Structure of Zipper & Slider

Zippers are generally supplied in two main forms: long chain zippers and finished zippers. Finished zippers, also known as fixed-length or cut-to-length zippers, are pre-sized for specific applications. This section focuses on the different types of finished zippers.

A finished zipper consists of 4 main components: the zipper tape, zipper teeth (or coil), the slider, and the end components.

  • Zipper teeth are generally categorized into three types: coil, plastic molded, and metal - each offering distinct mechanical properties suited to different applications and use cases.

  • Zipper tape is arguably the most critical component of a zipper, as it largely determines its performance and functionality. It can be constructed in various weaves and patterns to suit different applications, and may also undergo specialized treatments for specific conditions, such as flame resistance, water repellency, or TPU lamination.

  • The slider determines how the zipper functions in use. It is typically categorized into three main types: auto-lock, non-lock, and semi-auto-lock, each defining whether the zipper remains in position or moves freely without user intervention. The puller serves as the primary point of interaction for the user, and can be customized with various logos or designs.

  • Depending on the zipper type, different end components are used. For example, open-end (separating) zippers incorporate a pin and box system, while closed-end zippers use a bottom stop.

    These components are available in a range of materials, including molded plastic, polyester, aluminum, brass, and stainless steel.

Structure of Zipper
Open end Zipper Structure
Closed End Zipper Structure
Structure of Zipper Slider

Types of Zipper

  • Polyester Coil Zipper

    Polyester Coil Zipper

    • Most coil zippers use Polyester tape that is flexible but strong. Polyester Coil Zippers are the most versatile of zippers that can be adapted for different scenarios

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  • Plastic Molded Zipper

    Plastic Molded Zipper

    • Feature individually molded plastic teeth that are directly formed onto the zipper tape, creating a sturdy chain with a chunky appearance.

    • or sometimes called “Vislon” by other brands.

    Learn More
  • Metal Zipper (Brass Teeth)

    Metal Zipper (Brass Teeth)

    • Brass makes excellent sliders and zipper teeth due to its corrosion resistance and attractive look. It's used for premium clothing and bags.

  • Metal Zipper Stainless Steel Zipper

    Metal Zipper (Stainless Steel)

    • Strong but lightweight steel teeth are rust resistant and suitable for outdoor and rugged use.

    Learn More

Zippers are essential closures used in a wide variety of products and industries. With many types and materials available, it's important to understand the options to select the right zipper. This guide provides an overview of common zipper types, materials, and applications.

Zipper Types:

There are a few main categories of zippers defined by their design:

  • Coil Zippers - Also called spiral zippers, these have two interlocking coils made of polyester or nylon. Coil zippers are flexible and durable. They are commonly used in garments, bags, shoes and more.

    • Invisible Zipper - invisible zippers are a sub-category of Coil zipper - the coil is sewed on to a folded portion of the tape to create a seamless closure - this kind of zipper is commonly use on dresses, car seats or furnitures where zippers coil and zipper sliders are hidden under the fabric.

  • Metal Zippers - These heavy duty zippers have teeth made from brass, aluminum or stainless steel. The metal teeth mesh together to create a strong closure. Metal zippers are found on jeans, luggage, leather goods, outdoor gear and industrial uses.

  • Plastic Zippers - Plastic zipper teeth can be made from polyacetal (POM) or polyamide (PA66). They are lightweight and easy to open but less durable than metal teeth. Plastic zippers are used on cheaper bags, pencil cases, boxers and lightweight jackets.

    • Biodegradable Plastic Zipper - unlike regular plastic zipper, our patent-protected biodegradable zippers are made using biodegradable materials.

Close-up of three different colored zippers on fabric: pink, black, cream, and bright green.

Types of Functions (Finished Zipper)

  • Closed End Zipper

    Closed End

    A closed end zipper is a type of zipper where the the two zipper tapes meet at the ending and joined with a bottom stop.

    Closed end zippers are common in jeans, pockets on clothes, bags, etc.

  • Open-end Zipper

    Open End

    An open end zipper is a type of zipper where the two tapes could be separated when the slider reaches the box. Each tape has a pin which is then joined by inserting them into the bottom box.

    This comes into 2 variations, left insert and right insert, which denotes the direction in which the ends are inserted.

    This is commonly found in jackets or hoodies.

  • Two Way Separator (Open End)

    Two Way Separator (Open End)

    Two Way Separator finished zipper is a type of zipper where the two sliders meet away from each other to close the zipper.

    The zipper tapes is separated by moving the two sliders to the bottom end.

    This type of zipper is commonly found on jackets where the jacket could be unzipped completely or unzipped halfway at the bottom.

  • Y-shaped Two Way Closed End

    Y Shaped Two Way Closed End

    Y-shaped Two Way Closed End is a type of zipper where the two sliders meet away from each other to close the zipper.

    Unlike Two Way Separator, the zipper tapes on Y-shaped Two Way Closed End cannot be separated as the endings are joined with a bottom stop.

  • X Shape 2 Way Open End

    X Shape 2 Way Open End

    X Shape 2 Way Open is where two sliders (bottom to bottom) meet away from each other to close the zipper.

    This tapes cannot separated as the sliders cannot go passed the top and bottom stops.

  • O-shape Two Way Closed End

    O Shape Two Way Closed End

    O-shaped two way closed end is where two sliders (head to head) meet together to close the zipper.

    The opposite ends are joined with a box, thus the tapes cannot be separated.

Zipper Applications

With the right zipper type and material, zippers can be engineered for countless products:

  • Clothing - Garments use nylon coil, plastic and invisible zippers. Two-way zippers are practical on jackets. Metal zippers reinforce denim jeans.

  • Bags - Strong nylon coil zips work well on backpacks and purses. Fashion handbags may use ornate brass or nickel zippers.

  • Shoes and Accessories - Small nylon zippers secure wallets, cosmetic cases and pencil cases neatly. They also close shoe fronts elegantly.

  • Furniture and Bedding - Upholstered furniture, mattresses and pillows often hide zippers for easy assembly and removal of covers. Durable plastic or metal teeth stand up to repeated use.

  • Luggage - For suitcases and duffel bags, metal zippers like aluminum provide robust closures on heavy fabrics.

  • Outdoor Gear - Backpacks for hiking and camping require waterproof zippers made to flex and seal out the elements.