In the most demanding environments—whether underwater, on rugged terrain, or in extreme climates—your gear must perform without compromise. That includes your watch strap. While the watch case and movement get most of the attention, the strap is what ensures your timepiece stays secure, comfortable, and functional on your wrist. When choosing a strap for tactical, outdoor, or high-impact scenarios, the right material makes all the difference.
Why Strap Material Matters
A watch strap in harsh conditions is subject to the same stress as the rest of your equipment. Exposure to moisture, heat, cold, abrasion, and repetitive movement can degrade lower-quality materials quickly. Straps that absorb sweat or water may lead to skin irritation, while those that stretch or fray can compromise security and fit.
Choosing the best strap material is not just a matter of preference—it’s about durability, reliability, and long-term performance.
FKM Rubber: Built for Performance
Marathon’s 3-Piece Rubber Strap Kit is specifically engineered for use in unforgiving environments. Made from FKM rubber, a premium fluoroelastomer material, these straps are designed to resist heat, chemicals, UV exposure, and water. Unlike traditional rubber, FKM doesn’t stiffen in the cold or become tacky in the heat, making it ideal for use in a wide range of temperatures and field conditions.
FKM rubber also provides a comfortable, secure fit. It won’t fray like nylon, nor will it crack, dry out, or absorb moisture like leather. For professionals and enthusiasts alike, it delivers dependable performance without compromising on comfort.
Design That Works in the Field
Marathon’s rubber straps feature a laser-engraved pattern of the Marathon logo along the underside. This detail does more than display branding—it provides anti-slip grip, preventing the strap from shifting or loosening during physical activity. Whether you're underwater, in rain, or dealing with sweat, the grip holds firm.
The 3-piece kit includes straps of varying lengths, allowing for adjustment around wrist size or gear. It's especially useful when wearing a watch over a wetsuit, flight jacket, or cold-weather glove system.
Reinforced Buckles for Security
Each strap in the kit is fitted with a military-grade 316L stainless steel buckle. This material is highly resistant to corrosion and designed to hold up against physical strain, making it ideal for environments where salt water, sweat, and mechanical wear are factors. The buckle design ensures a secure closure while allowing quick removal when needed.
Swiss Craftsmanship Close to the Source
All Marathon rubber straps are manufactured in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, just 2km from Marathon’s watchmaking facility. This proximity allows for consistent quality control and adherence to Marathon’s strict standards. Every strap is built with the same purpose-driven approach as our timepieces, ensuring they meet the needs of military and professional users.
Why Not Nylon or Leather?
While nylon is lightweight and breathable, it can fray over time and doesn't offer the same level of grip or water resistance as FKM rubber. Leather straps, while aesthetically classic, are prone to cracking and stretching when exposed to moisture or rapid temperature changes. For extreme environments, these materials simply don’t match the longevity and performance of FKM rubber.
Find Your Perfect Fit
If you’re operating in environments where reliability is non-negotiable, the Marathon 3-Piece Rubber Strap Kit offers unmatched durability, comfort, and functionality. Its waterproof construction, anti-slip design, and Swiss craftsmanship make it the ideal strap choice for military, tactical, diving, or adventure applications.
Explore the 3-Piece Rubber Strap Kit and upgrade your watch with a strap that’s as capable as the mission ahead.
Leave a comment