Hip Hop Bracelets: Cuban, Tennis and Geometric CZ Compared

Every bracelet mentioned here is in the hip hop bracelets collection.

Hip hop bracelets split into three shapes. Each pairs with a different chain, and each has a different failure point. This is the short version of what to buy and what to avoid.

Cuban link bracelet

The wrist version of a Cuban chain. Heavy, flat, lies on the wrist bone. It is the most durable of the three because there are no stones to lose. Buy it in 8 mm for everyday and 12 mm if you want it to be the piece. Our Cuban link CZ bracelet adds small stones into each link if you want it iced without going to a full tennis bracelet.

Tennis bracelet

A single row of stones, the wrist version of a tennis chain. Brightest of the three, most fragile of the three. Check the prongs before buying and never wear it to the gym. Pairs with a tennis chain of the same stone size, or wears alone with a plain Cuban chain so the wrist is the focus. The tennis chain and bracelet set matches the two.

Geometric CZ bracelet

Square, hexagonal or baguette stones set into a rigid or semi-rigid band. This is the style that reads as "designed" rather than "chain". It sits between the other two on durability: the stones are larger and better held than a tennis bracelet, but the rigid sections can bend if sat on. The geometric CZ hip hop bracelet and the CZ necklace and bracelet set are the two shapes we carry most of.

Sizing a men's bracelet

Measure your wrist just above the bone with a tape or a strip of paper. Add 0.5 inch for a fitted look, 1 inch for a loose one. Most men are 7.5 to 8.5 inches. A tennis bracelet should be fitted; a Cuban can be loose. If the bracelet has no size option it is usually 8 inches.

Pairing with a chain

Match metal colour, not style. A gold Cuban chain with a gold tennis bracelet works; a gold chain with a silver bracelet looks like two separate purchases. The chains collection is sorted by colour so you can match.