Zippers

Zippers

Zippers are mechanical fasteners that are used to join two pieces of fabric or other materials together. They consist of two parallel rows of teeth or coils that interlock when the slider is moved up or down. The slider is a small, often metal, piece that moves along the rows of teeth or coils, opening or closing the zipper. Zippers are commonly used in clothing, bags, and other items that require a secure closure. The history of the zipper dates back to the late 19th century, when Whitcomb Judson invented a device called the clasp locker. This early version of the zipper was not very successful, but it paved the way for the modern zipper, which was invented by Gideon Sundback in 1913. Sundback's design used interlocking teeth instead of hooks and loops, which made the zipper more reliable and easier to use. Zippers come in a variety of sizes, materials, and styles. The most common materials used for zippers are metal, plastic, and nylon. Metal zippers are strong and durable, but they can be heavy and noisy. Plastic zippers are lightweight and quiet, but they are not as strong as metal zippers. Nylon zippers are a good compromise between strength and weight, and they are often used in outdoor gear and sportswear. Zippers can be found in a wide range of products, from clothing and accessories to luggage and sporting goods. They are an essential component of many items, providing a secure and convenient closure that is easy to open and close. Whether you are zipping up your jacket on a cold day or packing your suitcase for a trip, zippers are an important part of everyday life.

mechanical fasteners, interlocking teeth, metal, plastic, nylon

— Matthew Scott

CITATION : "Matthew Scott. 'Zippers.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=286998 (Accessed on July 03, 2025)"