You wrap your phone in a protective cover, so why not your smartwatch? Sure, your Apple Watch is a tough bit of kit, but it's not as tough as a concrete floor, the keys and coins knocking around at the bottom of your gym bag, or all manner of things you're likely to bump it on during its life, like the sharp corners of walls as you make turns in hallways.
With so much cash invested in your new smartwatch, then, we're not going to judge if you want to boost its hardy ways. Luckily, there are plenty of Apple Watch case options out there that will beef up your wearable's ruggedness.
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With so many add-ons to choose from, the question quickly transforms from 'should I get an Apple Watch case?' to 'which one?'.
You'll want something that makes your watch tougher, without totally ruining its sleek, curvaceous aesthetic. Fortunately for you, we've picked a crop of the best cases to protect your Apple Watch that won't make your smartwatch look like a total dog's dinner.
X-Doria Defense Edge 42mm
This machined aluminium case from X-Doria is to go on top of your machined aluminium watch because, after all, what is metal without more metal on top of it?
It's actually one of the more sleek, refined Apple Watch cases out there, and, once the case is all roughed up, it's easy enough to pick it off so that you've still got a nice, pristine Apple Watch to sell on second hand the minute the new Series arrives. And while we've highlighted the 42mm option here, also be aware that this case comes in a 38mm version, too, so it matters not which model you have on your wrist.
Supcase UB Pro Rugged Protection
For those with a need to protect against more than mere scuffs and scratches, this Supcase offering will keep your Watch safe no matter what. Like a number of smartphone cases, it features a dual-layer design, with a polycarbonate hard shell wrapped around a flexible, cushioning TPU inner.
The best bit? There are loads of colours to choose from, great for matching it to your watch face or own personal style.
, supcase.com | Amazon
Catalyst Rescue Ranger
Not yet upgraded past the original Apple Watch or the Series 1? Well, then you're going to want to make sure your device is waterproof. That's what this IP-68 certified case is for.
The rough, tough, overside Rescue Ranger is a case and moulded strap in one and is sturdy enough to withstand the biggest of drops. It also makes your phone look like a cool Thunderbirds accessory, and who wouldn't be excited by that? It's not the cheapest case out there, granted, but it's also cheaper than the cost of upgrading to a later edition just for waterproofing.
, catalystlifestyle.com | Amazon
Spigen Thin Fit Case
The Spigen Thin Fit case offers good protection in a slim package. The case hugs the original Watch design tightly, giving you something that isn't too large or bulky and doesn't detract from the original design too much. It's slim and lightweight and easy to pop off or on, too.
You'll get four different colours to choose from as well: black, silver, gold and white, so you'll get to cover up your Apple Watch with the same colour if you need.
, spigen.com | Amazon
TheSkinDudes Apple Watch Skins
Protecting your Apple Watch doesn't have to involve wrapping it in dull, lifeless rubber or plastic - these vibrant sticker skins will keep it scratch-free while adding some eye-catching patterns in the process.
There are dozens of designs to choose from ranging from flowers to flames. These vinyl skins from TheSkinDudes are hardwearing with the air-release material helping prevent those pesky air-bubbles ruining your sleek look.
, etsy.com
Luvvitt Clarity
Want to keep your Apple Watch looking just the way it did when you first opened the box? The super-clear Luvvitt Clarity case might be the protective cover for you.
This transparent jacket is made of soft, flexible material to absorb the shocks and protect the brushed steel edging of your device from getting scratched and chipped as you slump to the tarmac at the end of your street, forgetting that buying a smartwatch alone isn't going to make you fit. As a bonus, it comes with screen protector bundled in, great for preventing those eye-catching scratches.
, luvvitt.com | Amazon
ActionProof Bumper
An Indiegogo crowdfunding success story, the ActionProof Bumper is a different take on a rugged Apple Watch case. The sell is that it gives your Apple Watch super powers. The truth is that it protects it with a nicely designed rubber casing that leaves enough holes here and there such that it doesn't mess with what Ive and the team have come up with.
You can still get your fingers on the Digital Crown, the microphone isn't covered up and ActionProof has ensured that the optical heart rate sensor still fits flush against your skin. Noble considerations.
Ultimate Shield screen protector
If you want to keep things seriously simple, then this is the obvious screen protector for you. It's a bit of a shame to have a layer of invisible plastic between you and that precision-engineered and gloriously over-designed touchscreen with its palate of interaction techniques but, ok, we get it.
It'll stop you accidentally driving a canyon across its face and you'll probably never really notice it, and nor will anyone else. There are seemingly billions of brands to choose from. Ultimate Shield will do you just fine.
£4.99, ultimateshield.co.uk
TwelveSouth Action Sleeve
Wareable
The Apple Watch is a great fitness accessory. Sometimes though, you don't want it strapped to your wrist while exercising. For those sweat-dodging, wrist-freeing moments, you need TwelveSouth's Action Sleeve.
Like a running band for your phone, it lets you attach your watch to your upper arm while keeping its screen free for progress checking, activity pausing and music fiddling.
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Want more tat for your Apple Watch that you don't really need? Check out our pick of the best Apple Watch accessories.
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