When we think of tactical gear, we often focus on the durability of materials, the toughness of design, and the functionality of the equipment. But there’s one component that needs attention—zippers.
Zippers may seem like a small detail, but their quality and reliability can make or break the usability of a piece of tactical equipment. Whether it’s a tactical backpack, a plate carrier, or a utility pouch, the zipper must work smoothly to ensure quick, easy access and provide durability in demanding conditions.
In this article, we’ll explore why zippers are important in tactical gear and how to choose the right one.
Brief History of the Zipper
The zipper, as we know it today, wasn’t always the simple, dependable fastener we use in tactical gear. It has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century.
The first working zipper was invented by Swedish engineer Gideon Sundback in 1913. Sundback’s design was built upon earlier attempts to create a reliable fastening system, and his “separable fastener” featured interlocking metal teeth.
This made it not only more functional but also more durable than previous designs, such as buttons or hooks.
Over the years, the zipper evolved. In the 1930s, it became a standard feature in clothing and bags. By the 1950s, zippers were widely used in various industries, including military and outdoor equipment, where quick access and durability were crucial.
Today, zippers come in many types and materials, each designed for specific purposes. In tactical gear, they need to be tough, functional, and easy to operate, even in extreme conditions.
Anatomy of a Zipper
To understand why zippers are important in tactical gear, it’s helpful to know how they work. A zipper is made up of several key components:
- Teeth: The interlocking elements that connect when the zipper is closed. They are typically made of metal, nylon, or plastic.
- Tape: The fabric that holds the teeth in place. It can be made from materials like nylon, polyester, or cotton.
- Slider: The moving part that opens and closes the zipper by engaging or disengaging the teeth. Sliders come in different designs, from simple pull-tabs to more advanced locking mechanisms.
- Pull Tab: The small loop or handle attached to the slider. It makes it easier to operate the zipper, especially in stressful situations where speed and efficiency are crucial.
Types of Zippers
Let’s break down the most common types of zippers used in tactical gear:
Basic, reliable zippers for everyday tactical gear.
Common in backpacks, pouches, and jackets.
Lightweight, flexible zippers made of nylon or polyester.
Quiet and resistant to wear, used in backpacks and soft-shell jackets.
Similar to coil zippers but with reversed coil placement.
The teeth are on the inside, which makes them more aesthetically pleasing and less prone to snagging.
Common in clothing and lighter gear.
Strong, durable zippers with metal teeth.
Ideal for heavy-duty gear like tactical vests and bags.
Flexible, lightweight zippers with nylon teeth.
Used in softer, more flexible gear like pouches.
Specially coated to keep moisture out.
Ideal for rain-resistant backpacks, jackets, and military gear used in wet conditions.
Not fully waterproof, but have water-repellent coatings.
Used for gear that will be exposed to light rain or moisture (e.g., backpacks).
Double-slider zippers that open from both ends.
Provide quick access from multiple directions, used in vests, jackets, and bags.
Zipper Sizes
The sizes for zippers, particularly in tactical gear, are generally standardized by the width of the teeth (gauge). Some common sizes are:
#3 Zipper: Small, lightweight, used for clothing or smaller pouches.
#5 Zipper: Medium size, the most common size for tactical gear.
#8 Zipper: Heavy-duty, used in large backpacks and bags.
#10 Zipper: The largest, used in military gear and heavy-duty applications
Applications in Tactical Equipment
Zippers are used in many types of tactical gear. Common applications include:
- Backpacks and Bags: Zippers are essential for securing items and providing quick access to gear. They allow tactical backpacks to have multiple compartments that can be quickly opened or closed.
- Plate Carriers and Vests: Zippers are used to close and open the main compartments of tactical vests, where armor plates and other equipment are stored.
- Pouches and Holsters: Zippers help ensure they remain securely closed but can be easily opened when needed.
- Jackets and Outerwear: Tactical jackets often feature heavy-duty zippers to provide quick access to interior pockets or to allow for ventilation during intense physical activity.
Trusted Zipper Brands
Here are some of the most trusted zipper brands known for their quality and reliability.
1. YKK (Yoshida Kogyo Kabushikikaisha) Zippers
YKK is arguably the most well-known zipper manufacturer globally and a standard in the tactical gear industry. Founded in Japan in 1934, YKK is known for its precision manufacturing, durable materials, and smooth functionality. Their zippers are used in a wide range of industries, from fashion to heavy-duty tactical gear.
In tactical gear, YKK zippers are often used in military-grade backpacks, jackets, and tactical vests. Many high-end tactical gear brands prefer YKK zippers because of their consistent performance.
2. AquaGuard by YKK
For tactical gear that requires waterproof zippers, YKK’s AquaGuard line is a standout. AquaGuard’s zippers have sealed tapes and coatings that prevent water from seeping through, making them ideal for outdoor, military, or survival gear.
3. SBS Zippers
SBS is a Chinese company that produces high-quality zippers for various industries, including military, outdoor, and tactical applications. While they may not be as globally recognized as YKK, SBS has gained a solid reputation for producing durable and affordable zippers. SBS zippers are often used in tactical backpacks, vests, pouches, and more.
4. Talon Zippers
Talon Zippers is one of the oldest zipper manufacturers in the world, founded in 1893. They have a long history of providing high-quality zippers for a range of applications, including military and tactical gear.
Talon offers various zipper types, including heavy-duty metal zippers, which are often used in tactical vests, backpacks, and gear that must endure rough conditions.
5. RiRi Zippers
RiRi is a Swiss brand known for its precision engineering and high-end zippers.
Best for high-end tactical backpacks where both performance and aesthetics are important.
6. IDEAL Fastener
IDEAL Fastener is a major global manufacturer of zippers, offering a wide range of products for different applications.
Versatile for use in various tactical backpacks, particularly those requiring innovative and high-performance zippers.
Maintenance and Care
Proper care and maintenance can extend the life of your zippers, ensuring that they continue to function smoothly. Here are some tips for maintaining zippers:
- Clean regularly: Dirt and debris can get stuck in the zipper teeth, making it difficult to open and close. Clean the teeth with a soft brush or cloth.
- Lubricate the zipper: Periodic lubrication can help the zipper slide more smoothly. Use a wax-based lubricant or a zipper-specific spray.
- Fix small issues early: If you notice a zipper starting to catch or become difficult to operate, address the problem before it worsens. Sometimes, gently realigning the teeth can solve the issue.
- Avoid overloading: Zippers can handle a certain amount of stress, but overloading a bag or pouch can cause the zipper to fail. Make sure not to exceed the gear’s capacity.
If a zipper does break or become damaged, it’s often possible to repair it by replacing the slider or teeth, but if the damage is extensive, it may be time to replace the zipper entirely.
Choose LQARMY for Your Tactical Gear Needs
Zippers are an essential component of tactical gear. From ensuring quick access to keeping your gear secure, they play a key role in the effectiveness of tactical equipment. When choosing tactical gear, always consider the quality of the zippers, as they directly affect the gear’s performance.
As a professional custom tactical gear manufacturer with over 15 years of experience, we prioritize high-quality zippers in all of our products to ensure they withstand the demands of tactical operations.
Whether you need water-resistant zippers for wet conditions, lockable zippers for added security, or heavy-duty zippers for rugged use, we’ve got you covered.
Contact us today freely if you need any assistance.
