YKK’s tagline is “Little Parts. Big Difference.” for one clear reason: Choosing the appropriate zipper for your application will make or break your wearable’s functionality. Here we provide a guide for choosing the best zipper for your garment.
The 3 Big Decisions
The process of choosing a zipper for wearables begins with three key decisions.
Decide the zipper function and slider needed.
Typically, for the center front portion of a jacket an open-end or two-way open end zipper with an auto or semi-auto lock slider is used. This is so that the zipper will not open on its own!
Regarding pockets and sleeves for jackets, a closed-end zipper with a non-lock slider is employed so that these compartments can be opened easily.
Flies for bottoms call for closed-end zippers with an auto or semi-auto lock slider. The specific recommended zipper differs by the thickness of the fabric and the type of pants.
Decide the gauge.
Available gauges, or zipper measurements, differ by item. Please consult your YKK sales rep with any questions.
Decide the details.
Consider desired colors, element finish, zipper length, or other features to ensure the zipper is compatible with your application.
Zippers According to Application
Jeans
Our YZiP® zippers are specifically for denim apparel. Since jeans go through tough washing, the YZiP® zipper is designed to be strong enough to resist corrosion when compared to standard metal zippers. This fastener is available in different sizes and various finishes, with both standard and customized logo pulls.
Sports/Outdoor Wear
AquaGuard®, a water-repellent zipper, is rendered so by applying a PU coating on the backside of the zipper. There are two types of film variation for this product: shiny transparent film and matte transparent film. AquaGuard® zippers come in both coil and VISLON® versions. For more information on choosing the best zipper for sports and outdoor applications, click here.
Marine Wear
Our AQUASEAL® zipper is perfect for active marine sportswear wearables like waders and wet suits. The PROSEAL® zipper is best suited for water-tight, air-tight applications such as immersion suits and dry suits.
Casual/Ready to Wear
For this type of clothing, our CONCEAL® and EXCELLA® zipper lines are preferred. When the slider on YKK’s CONCEAL® zipper is closed, the zipper disappears to look like a finished seam. The beautiful, shiny EXCELLA® zipper, on the other hand, is rather visible, but gives clothing a luxurious appearance. It is available in a variety of surface colors, including silver, gold, and antique finish.
Handbags
For a comprehensive overview of zippers for handbags, click here.
Made Your Decision?
Contact us today to help you begin solving your most complex fastening and attaching challenges!
