Choosing the right zip can look more complicated than it needs to be. There are different types, codes and sizes, so it’s not always clear where to start!
This guide explains the PEX zips we make at our UK factory in plain English. It also covers the questions that help you pick the right one. You can see the full range on our finished zips page.
Choosing the right zip: what the sizes mean
Every zip code starts with a letter and a number. The letter shows the type, so S is spiral and P is plastic moulded. The number shows the width of the zip, measured across from tape to tape. The higher the number, the wider the zip.
So the S3 is our smallest spiral zip, and the sizes go up to the S10, which is the widest. The same idea applies to our moulded zips, where the P10 is wider than the P6.
Choosing the right zip: spiral S3, S7 and S9
Our spiral zips are made from a continuous coil of teeth and the coil is nylon polyester.
The S3 is the smallest. It suits dresses, skirts, trousers, scatter cushions and pencil cases, among many other products. It has welded top and bottom stops, and you can choose non-lock, auto-lock or non-ferrous designer slider pullers.
The S7 is our most versatile spiral zip. It works well for everything from bags and clothing to mattresses and upholstery. For closed-end zips, we use welded or metal stops. For open-end zips, we use a moulded top stop with a box and pin. It also comes on clear PVC tape, as a left-hand open-end (American style) zip, and in fire retardant chain.
The S9 is a robust zip for heavy-duty fabrics. It is now available as a two-way open-end zip with two non-lock double pull sliders. That makes it ideal for structures with panels that attach or detach, panels that open from top and bottom, or access from both inside and outside.
Choosing the right zip for wet or dusty conditions: S7R
Some products need to cope with water or dust. For these, we make the S7R, a water repellent, dust resilient version of the S7.
The S7R has a water repellent coating on one side, the flat surface and we fit reverse body sliders, so the coated side faces outwards. If you prefer the coating on the inside, we can use standard body sliders instead! You can choose closed-end, open-end, X or O types.
Choosing the right zip for a clean finish: concealed SC33
A concealed zip sits out of sight in the seam. As a result, the finished product looks clean and uninterrupted. Our SC33 is popular for dresses, skirts and trousers, as well as cushions. It comes on woven tape (SC33-V) or lace tape (SC33-L).
If you need a special colour, we can also supply that, just send us a sample. (Subject to minimum dye lots.)
Choosing the right zip for a bolder look: moulded P6, P8 and P10
Our moulded plastic zips have plastic teeth moulded onto the tape and this gives a bolder, more defined look. You can also mix and match tooth and tape options.
The P6 and P8 suit all the uses above. They also work well for show displays and pop-up displays. The P10 is more heavy duty, which makes it a good choice for motorbike and horse riding footwear, awnings, tents and heavy-duty bags. The S9 and S10 spiral zips suit similar jobs.
Want the look of metal without the weight? We can also make plastic zips and chain in five metal-look finishes: gold, silver, bronze, antique silver and antique brass. Moulded top and bottom stops are optional and the P6 is also available with a low profile moulded bottom stop.
Choosing the right zip: closed-end, open-end or two-way?
A closed-end zip has a stop at both ends, so it only opens so far. An open-end zip separates completely, which is what you need on the front of a jacket. A two-way open-end zip has a slider at each end, so you can open it from the top or the bottom.
Some products need two sliders on one zip. Here is how the other configurations work:
- O-type: a stop at each end and a slider at each end, so the zip opens in the middle.
- X-type: open at both the top and the bottom, and closed in the middle.
- X closed end: open at the top, with a second slider at the closed bottom end.
You can see a diagram of every configuration on our zip configurations page and each one is available in spiral and moulded zips.
Sliders and pulls
The slider and pull are the parts people actually touch, so they matter! Depending on the range, we offer non-lock, auto-lock, non-ferrous and all-plastic sliders. We also make special designer sliders.
Our custom designer pullers can be any shape, size or colour. We can make them in metal, rubber, plastic or a mix of materials. However, every custom puller needs a new mould, and that is an investment. The more complex the design, the more it costs. For this reason, custom pullers have a minimum order of 3,000 pieces.
Colours and lead times
We keep a huge range of colours in stock and most of the time, we can make and send your zips within days.
If you need a special dye lot, it typically takes 2 to 8 weeks, and we need a colour sample to work from. Special colours may also be subject to minimum dye lots. At busy times of year, lead times can stretch, so it definitely pays to plan ahead! To see colour matching in practice, read our London Fashion Week Behind The Scenes post.
Length and continuous chain
We can make zips in almost any length, starting from just 3cm. For example, we have made zips as short as 5cm and as long as 65 metres! In addition, every zip is available as continuous chain, and in spiral and moulded versions, if you would rather cut and fit your own.
New: No.3 and No.5 chain and sliders in UK stock
Do you import your own No.3 or No.5 zip chain to keep costs down? If so, we now hold both in UK stock, with matching sliders in black and beige. This range is aimed at the upholstery market.
Our chain is better quality than the typical imported alternative and as a result, you get competitive bulk prices and no long overseas lead times. You can also order as and when you need it – the dream!
Five questions to ask when choosing the right zip
- What will it be used for? A zip that is opened every day needs to be tougher than one that is rarely touched.
- How much strain will it take? A tightly fitted cover or a heavily loaded bag puts far more load on a zip than a pocket does.
- How should it look? Spiral, moulded and concealed zips each sit differently on the finished item, so decide early.
- Does it need to open fully, or from both ends? If so, you need an open-end or two-way open-end zip.
- What colour and finish do you need? Check whether your shade is in stock, and allow extra time for a special dye lot.
Whatever you choose, we recommend testing the zip under your own conditions. That way, you can be sure it suits the job and we’re always happy to send samples.
Not sure about choosing the right zip for your project? Get in touch on 0116 262 4988 or at sales@zipex.uk, and one of the team will be happy to help.
