Withings · Waterproof Smartphone Cases
Withings Smartwatch Withings Scanwatch Wristband Withings ScanWatch 38mm Black
No coating described, and no PFAS statement from the brand.
The product information we reviewed describes rubber/elastomer wristband, with no water-repellent coating named. Water resistance on products like this usually comes from the material and its seals rather than a surface treatment. The brand has published no PFAS statement for it.
We flunk more products than we pass. This one earned its grade. How we grade
Material
Rubber/elastomer wristband
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
What’s concerning
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement from the brand about PFAS in this product.
Colorants and dyes in elastomer
Black rubber wristbands can contain carbon black or synthetic dyes; no test data published. Risk of leaching is low under normal skin contact but cannot be ruled out without material specification from the manufacturer.
Rubber accelerators and vulcanization residues
Manufacturing elastomers uses accelerators (e.g., thiazoles, thiurams) and sulfur compounds. Trace residues may remain on the surface; washing before first use reduces exposure.
Bacterial growth and biofilm
Any wristband worn continuously creates a warm, moist microenvironment; regular cleaning is essential to prevent skin irritation or infection. No product-specific incidents, but this is a general class hazard for all wearable bands.
Polymer degradation and microparticle shedding
Elastomers degrade under UV, sweat, and thermal stress; prolonged wear may generate microparticles. No evidence this band sheds faster than competitors, but lifecycle disposal is a minor concern.
Contact dermatitis from unknown allergens
Individuals with latex sensitivity or fragrance sensitivity may react to elastomer components or residual manufacturing oils. Rare but documented in wearable accessories; patch test if prone to contact reactions.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
This is a replacement elastomer wristband for a smartwatch, made from rubber or synthetic elastomer (likely silicone or synthetic rubber blend). Elastomer wristbands are chosen for comfort, water resistance, and durability against daily wear. Unlike metal or coated surfaces, elastomers present lower risk of leaching toxic metals or breakdown coatings, though the polymer chemistry and any colorants or accelerators used in manufacturing matter.
The brand's record and disclosure
Withings is a consumer health-electronics company owned by Nokia; they maintain a low public profile on material safety disclosures but have not faced documented recalls or safety controversies related to wristband toxicity. The company provides no published PFAS statement for this wristband, though the material class (rubber) does not inherently require PFAS for water resistance. No third-party certifications (e.g., Oeko-Tex, FDA rubber standards) are on record for this specific product.
How it compares in its category
Smartwatch wristbands are typically low-hazard accessories; rubber and silicone bands are not materials linked to PFAS compared to metal or coated ceramics. This Withings band sits in the mainstream segment with no known quality control issues or material surprises. Competitors (Apple, Samsung, Garmin) use comparable elastomers with similar disclosure gaps, making this product unremarkable in safety profile for the category.
If you buy it
Clean the wristband monthly with mild soap and water to prevent bacterial growth and residue buildup in the contact grooves. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, oils, and solvents, which can degrade elastomers over time. Replace if the band becomes sticky, discolored, or loses elasticity, as these signs indicate polymer breakdown. Store in a cool, dry place when not in use.
What we don’t know
- Basis
- Model estimate, 45% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Withings has made none
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
More waterproof smartphone cases grades
How we score, every product runs through the same public 0-100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.