Google’s new Metal Mesh Fitbit Air band is more versatile than you think

A metal mesh band might not be right for every watch or wearable, but I can’t say I don’t love using it on the Fitbit Air.

The Fitbit Air has suffered from a lack of band options since launch, and it hasn’t improved very much. The Pokémon Sleep band, while a cool collectible, is still a variation of the Performance Loop strap. The Stephen Curry band is a cool choice, but it suffers from the same lack of elasticity that’s sort of expected from a fabric band.

Google’s new Metal Mesh band, though, is a nice little departure from the existing options. It mounts to the Fitbit Air the same way, with a molded cutout for the small tracker to tuck into. One end of the mesh strap is secured to the plastic Firbit Air case, and a metal loop attaches to the other side. Just like the Performance Loop band, the Metal Mesh strap is secured through that loop and doubles over to secure.

I generally look for a couple of things with mesh bands: a fabric-like lay and a solid clasp. The clasp was a little stiff out of the box, and it took a bit of extra effort to loosen and adjust, but it was painless after the first go. The buckle slides up and down the weave of metal links so you can get the perfect fit. Once secured, putting the strap on is quick. I’d almost go so far as to say it’s easier than strapping down the Performance Loop band.

The mesh quality is better than I had expected out of the box. If it falls and conforms to something like fabric, that’s generally a good indicator that it’s secure and made well. A bad mesh band will bunch up or put up some resistance to bending. The Fitbit Air Metal Mesh band doesn’t do that.

It comes in two colors: Champagne Gold and Polished Silver. The Champagne version comes in a bundle, but both colors can be bought separately.

I’ve been wearing the Polished Silver, and it’s so easy to pair with whatever I’m wearing. I haven’t really removed it from my Fitbit Air since putting it on. I love a good fabric band for the versatility, but this has been so comfortable, even during workouts, that I’ve simply never found a reason to take it off. It might not be everyone’s preferred style choice, but it can be worn with almost everything.

Now, a $69.99 price tag might be a deterrent for some. And that goes double for what is a sub-$100 fitness tracker. At the very least, I think this is the best Fitbit Air band Google sells for its screenless Fitbit wearable.

• But the Metal Mesh band for the Fitbit Air.