There’s a good reason NATO straps are popular – they carry with them a functional aesthetic that makes the wearer seem tough and rugged. For many, slapping one on their wrist is the closest they’ll come to an adventure.More info:Wristbuddys.com

In the past, the range of options available to NATO wearers was quite small. You either had to go with the cheap, scratchy $5 dollar NATO straps from your local department store or you could spend some money on a leather lined OEM option.

Today, however, there is a veritable smorgasbord of NATO straps on the market. You can get them in a variety of colors and sizes, with different thicknesses, weaves and hardware finishes. It’s an almost overwhelming choice for someone looking to add a new strap to their collection.

The Phenomenato Strap

A company known for their extensive selection of Hirsch NATOs, this particular offering from Crown and Buckle is a good example of the type of strap that can make a big difference in the way your watch looks. While they don’t have any of the premium dense weaves or customized hardware offered by Hirsch, this particular NATO does a pretty good job of covering all of the bases in terms of look, comfort and feel. It also has a unique regimental pattern, making it stand out from the crowd. It’s a bit more expensive than your average NATO, but it’s well worth the extra cost if you’re after something a little more special.