Our Favorite Summer Straps

Windup Watch Shop - July 26, 2026

Swapping out your watch strap does more than just refresh an old aesthetic; it fundamentally transforms the on-wrist experience. With the summer heat in full swing, trading a rigid metal bracelet for an easily adjustable alternative is arguably the smartest upgrade you can make this season. To help you navigate our extensive inventory, we've curated a selection of versatile options from the Windup Watch Shop. Whether you're looking to beat the humidity or just add some flair, remember that variety is the spice of life. If you need tailored advice, the Windup Watch Shop Team is always ready for a consultation, or you can drop by our Brooklyn showroom to see these straps in person and try them on!

SPRING MADE'S 
RIBBED MESA IN VIPER

MMilitary style nylon straps have become an essential in the modern watch enthusiast strap collection. From simple field watches to full blown divers, it’s rare that a nylon strap doesn’t pair well, and in some cases, look even better than a factory option. While there’s a massive variety of options on the market, one of our favorites is the Ribbed Mesa from Spring Made. Unlike traditional nylon straps, Spring Made has substituted the pin style buckle for a pass through, friction lock mechanism. Not only does this design look cleaner, it also means that you can adjust this strap to almost any size on the fly. Gone are the days of being between holes or having to punch extra into your strap, just simply cinch it down or release some webbing if your wrist changes size throughout the day. While the Ribbed Mesa strap is available in classic colors like coyote, black and grey, it’s also available in a bold yellow that’s just perfect for summer.

ADPT MIL STRAP IN THALO BLUE

MIf you want something just a touch more traditional, we’d recommend taking a look at our in-house Mil Strap from ADPT. This design utilizes a clever security-band architecture, meaning that even if a spring bar fails, your watch remains safely on your wrist. It took three years of development to bring this project to life, and the result is currently the only American-made nylon strap of its kind. Whether you are a weekend warrior or a daily desk diver, this strap is a must-have addition to your rotation. If you’re unfamiliar with our Mil Strap, we’d recommend taking a look at the Thalo Blue colorway. It’s the perfect middle ground between a bright sky blue and a rich navy, and it pairs well with a multitude of dial colors.

CROWN & BUCKLE 
MATTE SUPREME OLIVE

MWhile much of the market remains stagnant, the innovators at Crown & Buckle are constantly pushing boundaries, unveiling the remarkable Matte Supreme. This series features a proprietary, non-reflective nylon weave with a heavy texture that mimics the rugged aesthetic of canvas. Despite their tough appearance, these straps are incredibly soft and supple, offering a level of comfort and luxury that stands apart from typical nylon offerings. Every detail is meticulously executed, from the precision ultrasonic holes to the stitched tails that ensure long-term durability. Finished with custom-machined 316L hardware, it's a high-end upgrade that elevates any watch in your collection.

MODEL 2 PREMIUM 
AUBERGINE

MThe Model 2 Premium represents an elevated evolution of our beloved Model 2 Classic. While it retains the same sleek, tapering two-piece architecture, we’ve overhauled the materials to include a luxurious Horween leather exterior paired with a supple Wickett & Craig vegetable-tanned lining. The edges are meticulously finished with multiple layers of coordinating paint, providing a sophisticated look that’s built to last. Hand-tied knots of waxed cotton cord offer an artisanal touch, while the combination of a fixed metal loop and wide leather keeper adds a hint of military-inspired ruggedness. By expertly blending sport and dress influences, the Model 2 Premium achieves a vintage-inspired aesthetic that is both robust and refined. It’s an incredibly versatile choice that feels right at home on everything from a weathered tool watch to a polished vintage timepiece.

STRAP HABIT DEPLOYANT SAILCLOTH WHITE

MThe StrapHabit Deployant Sailcloth offers a sophisticated blend of high-performance materials and a streamlined, tool-watch aesthetic. By pairing a rugged, recycled PET sailcloth exterior with a moisture-resistant synthetic leather lining, this strap is built to endure the elements while maintaining a premium feel. What truly sets it apart is the "no tail" architecture; the excess length is cleverly tucked underneath against the wrist, eliminating the need for external keepers and achieving a clean, uncluttered profile found on high-end luxury timepieces. To ensure a perfect fit for everyone, each kit includes both 70mm and 90mm buckle-side lengths, allowing the integrated dual-trigger stainless steel clasp to sit perfectly centered. Finished with universal quick-release spring bars that accommodate both standard and Seiko-style "fat" lug holes, it’s a versatile, tool-free upgrade that looks just as sharp on a vintage chronograph as it does on a modern professional diver.