Leave precious jewelry at home and use these comfy, breathable silicone wedding rings when exercising instead.
We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process. Rubberrings
While your wedding ring might be a visual symbol of your "'til death do us part" vows, there are times when you might want to leave precious jewelry at home. A silicone ring is affordable, breathable, durable and scratch-resistant and can step in as a convenient replacement when you’re lifting weights at the gym, traveling or even just cleaning the house, so you won’t have to worry about banging up your ring. Below you’ll find the best silicone rings according to fitness experts and enthusiasts, featuring sizes and styles suitable for both men and women.
The fitness pros and product analysts at the Good Housekeeping Institute test the best accessories for working out, from top-rated dumbbell sets to phone holders, earbuds, running shoes and more. We put dozens of silicone rings to the test by exercising in them and wearing them in the real world throughout our daily routines. We reviewed each product for various factors like price, stretch and resilience, style and color options and fit. Lastly, we asked our consumer testers to share feedback on their experience wearing silicone rings, including whether or not they fit properly and were comfortable to wear during activity.
Receiving top scores and glowing reviews from our testers, Qalo's women's classic ring has a simple silhouette available in a myriad of colors and different finishes. Testers reported that Qalo's semi-thick silicone bands were comfortable to wear on an extended basis, making them an ideal choice for those who want to use a silicone ring outside the gym as well. Plus, the ring's medium profile and smooth finish make it easy to stack with other jewelry.
Hands-on evaluations revealed that Qalo's classic silicone ring designs didn't have the most grip compared to other options in this guide. But its sleek matte finish makes it easier to put on and remove than most — and it doesn't trap sweat or moisture. "I love how chic they look without the normal shiny silicone look," one tester said. "These are perfect for travel!" GH Institute Nutrition and Fitness Lab Director Stefani Sassos also points out that Qalo has a whole line of silicone jewelry, including cute bracelets, earrings and more to complete the look.
This super-thin silicone ring is the perfect pick for fans of dainty jewelry. Made for smaller hands, sizing starts at 3.5 and includes half sizes to help you find the best fit. We appreciate that the rings are available in a variety of colors and their slim design makes them easily stackable so you can wear multiple on the same finger.
One online reviewer says, "These rings are great for hiking, playing sports, working out and any other physical activity where you don’t want to lose your nice wedding ring or risk getting it damaged or dirty. They’re so cute and comfy, I forget I have them on!" It is worth noting that some online reviewers warn that over time the colors may fade a bit and the rings can stretch out.
With a unisex design and shiny finish options that mimic traditional gold and silver wedding rings, Enso's classic ring earned top marks in tests for its snug, comfortable fit in the gym. Testers noted the Enso ring felt weightless during comprehensive workouts, so we love that this option seamlessly integrates into weightlifting routines and swimming sessions. Testers also indicated that these silicone rings fit true to their traditional ring size.
We love that Enso offers a lifetime warranty on its rings, including ones that are customized and engraved. It covers any discoloration caused by friction or heavy use, as well as tears, rips or breaks if they occur.
Not only does this silicone ring offer a no-pinch fit, it's also available in five different colorways and two different widths (6mm and 8mm) and each ring comes with an additional plain black silicone ring as well as a case. "My husband really enjoys the lightweight, yet durable feel that it provides," one reviewer said. "The carrying case is handy also for when we travel. We can place both our rings in it."
The company offers a 99-day risk-free trial (which covers any ring size swaps that need to be made) and two replacements free of charge if anything happens to your ring, including if you lose the band or your weight changes and you need a different size. One reviewer noted that he used the brand's free ring sizer which helped him pick the correct size. However, some reviews did mention having to exchange sizes.
Online reviewers rave about this silicone ring for its durability, comfort and flexibility, and the wider 8-millimeter design is the perfect stand-in for a wedding band. It comes in a single blue colorway. “These rings are great," said one consumer tester. "They have a nice look and feel and a very reasonable price.”
They’re also a good option for working professionals who cannot wear metal or anyone seeking a more comfortable alternative. “My husband works with his hands a lot for work, so these are perfect and give him peace of mind that they will stretch and/or break before his finger does if it were to get caught on something,” said one online reviewer.
Groove Life's Aspire ring is made from an elastomer blend with a thin profile that's extremely close to the likeness of a traditional wedding band. It's available in a range of smaller sizes that may be best suited for women. In Lab tests, it earned top marks for its lightweight comfort during extended wear. It features a unique interior ridge pattern that provides continuous air circulation throughout the day, making it super breathable.
While accumulated dirt may be more noticeable on some of the light-colored designs, cleaning the ring is straightforward. They can even be tossed into the dishwasher. Testers shared that Groove Life's rings seamlessly transitioned from the gym to the office to more casual social settings. "I'm impressed by how realistic some of the bands look when compared to a metal ring," one tester said. "You'd never be able to tell the difference from afar!" For more muted color options, check out the brand's similarly sized Solid Thin ring,
Thin and elegant, this budget-friendly option can be stacked thanks to its 3.3-millimeter thickness. The collection incorporates bands cast in unique shapes and patterns as well as distinct raised textures. For those who wear more delicate wedding bands and find thicker rings stifling or uncomfortable, Qalo's low-profile silicone rings can be worn alone for maximized comfort.
Finishes range from shimmering metallic to polished matte and can be mixed and matched. Our experts noted that some of the geometric band designs — including rounded, braided bands — may be more prone to slipping and movement along the finger, especially during exercise.
ThunderFit's classic men's rings are made with an interior ridge design that aims to increase airflow and reduce trapped moisture, making them a go-to for fitness enthusiasts. "As someone with an active lifestyle, this ring has proven itself to be a five-star solution for comfort, durability and style," one online reviewer said.
While the brand offers unisex options, we like ThunderFit's men's collection for anyone with larger hands. The bands come in extended ring sizes up to 16, as well as some half sizes, for a customized fit, and there are metallic finishes for those who wish to swap their wedding bands while working out or traveling.
The fitness experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute regularly test workout equipment and accessories ranging from yoga mats and fitness trackers to workout leggings and supportive gym tops. We vetted each of the silicone rings featured above for comfort, durability and performance and considered available finishes, textures and price points for consumers. We have reviewed more than a dozen best-selling silicone rings by tapping a panel of testers to provide real-world feedback on each ring design.
Most shoppers intend to use silicone rings during fitness routines, so testers were asked to evaluate the rings' grip, extended comfort, breathability and durability in the gym during weightlifting sessions. Tests were also conducted in everyday scenarios where functionality was key. We evaluated feedback from more than 10 real-world testers to help make these selections.
✔️ Size: While silicone and fine jewelry ring sizes are indeed the same, metal by nature is different from the stretchy, adaptable material that is used for silicone rings. Most manufacturers share that silicone rings stretch over time to provide a custom fit to the wearer's chosen finger, meaning, at first, a silicone ring may feel tight or restrictive for some. Most silicone rings also do not come in half sizes; and while some brands offer sizing resources to ensure you find a good fit before making a purchase, brands often advise customers to size up or down based on the specific ring's molding. It's crucial to check for these instructions before making your purchase.
✔️ Design: Many of the products featured in this guide are designed with interior band ridges and tracks that aim to reduce the amount of moisture trapped between your finger and the silicone ring. Solid silicone bands often cause more sweating than those with special designs that aim to reduce the contact surface with your skin, making the rings more breathable.
✔️ Price: While most of the rings on our list sit between $20 and $35, there are more economical options available. That said, we've found you often get what you pay for. Cheaper silicone rings may not be as durable or resilient, requiring frequent turnover for newer bands due to a loss of shape. Rings priced upwards of $20, however, may also feature warranty offerings that include coverage for loss and theft or size changes, which makes them all the more worth it in the end.
✔️ Style and silhouette: If you're looking for a traditional swap for a wedding band, most silicone rings are designed in the same minimalist profile. Many are available in semi-metallic finishes that can mimic traditional wedding band gold and silver colors, but there are more intricate designs available that can substitute for engagement rings or more casual stackable bands. All the brands featured in this guide provide different styles in a myriad of combinations, with unique prints, colors and finishes to consider.
Often, gym goers choose to swap out their wedding rings or other fine jewelry for silicone bands for safety reasons and to avoid unintentional damage to their expensive pieces. When weightlifting, exposing fine metal wedding bands to texturized grips or other machinery can lead to scratching, discoloration, tarnishing or even accidental breakage. Silicone rings can handle extreme use — and they're sweat-resistant too. Unlike traditional rings, silicone bands can stretch. Well-made silicone rings will break if they're caught on something before serious damage is caused to your finger; the same can't always be said for metal rings.
As a busy working mother, Sassos also finds that silicone rings are great to wear while doing household tasks and out and about with her toddler. They vary in thickness, and which you choose ultimately comes down to comfort and personal taste.
Silicone rings are typically affordable, especially compared to traditional rings, and are cheap to replace. They tend to come in a wide variety of colors and styles, and some can offer alluring shimmer and shine to look strikingly close to a standard ring. They are soft and flexible and can withstand workouts, washing dishes and other tasks for busy hands.
Silicone rings are also a great way to protect valuable jewelry while traveling or taking part in activities that would put your fine jewelry at risk like swimming, for example. They can be worn in the ocean or the pool, while hiking or rock climbing and on adventure excursions while on vacation. They're a great way to signal commitment without putting wedding bands or engagement rings at risk of damage, loss or theft.
Most manufacturers have clear instructions on their storefront pages about their approach to sizing. ENSO's silicone rings, for example, are designed to slowly stretch to accommodate the circumference of your finger; the manufacturer tells its customers they can expect a more comfortable fit once the ring has been worn for a few days. If you normally wear a half-size, sizing guidelines should help you avoid bands that are too big.
As a NASM-certified personal trainer, Stefani Sassos uses her expertise and exercise science knowledge to create informed fitness content for the Good Housekeeping Institute. From vigorously testing exercise equipment to curating workout plans for Good Housekeeping readers, Stefani is passionate about leading an active lifestyle and inspiring others to do the same. She has been wearing silicone rings consistently for the past five years during her workouts and also finds them useful as a mom to an active toddler.
This guide was most recently updated by product analyst and writer, Olivia Lipski, who covers everything from tech to fitness, travel, lifestyle, home and more, and Amy Schlinger, NASM-certified personal trainer, who covers fitness, health, wellness, travel and more.
Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute, covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.
Amy Schlinger is a skilled reporter, writer and editor who has over 14 years of experience covering health, fitness, wellness, nutrition and lifestyle topics. She regularly interviews world-renowned doctors and medical professionals, elite trainers, nutrition experts, professional athletes and celebrities, and has held staff positions at Shape, DailyBurn, Self and PopSugar. Her work has appeared in Reader's Digest, Men’s Health, The New York Post, The Wall Street Journal, HuffPost, Women’s Health, Glamour, Runner’s World, Bicycling and more. She earned her BA in Media Arts and Design, with a concentration in Print Journalism, from James Madison University. Amy has run six half marathons, completed two triathlons, biked two century rides, finished two Tough Mudder races and four Spartan races, including a beast at the Spartan World Championships.
Stefani (she/her) is a registered dietitian, a NASM-certified personal trainer and the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab, where she handles all nutrition-related content, testing and evaluation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences from Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree in clinical nutrition from NYU. She is also Good Housekeeping’s on-staff fitness and exercise expert. Stefani is dedicated to providing readers with evidence-based content to encourage informed food choices and healthy living. She is an avid CrossFitter and a passionate home cook who loves spending time with her big fit Greek family.
The Best Kids Backpacks for the New School Year
The Best Zero Turn Mowers
These Amazon Bestsellers Are Must-Haves
The Best Mattresses for Heavy People
The Best Adjustable Beds for Seniors
The Best Robot Vacuums for Pet Hair
The Best Sheets You Can Buy on Amazon
A Part of Hearst Digital Media
Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.
Fuel Resistant O Rings ©2024 Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.