Wearable trackers and smartwatches have come a long way from their bulky, unattractive beginnings.
Tech companies have finally caught on to the fact that most people want something they can wear for a workout, work, and happy hour. The result: wearables that don't compromise on style, and still deliver in terms of capability.
Some of the most recent, including Misfit Ray and Ringly's bracelet, are beautiful showcases of subtle yet sleek ways to get the information you need on your wrist, instead of a smartphone screen.
It doesn't matter if you want a wearable you don't need to charge, a wearable with a screen (or without) to show your daily stats, or one that will look nice enough to wear to a wedding. There are now options for everyone.
Click through for the fashion-forward and functional wearables on our radar now. Some updates to your wish list may be in order.
Misfit is known for its sleek, understated wearables and its latest, Misfit Ray, is one of the best yet. The water-resistant bracelet has interchangeable leather and sport bands, and measures steps, calories burned, distance, sleep, and more. Plus, you'll get vibrating notifications (no conspicuous, lit-up screen) to let you know about calls and texts. But Ray's most convenient feature? You don't need to charge it — the bracelet has a battery that lasts six months before it needs replacing.
Misfit Ray, starting at $100, available on Misfit.com.
Photo: Courtesy Misfit.
When Ringly launched its gorgeous high-tech rings in 2014, they were an instant favorite in the fashion world. And this spring, the company launched its first line of smart bracelets. They are every bit as beautiful, and come with a variety of semi-precious gemstones. An embedded LED light and four vibration settings let you stay in touch in a slightly more low-key way.
Ringly Rendezvous Bracelet, $195, available on Ringly.com.
Photo: Courtesy Ringly.
Fitbit 's Alta is the popular fitness brand's take on stylish tech. In addition to boasting a longer battery life of up to five days, Alta keeps you on track with sleep measurements, text and call notifications, and, of course, the activity tracking that the original Fitbit is known for. The stainless-steel metal band is a fashionable upgrade, if you've got an extra Benjamin lying around.
Fitbit Alta, $130 ($100 for Metal Bracelet), available on Fitbit.com.
Photo: Courtesy Fitbit.
If you're in the market for a classic-looking smartwatch that you don't need to charge, the Withings Activité Pop is your best bet. You won't get notifications on the watch, but the eight-month replaceable battery means you don't need to worry about forgetting to plug it in at night. The watch doesn't track as much as some of its competitors, but will keep you up-to-date on steps, runs, swims, and sleep. For $20 more, the Activité Steel is a gorgeous stainless-steel option.
Withings Activité Pop, $150, available on Fab.com.
Photo: Courtesy Fab.com.
Fossil has entered the wearable world with its new Q Activity Trackers. While some look like more traditional smartwatches, the Q Dreamer is a discreet way to get notifications — everything from Facebook updates to texts — on your wrist. You can customize the info that comes through using its iOS and Android apps, which will also give you your step counts.
Fossil Q Dreamer Sand Leather Activity Tracker, $95, available on Fossil.com.
Photo: Courtesy Fossil.
At $100, Jawbone's UP2 is one of the more affordable tracker options. The gold finish is even prettier in person, and the simplicity makes it look more like a bracelet than a "gadget." But the tech within is still up to the task, with sleep and activity tracking, as well as the Smart Coach to help you achieve your goals, whatever they may be.
Jawbone UP2, $100, available on Jawbone.com.
Photo: Courtesy Jawbone.
Happy one-year anniversary, Apple Watch ! Apple recently released a slew of new band colors and styles, such as woven nylon. The leather loop band is one of our favorites, as are the traditional sport bands that you can pop on when you're working up a sweat.
Apple Watch, ($149 for 42mm White Leather Loop band), available on Apple.com.
Photo: Courtesy Apple.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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