All NATO Watch Straps Share This One Issue. Here’s How to Fix It

NATO straps are cool, cheap and rugged. But they’re also something else.

Published December 1, 2024

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Updated December 1, 2024

NATO straps are cool, cheap and bountiful, available in every color imaginable. But they’re also something else: excessively long.

Now, before you go all gung-ho and pull out the scissors, it’s important to appreciate the reason for this quirk: NATO straps, originally made for the British Ministry of Defence, are designed to fit over clothing and gear.

In other words, there’s a legitimate argument that the length is part of what makes them special. So before you read the rest of this article, it’s worth at least trying to tuck the strap’s long end back into the keeper and see if you can live with it.

NATO straps are designed to fit over clothing and gear.

That all said, the width of your wrist and the length of the NATO might conspire to leave you with just the wrong amount of length left over, such that it doesn’t tuck in easily. If so, that’s a reasonable cause for trimming.

Here’s how to pull it off.

1. Mark the desired length

It’s best to do this by putting it on your wrist so you know exactly where you want the strap to end. Make a mark with your Sharpie on the underside of the strap.

2. Secure the strap end

The key ring is going to help you get an evenly rounded shape to the end by slipping it between the ring’s wires which should hold it firmly in place. Some people use two coins to sandwich the strap and secure it with clamps. This part’s all up to you, though: if you want a straight or angled cut, say, it’s still advisable to secure the strap.

3. Cut the excess length

If you’re using the key ring, go ahead and apply some pressure with the thumb and forefinger of your non-dominant hand. With the other hand, use the blade to follow the curve of the ring (or coins) to shave the extra length off. Then go back with the razor and get any spots that look uneven or strands left sticking out.

4. Apply fire

Keep the strap end in the key ring or coin sandwich because this is holding the fibers firmly in place. Lightly singe the ends with a flame.

Most NATO straps are made of nylon, which can be melted, and singeing the ends of the fibers will stop them from fraying. Be careful not to burn too much or you’ll end up with a blackened look (also, be careful of your fingers, for god’s sake, Billy).

Butane-based torch lighters (the kind of lighter with flames that shoot out rather than flicker like a candle) are best.

5. Finish the strap

Finally, push the freshly singed fibers down to help them meld together and create a more even look. You want to do this when it’s still hot so it’s advisable to protect your fingers or use a tool (even the lighter itself).

Your shortened NATO strap is complete.