Zips are a ubiquitous part of our daily lives, found in clothing, bags, tents, and countless other items. Despite their commonplace nature, zippers come in various types, each suited to specific applications. Understanding the differences between these types can help you choose the right zipper for your needs, whether you're sewing a new garment, repairing a backpack, or customizing outdoor gear.

Types of Zips

1. Coil Zippers

Coil zippers, also known as nylon coil zippers, are the most common type of zipper. The teeth are made from a continuous coil of nylon or polyester. These zippers are lightweight, flexible, and strong, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, including clothing, bags, and tents.

Uses:

• Apparel (dresses, skirts, jackets)
• Bags and backpacks
• Outdoor gear (tents, sleeping bags)

2. Metal Zippers

Metal zippers have teeth made from metal (usually aluminium, brass, or nickel) that are clamped onto the zipper tape. They are known for their durability and strength but are less flexible than coil zippers. Metal zippers are often used for their aesthetic appeal and robust nature.

Uses:

• Jeans and pants
• Leather jackets and accessories
• Heavy-duty bags and luggage

3. Plastic Moulded Zippers

Plastic moulded zippers have teeth made from acetal resin that are directly melded onto the zipper tape. These zippers are strong and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for outdoor and marine applications. They are available in a variety of colours and are often chosen for their aesthetic versatility.

Uses:

• Outerwear (coats, jackets)
• Backpacks and sports bags
• Marine applications (boat covers, life jackets)

4. Invisible Zippers

Invisible zippers, also known as concealed zippers, are designed to be hidden within a seam, making them invisible from the outside of the garment. The teeth are located on the backside of the zipper tape, which is sewn into the garment's seam.

Uses:

• Formal wear (dresses, skirts)
• Cushions and pillows
• Fashion garments where a seamless look is desired

5. Separating Zippers (open-end)

Separating zippers, also known as open-end zippers, can completely separate into two pieces. They are commonly used in garments that need to be fully opened, such as jackets and coats. These zippers have a box and pin mechanism at the bottom, allowing the sides to detach completely.

Uses:

• Jackets and coats
• Hoodies and sweatshirts
• Outdoor gear (sleeping bags, tents)

6. Two-Way Separating (open-end) Zippers

Two-way separating zippers have two sliders that allow the zipper to be opened/closed from either end, and separate completely. They are practical for items that need to be accessed from multiple points or require ventilation, such as sleeping bags and jackets.

Uses:

• Long coats and jackets
• Sleeping bags
• Tents and luggage

7. Two-Way Non-Separating (closed end) Zippers

Two-way non-separating zippers have two sliders that allow the zipper to be opened from either end but do not come apart completely. The arrangement of the pulls can be:

1. Head-to-Head: The sliders face each other when the zipper is closed and pulling them apart from the middle opens the zipper in both directions. This configuration allows for versatile access and ventilation options.
2. Foot-to-Foot: The sliders are positioned at opposite ends of the zipper. When closed, both sliders are at the ends, and they can be pulled towards each other to open the zipper from either end. This design is useful for adjusting the opening size while keeping the overall structure intact.

Uses

Two-way non-separating zippers are particularly useful in applications where controlled opening from either direction is beneficial without the need for the zipper to completely separate. Here are some common uses:

Head-to-Head Configuration

• Luggage and Bags: Allows for easy access to contents from the middle, making packing and unpacking more convenient.
• Backpacks: Provides flexible access to different compartments and makes it easier to organize items.
• Camping Gear: In items like tent windows and ventilation flaps, head-to-head zippers allow for adjustable openings for air circulation without compromising the structure.

Foot-to-Foot Configuration

• Duffle Bags: Enables opening from either end, which is handy for quickly accessing items stored at the bottom or top of the bag without opening the entire zipper.
• Sports Bags: Useful for bags that carry sports equipment, allowing for easy retrieval from either end.
• Large Pockets: In garments or equipment with large pockets, foot-to-foot zippers provide easy access to items from either end of the pocket.

Advantages

• Versatility: Offers multiple ways to access contents without fully opening the item.
• Convenience: Makes it easier to reach items stored at different points within a bag or compartment.
• Control: Provides adjustable opening sizes for ventilation or access without affecting the overall integrity of the item.

8. Continuous Zippers

Continuous zippers are sold by the yard/metre and can be cut to any desired length. They do not often come with stops or sliders, which need to be purchased separately. These zippers are ideal for custom projects and repairs where specific lengths of closed end zips are required.

Uses:

• Upholstery
• Custom bags and gear
• Repairs for items with unusual zipper lengths

Glossary of Zipper Terms

• Teeth: The individual elements that interlock to close the zipper. Made from metal, plastic, or nylon.
• Tape: The fabric part of the zipper to which the teeth are attached.
• Slider: The component that moves up and down the teeth, opening and closing the zipper.
• Zip Puller: 
• Stop: Small metal or plastic pieces at the ends of the zipper that prevent the slider from coming off the teeth.
• Box and Pin: Mechanism found in separating zippers allowing the sides to detach.
• Coil: The continuous loop of nylon or polyester that forms the teeth in coil zippers.
• Invisible: Zippers designed to be hidden within a seam, visible only from the back side of the garment.

Conclusion

Selecting the right zipper can greatly enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your projects. Whether you need the robustness of a metal zipper for a pair of jeans, the flexibility of a coil zipper for a dress, or the seamless look of an invisible zipper for a formal gown, understanding the different types of zippers and their uses will help you make the best choice. Next time you’re working on a project, consider the specific needs and benefits of each zipper type to achieve the perfect finish.