Hi there. As a band collector I can make sure that since Apple Watch S5, the Apple loop is different from the Nike loop. The density of nylon wave on Apple loop is greater than that on Nike loop. I feel more comfortable with Apple loop, but I can understand they cannot increase the density of nylon wave on Nike loop, that will decrease the reflection. There is no difference between Apple loop of S4 and the Nike loop.
Attached is my collection.
View attachment 909771
[automerge]1587994644[/automerge]
And you are correct, Apple loop (since S5) is softer.