Suunto 8 vs 9 Silicone Strap - Are They Really Different or Basically the Same?
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I’m looking to buy a Suunto Athletic 9 silicone strap because I lost the original one that came with my watch. While searching for replacements, I noticed that straps for the Suunto 8 seem very similar, and in some cases even cheaper and easier to find.
So now I’m wondering:
Is there any real difference between the Suunto 8 and Suunto 9 silicone straps?
Do they fit the same way, or are there subtle differences in size, comfort, or durability?
For those who have used both, did you notice anything important (material feel, flexibility, quality, etc.)?I’d really appreciate hearing from anyone who has owned or compared both straps before I buy a new one.
Thanks in advance!
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@andersan they are pretty similar. 8 came with Suunto Race 2 and 9 came with Vertical 2.
The design is different obviously.
Plus I found that the 9 is a tad more stretchy. -
@andersan I prefer the 8. Even though the 9 is bit stretchy-er due to design I feel like the silicone is a tad more firm and the 9 is softer. I also like the diagonal shapes on the 8 more than the horizontal on the 9.
- Size: it is same
- Durability… I believe should be same, I have no visible damage to none of my straps from the past (Ambit 2 series aside).
- Comfort: I prefer the 8 - it feels softer.
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@andersan I was using a white 5 (with Suunto written on it in black) which started quite firm but softened with use, however it went from a lovely crisp white colour to more of a creamy chewing gum colour over a few months of use.
I swapped it out for an 8 in orange, the colour has remained exactly as it was when new & it is sooo comfortable I wouldn’t hesitate recommending it or buying another, it’s a fantastic strap for sure
I’ve got no experience with the 9 though so can’t offer a direct comparison for you.
