dbrand was one of the inaugural partners when Google launched the Made for Google programme in 2017, and the Pulse Band is built through it. That means the band is made to Google’s CAD specifications and skin-safety requirements so dbrand’s own reputation aside, you can feel confident it’s up to scratch. A watch band is new territory for dbrand, which is better known for skins, cases, and screen protectors.
Google had already opened the Fitbit Air up to outside designers in June, releasing 2D CAD drawings and design guidelines for anyone to make their own bands. The tracker’s sensor sits in a removable pebble that snaps into the band, but until now, anyone after something other than Google’s own four Fitbit Air bands has been left with unbranded silicone options from online marketplaces.
The Pulse Band is a matte black band made from medical-grade silicone, and weighs 14.8g. Micro-channels on the inside pull sweat away from the skin during workouts, and the clasp is a low-profile design with dual tuck slots that keeps the tail flat. It only comes in black but comes in two sizes, matching Google’s Active Band, and a full ladder of adjustment slots for fine tuning.
The Pulse Band will set you back $34.95 from both the Google Store and dbrand’s website, the same price Google sells its Active Band at. The Fitbit Air itself launched in May at $99.99 and ships with a textile Performance Loop band in the box.
