How to Choose the Perfect Zipper

Your Guide to buying the best Zipper

Overview

This guide will provide you with all the necessary information you need to know when buying a zipper. We will cover different types of zippers, the various materials they can be made from, and the various features you should look out for. We will then discuss the best uses for different types of zippers and provide advice on how to choose the right zipper for your needs. By the end of this guide, you should have all the knowledge you need to make an informed decision when buying a zipper.

Key features

  1. Type: Consider the type of zipper you need. Different types of zippers are designed for different types of material and applications, such as metal zippers for coats, plastic zippers for bags, and coil zippers for skirts.
  2. Length: Consider the length of the zipper you need. Zippers come in different sizes, so measure the length of the opening or project you’re working on and buy the zipper accordingly.
  3. Quality: Consider the quality of the zipper. Cheaper zippers may not last as long or be as strong as more expensive ones, so choose a zipper that meets your needs.
  4. Color: Consider the color of the zipper. Zippers come in a variety of colors, so choose one that matches the material or project you’re working on.
  5. Slider: Consider the type of slider on the zipper. Sliders can be metal, plastic, or coil, and some offer more convenience than others.
  6. Price: Consider the price of the zipper. Zippers can range from a few dollars to hundreds, so decide your budget first and then choose the right zipper.

See the most popular Zipper on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability - Zippers are designed to withstand a variety of conditions and heavy use, making them highly durable and long-lasting.
  • Versatility - Zippers come in a variety of sizes, colors, and styles that can be used in nearly any application.
  • Ease of Use - Zippers are easy to use and can be quickly and easily operated with a single hand.
  • Customization - Many zipper makers offer customers the ability to customize their zippers with special colors, styles, and materials.
  • Cost-Effectiveness - Zippers are generally very affordable and cost-effective in comparison to other fastening solutions.

Cons

  • Durability - Zippers are not always reliable and can break, bend, or even rip out easily.
  • Size - Zipper sizes can vary, so it may be difficult to find one that fits your item perfectly.
  • Cost - Zippers can be quite expensive, especially if you need a more specialized type of zipper.
  • Security - Zippers can be picked, so they are not as secure as other fastening options.

Best alternatives

  1. Buttons - An inexpensive and versatile alternative to zippers with a wide range of styles and colors.
  2. Snaps - A quick and easy closure option that is popular in more casual and sportswear.
  3. Hook and Eye Closures - A very secure closure made of a hook and eye that are sewn onto the clothing.
  4. Velcro - An adjustable closure option that is often used on children’s clothing.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Zipper Pulls - Also known as zipper tags, zipper pulls are small handles used to open and close zippers.
  • Zipper Sliders - Zipper sliders are the metal or plastic clasps that run along the zipper's track to open and close the zipper.
  • Zipper Tape - Zipper tape is a strip of fabric with teeth along one edge, which is used to create the tracks for the zipper slider.
  • Zipper Stops - Zipper stops are small pieces of plastic or metal that are used to secure the slider in place, preventing it from sliding off the track.
  • Zipper Parts - Zipper parts include the slider, pulls, stops, and tape, as well as components such as fabric reinforcements, cord pulls, and metal stops.
  • Zipper Repair Kit - Zipper repair kits contain all the necessary supplies to repair a broken zipper, such as replacement sliders, pulls, stops, and tape.

Common questions

  1. What types of zipper are there? There are many types of zipper, including plastic, metal, nylon coil, and invisible, among others.
  2. Which type of zipper is best for my project? This depends on the specific needs of the project. Plastic zippers may be great for light-weight projects, while metal and nylon coil are better for heavier projects that require more strength. Invisible zippers are often used for clothing.
  3. How do I choose the right size zipper for my project? The size of the zipper should be based on the size of the project it is intended for. Generally, the size of the zipper should be 2–3 inches shorter than the opening it will be installed in.
  4. How do I measure a zipper? To measure a zipper, measure from the bottom of the stop to the top of the zipper slider. This will give the length of the zipper.
  5. What tools do I need to install a zipper? To install a zipper, you will need a zipper foot for your sewing machine, a pair of scissors, and a seam ripper.
  6. What is a zipper pull tab? A zipper pull tab is the part of the zipper that allows you to easily open and close the zipper. It is typically made of metal or plastic.
  7. What is a zipper slider? A zipper slider is the part of the zipper that moves along the zipper track to open and close the zipper. It is typically made of metal or plastic.

Trivia

Zipper was recently featured in the animated movie “Spies in Disguise” starring Will Smith and Tom Holland. The character Zipper, voiced by DJ Khaled, is a tech-savvy pigeon who helps the heroes in their mission. Zipper is known for his catchphrase “All I do is win, win, win”. This is a reference to Khaled’s 2011 hit single of the same name. The character was a hit with both kids and adults, and was even featured on the front cover of the official soundtrack for the movie. Source: https://www.cinemablend.com/news/2476293/spies-in-disguise-dj-khaled-character-zipper-has-his-own-cover-for-soundtrack

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.