exercise then there is no reason for to start to smell funky.

0 canopenerboy over 7 years ago

to original poster

I hear you. You don't want to change bands. EVen though everyone wants you to do so and tells you it is no big deal! =)

I'm an RN and I agree with the last poster that sweat doesn't contain bacteria -- but skin does, so stuff can and will grow. And if it is a 24/7 wear you are looking for then you won't be taking it off after working out to let it dry.

It sounds like at least a few folks have had a good response from Garmin's leather straps. I would suggest you perhaps take your watch off after working out and give it a quick wipe down with a dry towel to remove excess moisture.

Let us know how it goes!

0 bloom34 over 7 years ago

Better yet you could remove the band with the QuickFit connections and wash the band separately using an anti bacterial solution :)

0 dkatchalov over 7 years ago

Thanks for all the replies folks! Definitely need to consider looks vs. practicality!