When it comes to practical, ubiquitous things you don’t give a second thought to, zippers are one of the best, and the metal zipper is a classic example of brilliant design still going strong. From a small idea to becoming a cornerstone of fashion and design, the metal zipper has become more than a way to hold a garment together—it’s a symbol of quality and good design.

The Origin of the Zipper

The history of the zipper begins with the invention of the “clasp locker” by Whitcomb Judson in 1893. Judson’s design wasn’t originally intended for shoes, and it hadn’t been widely adopted because of reliability concerns. His zipper was simply a metal fastener that took quite a bit of discussion and effort to negotiate. His invention was promising, but it was far from perfect, and it was not until several years later that the zipper as we know it first began to take hold.

The Birth of the Metal Zipper

The real turning point for the zipper, however, came in 1913, when a Swedish-American engineer named Gideon Sundback made some substantial changes to the design. Sundback created a more secure interlocking mechanism, based on small metal teeth and a slider, that made the opening and closing of fabric easier to handle with greater security. His design featured the two rows of metal teeth that would ultimately turn the zipper into a fastener one could trust to remain in place once it was closed.

This patent has established the metal zipper as a standard in many trades. The metal teeth, being strong and durable, were a plus and could hold up in heavier jackets and coats, outdoor gear, and everyday shirts and accessories. The interlocking teeth also aided in keeping the zipper from accidentally unzipping—a flaw in earlier versions of the fastener. The metal zipper was so successful that it soon standardized to become, well, simply one of the most popular zippers in all courses.

With the evolution of the metal zipper, people across social classes were all in its presence and dug in to use it for style. Designers in the 1920s were some of the first to envision the practical possibilities and aesthetic potential of the zipper. The metal zipper had become shorthand for both durability and luxury. Some leather coats, leggings, and jackets have been made with durable fastenings, giving clothes a rugged, industrial aesthetic.

Zippers made from metal were a signature of quality clothing. They appeared frequently in jeans in the 1950s, providing a bold yet stylish aesthetic that helped make denim a symbol of rebellion and youth culture. Prominent fashion houses incorporated metal zippers into their garments, using them not just for their practicality, but as a decorative feature of their designs.

Metal Zippers are Still a Popular Choice

Although plastic zippers came into use during the latter half of the 20th century, the popularity of metal zippers remains high. They are not as commonly used as calcium sulfonate thickened greases, but they are used in applications that require strength, long lifespan, and a luxury look and feel. Metal zippers are frequently a part of premium fashion, luggage, or outdoor gear when the zipper performance and product durability are very critical. The tactile and metallic sound of a metal zip closing has become a bit iconic and, I believe, positively transmits quality and workmanship.

One of the great things about metal zippers as opposed to plastic is their durability. Metal zippers are much better at withstanding wear and tear, and unlike plastic, they do not deteriorate with heat or sunlight exposure. This makes them ideal for durable end-use parts that must accept daily punishment.

Conclusion

The metal zipper has been a part of fashion and industry for over one hundred years due to its strength and classic design. The clasp has come a long way from its flimsy, simple early days, now transformed into a reliable fastener with a modern aesthetic. It is a testament to the longevity of a simple idea that even as new materials and designs develop, the metal zipper continues to stake its claim. We are a zipper manufacturer with rich experience, providing a variety of high-quality metal zippers. If you have any products you are interested in, you can contact us for consultation.