Choosing the right Fitbit strap size to buy, measuring your wrist

Here’s everything you need to know about Fitbit strap sizes. It’s important to choose the right one.

Size matters

You’ve made the decision to purchase a Fitbit wearable. Good choice. There’s a reason the company’s devices sell so well. They are easy to use, provide accurate data and have a good software ecosystem.

But before you buy you need to decide on a size that will fit you best. A fitness tracker or smartwatch is something you’ll be wearing 24 hours a day. This is why it’s important that it fits comfortably. Your Fitbit wearable will only give you accurate results if you wear it properly.

What Fitbit sizes are available?

The San Francisco outfit sells a range of devices. Different models of Fitbit have multiple sizes. Here’s a quick overview for its most popular wearables.

You need to make sure the band you choose is not too tight. It should fit loosely enough so that it can move back and forth on your wrist.

When exercising, though, you can get better heart rate readings by wearing the band so that it’s secure. You may also want to wear it higher on your wrist, about 2-3 finger widths above your wrist bone. This gives better readings because blood increases further up your arm. Just make sure you don’t wear it too tightly as this will restrict blood flow. After exercise loosen it back to its original position.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

It’s a good idea to give your wrist some breathing time occasionally. Remove the band for an hour or so after extended wear. This, and keeping your tracker clean, will help you avoid skin rashes.

Choosing the correct size

If you want to make sure you choose the correct fit prior to purchasing, Fitbit has provide a handy sizing tool. Here is one for Versa and Charge range, Charge 2/Alta HR/Ionic and Flex 2.

Print out the page that corresponds to your tracker, cut out the sizing band and wrap it around your wrist. That will show you which size is best for you.

If you’re somewhere in-between two sizes, it is better to choose the larger one. Tightening a band that is too large is always possible, but there is not much you can do if the band sits too flush against your wrist.

The other way to decide on the appropriate size is the old fashioned way. Find a tape measure and use it to measure the circumference of your wrist. Or do the same with a piece of string and compare its length against a ruler.

Like this article? Subscribe to our monthly newsletter and never miss out!