Can Leather Watch Straps and Watch Bands get Wet?

Leather Watch Straps by watch straps canada

We all know how leather is known for its toughness and durability, but one thing that can damage the leather’s appearance and durability is soaking it in water. 

So in case you are wondering if it’s safe to use your leather watch band during a shower or a swim. You have come to the right place.

Can You Wear a Leather Watch Strap in the Shower?

The most frequently asked questions we often get are whether or not it’s safe to wear leather watch bands in the shower? Or can you swim with a leather strap?

The shortest answer is, no—it’s not safe to wear your leather watch strap during a shower or a swim.

Water can damage a leather watch strap and causes it to stain and prematurely wash away the protective coating and oils that help keep the leather supple, and causes cracks, breaks, and splits in the leather.

Additionally, the absorbed water in leather can furthermore cause mold or fungus, hence causing more damage to the strap.

Having said that, most leather straps can resist a few water drops here and there and depends on the quality of the leather used for the strap.

Vintage or Distressed style: In the case of vintage or distressed style, you have to be more careful than you would with a well-coated finish strap.

Suede: So it all comes down to the material your band is lined with. For instance, Suede is more prone to be damaged with wetness than smooth leather.

Are there any Products Guaranteed to Protect a Leather Watch Band From Water? 

Yes, there are many water-resistant creams available in the market that you can apply to the surface of the leather watch straps to protect them from water damage.

Are there any Products Guaranteed to Protect a Leather Watch Band From Water?

Yes, there are many water-resistant creams available in the market that you can apply to the surface of the leather watch straps to protect them from water damage.

What do we suggest?

As they say, it’s better to be cautious than being sorry. Hence we suggest you keep your leather watch strap dry at all times. Simply take it off before going into a shower or a swimming pool, or even before performing any rigorous exercises or hand washing.
But if you still think taking off your leather strap watch is too much work, then we suggest you invest in more durable options such as rubber or silicone strap watches or any watch straps that are specifically designed to get wet.

Leather strap watches need great care and love. Only invest in them if you can take good care of them.