Yes, you can change Garmin bands on most models
Most Garmin smartwatches and fitness trackers use removable bands that you can swap out without tools or special equipment. The band attaches to the watch body with spring bars — small metal pins that sit in slots on either side of the watch case. To remove a band, you push the spring bar inward from underneath, slide the band out, and repeat on the other side. Installing a new band is the reverse: line up the holes in the band with the spring bar slots, press down until you hear or feel a click, and do the same on the other side.
Not every Garmin model has swappable bands. Some older or budget models have bands glued or permanently attached to the case. The Garmin Instinct and Instinct 2 series, for example, come with fixed bands. Before you buy a replacement band, check your watch model number in the Garmin support documentation or on the product page to confirm whether the band is removable.
Key Takeaways
- Most Garmin watches use spring bars to hold bands in place, and you can remove and swap them by hand without tools.
- Some Garmin models, including the Instinct and Instinct 2, have permanently attached bands that cannot be changed.
- Replacement bands are sold by Garmin directly and by third-party manufacturers, and prices range from $15 to $80 depending on material and brand.
- Bands come in different widths and connector styles, so you must match your watch model exactly when ordering a replacement.
How to remove a Garmin band step by step
Hold the watch face-up in one hand and look at the underside of the watch case where the band connects. You will see a small metal pin (the spring bar) on each side. Using your other hand, push that pin inward — toward the center of the watch — with your fingernail or the edge of a plastic tool. As you push, the band will loosen.
While holding the spring bar inward, slide the band out of its slot. The band should come free easily once the spring bar is compressed. Repeat this process on the other side of the watch. If the band is stuck, do not force it; instead, make sure you are pushing the spring bar all the way in before you pull the band.
Once both bands are off, you will see the watch case with two empty slots where the spring bars sit. The watch is now ready for a new band. Keep the original band in a safe place if you plan to use it again later.
How to install a new Garmin band
Before you start, confirm that the new band matches your watch model. Garmin bands come in different widths — typically 18 mm, 20 mm, or 22 mm — and the connector holes must align with your watch's spring bar slots. Check the product listing or packaging to verify the fit.
Hold the watch in one hand with the case facing up. Take the new band and line up one end so that the two holes in the band align with the spring bar slots on the watch case. Push the band down gently until the spring bar clicks into place. You should feel or hear a small snap. Repeat on the other side of the watch, making sure both sides are seated firmly.
Once both sides are installed, gently pull on the band to confirm it is find. If either side feels loose or comes out easily, remove it and reinstall it, pushing down harder until you feel the click. A properly installed band should not move or rotate on the case.
Where to buy replacement Garmin bands
Garmin sells official replacement bands through its website and through major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. Official bands typically cost $30 to $80 depending on the material — silicone bands are usually the least expensive, while leather and metal bands cost more. Garmin bands come in multiple colors for most models, so you can match your watch to your style or wardrobe.
Third-party manufacturers also make Garmin-compatible bands at lower prices, often $15 to $40 per band. Brands like Ritche, Fullmosa, and Spigen sell bands on Amazon and their own websites. Third-party bands work with the same spring bar system and fit the same watch models, but the material quality and durability vary by brand. Read customer reviews before you buy a third-party band to see how long it lasts and whether the fit is tight.
If you want to try multiple colors or styles without spending a lot, third-party bands are a good option. If you want a band that matches Garmin's quality standards and comes with a warranty, buy from Garmin directly.
Band materials and what they mean for durability
Silicone bands are the most common and the most affordable. They are water-resistant, straightforward to clean, and comfortable for everyday wear and exercise. Silicone bands typically last two to three years before the material starts to crack or discolor, especially if you wear the watch in the sun or expose it to sweat regularly.
Leather bands look more formal and work well if you wear your Garmin to the office. Leather is less durable than silicone in wet conditions and requires occasional conditioning to prevent cracking. A leather band usually lasts one to two years with regular use.
Metal bands — usually stainless steel — are the most durable and the most expensive. They resist scratches and discoloration better than other materials and can last five years or longer. Metal bands are heavier than silicone and may feel uncomfortable during intense exercise. They are also harder to adjust if the fit is not quite right.
Fabric or nylon bands are lightweight and breathable, making them popular for running and outdoor sports. They are less durable than silicone in wet conditions and can absorb sweat and odor over time. Fabric bands typically last one to two years.
Garmin models with fixed bands you cannot change
The Garmin Instinct and Instinct 2 series have bands that are permanently bonded to the watch case and cannot be removed. If the band on an Instinct watch breaks or wears out, you must replace the entire watch. Garmin does not sell replacement bands for these models.
Some older Garmin fitness trackers, including certain versions of the Vivosmart and Vivofit, also have fixed bands. Check your watch model in the Garmin support section or contact Garmin customer service to confirm whether your specific model has a removable band before you try to force one off.
What to do if a spring bar breaks or gets stuck
If a spring bar breaks inside the watch case, you will not be able to install a new band without professional repair. Contact Garmin support with your watch model number and serial number. Garmin can replace the spring bar, though the repair may cost $50 to $100 depending on the model and whether your watch is still under warranty.
If a band is stuck and will not slide out even after you push the spring bar in, try using a plastic spoon or the edge of a credit card to gently pry the band away from the case while you hold the spring bar inward. Do not use a metal tool, which can scratch the watch case. If the band still will not budge, stop and contact Garmin support rather than risk damaging the case or the spring bar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any tools to change a Garmin band?
No. You can remove and install bands by hand using your fingernail or the edge of a plastic tool to push the spring bar. Some people use a plastic spoon or a credit card edge if they find it easier than using their fingernail. Metal tools can scratch the watch case, so avoid them.
Can I use a band from a different Garmin model on my watch?
Only if the band width matches. A 20 mm band will not fit a watch designed for 18 mm or 22 mm bands. Check your watch model number and the band width before you buy. Even if the width is correct, some connector styles differ between models, so verify compatibility on the product page or with Garmin support.
How often should I replace my Garmin band?
Silicone bands typically last two to three years with regular wear. Leather and fabric bands wear out faster, usually in one to two years. Metal bands last the longest, often five years or more. Replace a band when it cracks, discolors, or no longer fits comfortably.
Are third-party bands as good as official Garmin bands?
Third-party bands fit the same way and work with all compatible Garmin models, but material quality varies by brand. Some third-party bands last as long as Garmin bands; others wear out faster. Read customer reviews to see how long a specific brand lasts before you buy.
What if my Garmin band breaks and I cannot afford a replacement right now?
You can still wear and use your watch even if the band is broken or missing. Some people wrap athletic tape or a cloth band around the watch case temporarily. If you want a permanent solution without spending much, look for third-party silicone bands in the $15 to $25 range on Amazon.