Google's new Metal Mesh Bands give the Fitbit Air a classy new look

Google has finally announced the Fitbit Edge, and there’s plenty to be excited about. The new fitness tracker comes with a larger OLED display, built-in GPS, a replaceable battery, and up to seven days of battery life. It’s essentially Google’s answer for anyone who wants something more capable than the screenless Fitbit Air but doesn’t necessarily need a full-fledged Pixel Watch. However, while the Edge understandably gets most of the attention today, Google hasn’t forgotten the Fitbit Air. In fact, it gives the screenless tracker a touch of elegance.

Fitness trackers are great for tracking your daily activity, but let’s face it: their sporty designs don’t always go with every outfit. You probably wouldn’t think twice about wearing one to the gym or on your morning walk, but what about a wedding, a dinner date, or a formal event? That’s where Google’s latest accessories come in, making the Fitbit Air look a little more sophisticated without changing what it does best.

Google has introduced two new stainless steel Metal Mesh Bands for the Fitbit Air, available in Champagne Gold and Polished Silver. Both cost $69.99, and based on the official images, they look attractive. The best part is how they make the Fitbit Air resemble a classy bracelet. At first glance, you might not even realize a fitness tracker is tucked into the design, which is great for anyone who wants to track their activity without sporting the usual fitness-band look.

Of the two, the Champagne Gold version is particularly eye-catching. It has a warm, slightly muted gold finish that looks elegant without being too flamboyant. The finely woven metal mesh adds a premium touch, and the matching clasp completes the look. The Polished Silver version, by contrast, is a little more understated. Its clean metallic finish pairs well with everything from a formal shirt or blazer to something as simple as a black T-shirt.

Both bands also have a few interesting design details. Instead of the chunky links common to traditional metal watch bracelets, Google opted for a tightly woven mesh pattern that looks sleek and lightweight. Even the clasp blends nicely with the rest of the band, giving it a more seamless look.

Of course, the question remains whether these bands are worth $69.99. That’s quite a bit to spend on an accessory, especially when it doesn’t add any new functionality to the tracker. And while the metal mesh looks lovely in Google’s renders, it’ll be interesting to see how comfortable it feels worn all day.

Still, these bands are a nice addition to the Fitbit Air’s accessory lineup. After all, fitness trackers don’t necessarily have to look sporty all the time. Sometimes, you just want something that tracks your activity while looking good with whatever you’re wearing. And that’s exactly what Google’s new metal bands seem to offer.