What Are Silicone Wedding Rings?

When you envision wedding rings, you probably picture metal bands, which is why you might be scratching your head at the idea of a rubber version. In actuality, silicone styles are becoming increasingly popular thanks to the number of benefits they offer to certain brides and grooms. To learn more about the option, we spoke with two leading experts in the market. Here, they answer all of your questions about the marriage jewelry trend.

What are silicone wedding rings?

The name says it all. They're rubber bands that come in men's and women's styles and are worn to represent a spouse's union. "Silicone wedding rings are a great alternative to the traditional metal wedding band," says Carrie Seifert of QALO. Brighton Jones, co-founder of Enso Rings, points out that they can be just as stylish, too (the ones pictured above are by the brand).

Are silicone wedding rings safe?

Yes, and here's how. "Silicone rings are approved to wear in more workplaces and professions than any other ring," Seifert says. "In many cases, they also prevent injuries including blistering, ring avulsion, and degloving." That's because "if caught, the ring will break before causing damage to your finger." Silicone isn't just flexible but it's durable, too. It's "non-conductive and hypoallergenic," Jones confirms, while Seifert mentions that it's also "non-porous." No wonder electricians, nurses, and the likes choose to buy rubber wedding bands.

Why wear silicone wedding rings?

First and foremost, your lifestyle. "Active couples may decide to purchase and wear silicone wedding rings to use while at the gym or during their favorite outdoor activities, allowing them to leave their traditional rings safe at home," says Seifert. In other instances, "their occupation doesn't allow them to wear a metal ring," or makes it less safe or comfortable to do so. That's why you'll spot rubber wedding bands on everyone from professional athletes to firefighters.

The appeal extends beyond fitness and work, though. According to Seifert, "couples who travel, couples who have small children (they don't want to scratch their child with a diamond ring or damage their ring while chasing a toddler), or people who have metal allergies" may be drawn to silicone wedding jewelry. Aside from the pros of safety and comfort, they're "fashionable and affordable," Jones adds. Both Enso Rings and QALO styles come in a wide range of colors and designs, for example, and the former start at just $9.99 while the later start at $19.99. In turn, if you "like options," as Seifert puts it, you can purchase more than one without breaking the bank. You can also get yours customized (with text, patterns, and more) to truly meet your vision.

Basically, whether you're adventurous or have special career circumstances, silicone wedding rings can take the worry out of symbolizing your marriage. Rather than go without a band, you can wear one that suits your needs, or buy an alternative to supplement your traditional one when it's better to leave something metal behind.