OG Nato vs single pass

The problem with single pass is that the metal keepers are still there. 

A real deal NATO is only desirable to me when the watch is too big and heavy, and in the over/under method of wear. It just makes the thing feel more secure and wiggle less. Wearing two layers under the watch is for the birds and I can't believe I used to do that.

IMHO if you don’t like Natos you probably haven’t found the right one yet.

If it’s too bulky try a Phoenix.

I found that a lot on manufacturers tend to use big and bulky hardware and so called seatbelt webbing that’s thicker than a conventional Nato strap. Something less is just more. 
 

The Phoenix is still made like they made them in the 70s. Small hardware, slim but soft webbing  especially the grey one.

yes it tends to fray but this can be easily sorted with a lighter.

Single pass straps are not so common. Any suggestions on where to find good ones?

I like nato. I would try a two piece nylon strap in case the extra layer was too much.

I like single pass better. With my wrist size and shape the traditional nato's buckle is in an uncomfortable spot.

I usually just cut/mod them, using a lighter on the cut end to prevent fraying

I agree, it really does come down to fit. For me the usual issue with finding the right fit is the length of the second layer: it is my personal conclusion that the perfect length of the second layer should be just a little longer than the lug to lug of the watch. If the second layer is significantly longer than the lug to lug of your watch, the whole thing doesn't sit well. Either the stiffer buckle end (where the material is folded into the keeper) is too long and doesn't wrap well around the wrist, or if you try to get the buckle end a good relative length, the keeper of 2nd layer will curve and wrap down for too low on the wrist, causing an imprint.

I have had a 2 piece nato strap where the 2nd layer was just barely longer than the lug to lug of the watch (it came with the watch). That was a very comfortable strap, but I find most manufactureres will err on the side of caution and make the 2nd layer much longer than what would allow for a perfect fit. Once the 2nd layer is removed those fit issues are not a problem

I personally like the metal keepers as I still like to fold the extra material into them for the "nato" look🍻

There's that many out there,and some are thicker than others,and those get the scissor treatment. It's a case of trying a few to find one for your watch,and the great thing with them their inexpensive so you can buy plenty without breaking the bank(I've got dozens of them) and thats part of the fun.

Copy pasta from another recent thread about NATO straps:

Beware Phoenix, their lengths are inconsistent, the length of the under-strap is inconsistent to the point I’ve had to cut them off for being too short, the holes pull, they retain creases and look like you’ve worn them twenty years non-stop after five minutes use…

I LOVE THEM! 🥰

Hope that helps. 😂

I cut my Nato's especially the thick ones. At the end I'm not out here rock climbing or camping to have a super secure nato. 

I think I prefer single pass, but both styles are fine. 

My favourite ones though are micro adjustable straps like the ones from springmade straps or CNS seal straps. Minimal hardware and a clean look without holes.

I prefer MN straps to NATOs, or single pass straps. 

I find the adjustability of the MN is better than any strap with a pin buckle can achieve. 

I second this! 😂👌

I've never even considered those, gonna have to try it out. That "perfect" fit can be elusive with pin buckle for sure, its a crapshoot and can also change depending not just on the strap but on the watch head

I went with Erika's Original MN, they are worth the price. Less expensive MN straps let heavy watch heads flop around, with Erika's the watch heads don't move.

I've lost too many watches to failed spring bars and 2 piece bands.  Never lost a watch after switching to NATO straps.  The double layer bands make me feel better.  Signed, tool watch abuser.  

I’m really Torn because if the watch thickness is small it can look and feel good. but I stopped wearing so many natos after I found the elastic parachute bands. Their so comfortable and makes a perfect fit.

Are MN straps more secure in the water than a double layer NATO with pin and buckle?

I don't mind the extra layer under the watch. I'd definitely like to try a single pass nato one day heard alot of good things about them

I don’t like  the look of a single pass nato but a Tudo-style single pass is great

I agree, MN straps wear best - you can't swap them as fast though...

just to be clear, the second layer does not add any extra security when the watch is on the wrist. The retention of the watch head is purely the main top layer. There is some extra security with the second layer when the watch is off the wrist though, if you were to hold the strap by the buckle, the second layer will prevent the watch from slipping off the strap (if the tolerance at the lug allows)

When on the wrist, the second layer does increase stability of the watch head though, further reducing watch head flop. It almost feels like an integrated band, where the attachment between strap and lug is fixed, allowing for the rest of the strap to articulate more freely

I like the standard NATO for that extra metal keeper on the lower side of the watch case. One of my favorite aesthetic features of the NATO strap.

Despise NATO straps. All versions. 

in terms of aesthetics, it definitely has a more balanced look to it