QALO's Step Edge Ring and The Ridge's Ring Set came out on top in our testing.
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YEAH YEAH, married guys are supposed to wear their wedding bands everywhere, but most gold or metal rings scratch easily. Your jewelry can get especially banged up if you like to get your hands dirty, whether you're toiling away at a DIY project, working on a construction site, or lifting heavy at the gym. In those instances, we suggest that active guys swap their metal bands for the best silicone rings for men. They're purpose-built to take a licking, and could protect your hands from ring avulsion. Unlike their metal counterparts, if you mess one of these up, you won't hurt your wallet much at all.
Even better: most of our favorite silicone rings are pretty cheap, so replacing them won't break the bank. That's why active guys and trainers like David Otey, C.S.C.S., always works out with a silicone ring. "I want something that is aesthetic to show my commitment in my marriage, but something I don't have to think twice about damaging in session."
To find the best silicone rings for men, we consulted with Men's Health Advisory Board member Otey, and tested a few of these durable bands ourselves. We looked for a variety options, from classic, understated black rings, to more vibrant bands. Above all: we looked for rings that were comfortable, pliable and lightweight, so they felt like a second skin. "It's essentially part of my hands when I'm working out or living day-to-day life," Otey says.
Read on for our list of editor-approved silicone rings to shop now.
This QALO ring was the first silicone ring we tested, and it was hard to see how another option could beat it. We love how this ring combines a timeless look with superb durability in a range of colors and finishes. We liked the Gunmetal and Forest styles, which we found looked great with a range of wardrobes.
During our testing, we found that the thick silicone band was a little stiff at first, but remained comfortable, even for extended wear. The good news is that it becomes more flexible with time, especially after about two weeks of wearing (or ten workouts, in our experience).
The 9mm width of the QALO ring offers a substantial and proportionate look on most hands. However, some testers with shorter fingers found it a bit overpoweringly wide. Cleaning can be a bit tricky due to the ridges along the top and bottom, but a small nail brush or sponge does the job when any gunk gets trapped.
This silicone ring set from the Ridge is a great choice for guys who value both style and convenience. For $65, you get two silicone rings—one black and one in your chosen color—along with a sturdy hard travel case. While $65 might seem a bit steep, consider that the price per ring is under $33, making it comparable to other top contenders. During our testing, we loved the fit and feel of these rings. The option to switch colors and the provided travel case made the whole package feel luxe and fun to wear.
The modest width of this ring might not be everyone's cup of tea aesthetically, especially if you have long fingers. But, right out of the box, the 6mm width actually proved to be more comfortable and less stiff than the QALO and Groove Life options we tested, which are 8-9mm wide. If you have shorter fingers, you might actually prefer this fit for its look and feel.
Another aspect we appreciate is the lifetime warranty, which allows for two future exchanges of the same ring in the same or different size.
Groove Life's Nomad Burled Walnut Ring is an eye-catcher. In fact, during our tests, this ring garnered the most compliments by far. For $35, you not only get a striking natural print but also a high-quality silicone ring. We loved the engraved breathability grooves that allow moisture to escape and avoid seeping into your ring. It's available in 13 different prints, of which this Burled Walnut and Redwood are our favorites.
The rounded profile of the Nomad makes it easy to wear with gloves or in pockets, and ensures debris doesn't get trapped in ridges. We also love the aesthetic, feel, and practicality of the smooth matte finish, which doesn't pick up lint and hair like some other silicone rings do.
One major observation we noted during our testing is that this ring was the stiffest of the bunch fresh out of the box, despite not being the widest (the QALO ring is wider). However, after just a week of wearing it and working out in it, it became more pliable and felt less noticeable on the finger.
While the price is on the higher side, Groove Life offers an incredible 94-year warranty, translating to just $3 a year for a lifetime purchase.
If you're after a traditional metallic gold 0r silver wedding ring finish, this Enso ring is our top recommendation. Its modest 6.6mm width felt incredibly comfortable for weightlifting, cycling, and rowing workouts during our testing. We also like that the width didn't look too skimpy in proportion to the finger. This ring feels virtually weightless, and was one of the most comfortable we tested, in and out of the gym.
For those who seek a metallic motif to use like a traditional wedding band, this ring is nearly the perfect substitute. We tested the gold color, which looks much more natural than most metallic silicone rings, but doesn't quite imitate a gold metal ring exactly when compared side-by-side. Luckily, Enso's lifetime warranty covers discoloration, along with tears, rips, and breaks, so there's no stress if the color starts to wear off. Although, it's held up strong to weeks of workouts and exposure to water.
This silicone ring features interior ridges that increase airflow and reduce trapped moisture, which helps to keep you and your ring fresh and comfortable all day.
With more than 10 color choices and a ton of extended sizes for bigger guys, we found the value of this ring exceptional. For less than $10, you can own a single ring, and for just $15, you can snag a variety pack of seven different colors. It's as comfortable as higher-end models we tested, making it an appealing choice for those looking for a budget-friendly yet durable option.
Despite being designed to sit as close to the ring finger as possible, this band maintains a relatively thick profile. This mostly didn't bother us during our testing, but it is worth noting that this ring may feel slightly bulkier when working out with compared to slimmer designs. We also found the outer edge of the silicone stickier than higher-end options, which tended to accumulate some lint over time.
Oura ring owners, listen up. If you're serious about getting the most out of your smart ring's health tracking features, you're likely sporting it around the clock. After four months of wearing my Oura ring virtually around the clock (save a few hours every couple of days for charging), it has accumulated its fair share of scratches. Light blemishes don't affect the ring's function, but they do dull its shine and aesthetic appearance.
I wish I knew about this silicone cover, specifically designed for the latest generation of Oura rings, back when I first got the ring. It comes in a few colors and sizes, with two separate designs that slip over Horizon and Heritage smart rings seamlessly. This cover is thinner than a typical silicone ring, but still adds some girth to the Oura ring that we definitely noticed in our testing. I've made a habit of taking my Oura ring off for most gym sessions, but this cover makes a great solution for anyone looking to wear and protect their smart ring during workouts.
If you're in the market for silicone rings, these are the key factors to keep in mind to make an informed purchasing decision:
Durability: A major selling point of silicone rings is their ability to withstand daily wear and tear, but some are more resistant to scratches and damage than others. Look for options that are made with medical-grade silicone, around 2mm thick and 6-8mm wide, and are covered by warranty. Sizing: Ensuring you choose the right size is critical to your comfort when wearing a silicone ring. A snug fit is ideal, so if you're between sizes, size down. Silicone is more pliable than metal, meaning it will slightly stretch to conform to your finger over time. When buying directly from a brand, keep an eye out for any specific sizing recommendations that may be listed.
Comfort: Comfort is a must, especially if you intend to wear your silicone ring when working out. Seek out rings with a soft, pliable design that won't hinder your daily activities or workouts. Most rings require some break-in period of about a week or two to soften up, but if you're worried about the comfort factor, opt for a narrow profile ring like the Ridge ring. Design: Most silicone rings are relatively low-maintenance, even after intense use, but consider the ease of cleaning. Does it have ridges? Rounded edges? A matte finish? Rings with a smooth, matte surface without ridges tend to pick up the least debris and are easiest to keep clean.
Another design features to keep an eye out for is grooves or air ports on the inside of the ring, which promote airflow and breathability. They help reduce moisture and prevent skin irritation, ideal for those who will wear their ring during workouts.
Price: The best silicone rings we tested run anywhere from $10-$45 per ring. While cost is a factor, remember that great silicone rings are generally affordable. Focus on value for money, balancing quality and price.
These rings are a go-to option for those who lead active lifestyles, regularly working with barbells, ropes, or engaging in intense physical activities. The flexibility and comfort of silicone rings ensure an unimpeded grip, making them the ideal choice for workouts or active endeavors.
Moreover, silicone rings find favor among those with jobs that demand frequent use of their hands or machinery, such as construction and woodworking. These rings are not only durable but also comfortable, ensuring long-lasting use without the fear of damaging a costly wedding band. In addition, silicone rings are more affordable than most metal bands.
A well-designed silicone ring, when it fits properly, generally offers comfort and versatility that doesn't impede a workout. Unlike traditional metal rings that can pinch, cut, or restrict movement, silicone rings provide a comfortable and safe option for a range of activities like yoga, running, cycling, rowing, and even contact sports. We asked David Otey, CS.C.S., about his experience wearing a silicone ring during workouts. "It's essentially part of my hand," offering no interference during lifts, grip, or slippage issues.
However, we have to note that anything on your hand might slightly impact grip during near-max lifts, especially for guys with smaller hands or limited grip strength. Thicker and wider rings can limit full hand movement in certain exercises that require more dexterity, like rock climbing.
Exercising with a silicone ring may vary from person to person, particularly if they aren't accustomed to wearing jewelry during physical activities. Keep that in mind and take your silicone ring for a few test run workouts before pushing all-out.
At Men's Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing before making any recommendations. For this story, we spent hours researching and testing the best silicone rings for men by wearing them during our own home and gym workouts. We also interviewed experts including David Otey, CS.C.S., NYC-based strength coach and Men's Health Advisory Board member who specializes in strength and hypertrophy protocols as well as athletic performance.
Our fitness writers and editors are also experts in their own right, using their informed opinions to select products and ensuring that our content is of the highest quality. Our product recommendations are purely editorial, and while we may receive free products to test and review, we only recommend the products we are most impressed by. We never let retailers or public relations contacts dictate our content or product coverage, which is why you can trust us to provide you with reliable and unbiased product recommendations.
For the past several years, Men's Health's Fitness editors and writers have been testing the best silicone rings for men. Experts, including our fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., and fitness and commerce editor Talene Appleton, NASM, tested the best silicone rings from top-rated brands during indoor and outdoor workouts to assess how each held up to their active lifestyles. When evaluating each ring, we looked at factors like durability, comfort, fit, and, of course, aesthetic. We also considered price point, as some silicone rings offer a better overall value than others.
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Talene Appleton is a fitness and food writer and editor, certified personal trainer (NASM-CPT), and former professional dancer based in New York City. Passionate about both exercise and cuisine, she merges her fitness, nutrition and culinary expertise with the goal of motivating others to embrace balanced healthy living. Her work has appeared in Men’s Health, General Surgery News, The Food Institute, The Nessie, and more.
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Automotive O Rings Talene Appleton is a fitness and food writer and editor, certified personal trainer (NASM-CPT), and former professional dancer based in New York City. Passionate about both exercise and cuisine, she merges her fitness, nutrition and culinary expertise with the goal of motivating others to embrace balanced healthy living. Her work has appeared in Men’s Health, General Surgery News, The Food Institute, The Nessie, and more.