After gaining a clearer understanding about the difference between water-resistant and waterproof YKK® zippers, the next step is learning about some best applications in the outdoor industry for these zippers.
AquaGuard® Water-Resistant Zippers
Backpacks
For years it has been standard to use regular coil chain in backpacks. But then leaders in the outdoor industry started implementing YKK’s AquaGuard® zippers and the rest is history. The advantage of using a water-resistant chain is two-fold. Firstly, it elevates the look of the backpack. With most backpacks using treated materials to provide protection from the elements, the look of AquaGuard® zippers complement the bag’s form and function. Not only is the pack water-protected, but now it looks water protected with the addition of a coated zipper. Second, in many cases it removes the need for a flap or garage to cover the pack’s coil zipper since AquaGuard® zippers can provide the same protection to the contents of the bag.
Jackets and Outerwear
Whether for hunting, hiking, skiing, cycling, or running, protection from weather is important to outdoor sports, and a good jacket is key. AquaGuard® zippers are as advantageous to the design of a jacket as they are to a backpack in that they elevate the look and help alleviate the need for a flap over the zipper. In addition, these zippers can be RF welded or ultrasonically bonded to a jacket made of PU-coated materials, which reduces the need to sew in the zipper. Also consider AquaGuard® zippers for accessory pockets and leg zips on ski pants.
AquaGuard® zippers come in coil and VISLON® zippers.
AquaGuard® Coil zipper
AquaGuard® VISLON®
AQUASEAL® Waterproof Zippers
Waders
For fishing and hunting waterfowl, it is crucial for the wearer to stay dry and warm for extended periods of time. In this case, it’s necessary to take the zipper to the next level and implement a waterproof zipper. YKK’s AQUASEAL® zipper is made of molded plastic teeth, called VISLON® zipper, which is beneficial to help reduce the overall weight of the wader. Because AQUASEAL® zippers are made from plastic, they can be used in both fresh and saltwater applications.
Kayaking and Rafting
As with waders, dry suits for kayaking require a waterproof zipper. AQUASEAL® zippers help protect the wearer’s body through rough water kayaking and the sometimes severe conditions of white-water rafting. See AQUASEAL® zipper in action here:
Supplemental to dry suits, AQUASEAL® zippers can also be used on the raft, keeping air in and water out. At the end of the ride, the user can unzip the raft to allow for a quicker release of air so the raft can be folded up and transported.
AQUASEAL® zipper
AQUASEAL® zipper with Stainless Steel Slider
Visit the YKK Digital Showroom to learn more about our water-protective fasteners.
AquaGuard and AQUASEAL are registered trademarks of YKK CORPORATION.
©2022 YKK Corporation of America
