Shoe Zipper: Types, Benefits and Care
A zipper is a device consisting of two textile strips with plastic or metal links attached to the edges. When the slider moves, the links connect, ensuring a secure closure of shoes or clothing. Three main types of zippers are used in the footwear industry: spiral, tractor, and metal.
Types of zippers in the footwear industry
Inshoe production, three main types of zippers are most often used: spiral, tractor, and metal. Each of these types has its own characteristics and is used depending on the design of the shoe.
Spiral zipper
A spiral, or twisted zipper, is made of synthetic fiber twisted into a spiral, which is sewn to a textile base. The fiber has jagged protrusions that, when fastened, firmly engage with the teeth on the opposite side.
The main advantages of a spiral zipper:
- Flexibility. The teeth of this zipper are formed from a twisted spiral, which allows the zipper to bend easily, ensuring a smooth movement.
- Durability. The spiral zipper can withstand heavy loads and is not afraid of moisture.
- Waterproof. The tight grip between the teeth prevents water from penetrating into the shoe.
The spiral zipper is the most common in the footwear industry due to its flexibility, durability and high resistance to external influences.
Tractor zipper
The tractor zipper got its name for its external resemblance to tracked vehicles. It consists of individual teeth that are attached to the tape. The teeth are large and interlock with a runner.
Advantages and disadvantages of a tractor zipper:
- Ease of fastening, since the design of the teeth makes the zipper convenient to use.
- However, a tractor zipper is less resistant to bending and loads, which makes it less reliable in long-term use. It is most often used as a decorative element.
Metal zipper
A metal zipper looks like a tractor zipper, but its teeth are made of metal. Each tooth has an asymmetrical shape – a protrusion on one side and a recess on the other, which ensures reliable adhesion.
Advantages and disadvantages of metal zipper:
- Reliability. Despite their appearance, metal zippers have a shorter lifespan than spiral zippers, as they are susceptible to corrosion and damage.
- Vulnerability to moisture. Exposure to moisture or chemicals can lead to rapid failure.
This is the reason why metal zippers are used less often in the shoe industry.
Why is the spiral zipper most often used in shoes?
Of the three types of fasteners, the spiral zipper is the most popular in the shoe industry. This is explained by a number of its unique properties:
- Flexibility and durability. Due to their design, spiral zippers can withstand frequent bending and stretching.
- Resistance to external factors. Unlike a metal zipper, a spiral zipper is not afraid of moisture and chemical influences, which makes it ideal for active use.
- Variety of colors and sizes. Spiral zippers are presented on the market in a wide range of colors and sizes, which allows them to be used in a variety of types of shoes, from casual to specialized.
The history of the zipper
First steps
The history of the zipper goes back more than 100 years. It was first presented at an exhibition in 1893 by the American inventor Whitcomb Judson.His design for a fastener, originally intended for shoes, was a prototype of the modern zipper, but for a number of reasons his idea was not implemented into production.
Gideon Sundback’s Invention
A real breakthrough in the development of the fastener occurred thanks to the American engineer of Swedish origin Gideon Sundback. In 1923, he patented his version of the zipper, which became the basis for the further development of the technology. It is noteworthy that the first zippers were also used mainly in shoes, and then in clothing.
Modern zipper design
You will say, why do I need to know zipper design and do I need it?
I will answer that it is necessary.
At least now you can correctly call the parts of the zipper by their proper names when you contact the workshop.
Today, the zipper consists of several elements:
Nowadays, we can most often see the following zipper design.
- Tape (the main textile material to which the teeth are attached.)
- Top end of the tape
- Lower end of the tape
- Top stops (elements that prevent the slider from falling out.)
- Bracket
- Slider (dog, slider) A mechanism that closes or opens the zipper when moving up or down.
- Keychain (holder)
- Teeth (plastic or metal elements that are connected by a slider.)
Features of zippers in shoes
The role of zippers in shoes
Zippers play an important role in everyday shoes. Their main purpose is to facilitate the process of putting on and taking off shoes, especially in high models such as boots and shoes.
Zippers in women’s boots
In women’s boots, the zipper is often supplemented with a special valve located under the tape. This element protects the foot from friction against metal or plastic parts, and also prevents dirt or moisture from getting inside the boot.
How to properly care for a zipper?
In order for the zipper to last longer, you need to properly care for it. For example, metal zippers can become rusty over time if they are not cleaned.Regular cleaning and lubrication are recommended for coil zippers to prevent jamming.
Troubleshooting
If the zipper on your shoes starts to close poorly, it can be replaced at a shoe repair shop. It is important to understand that timely zipper replacement can extend the life of your shoes.
Conclusion
A zipper is an integral part of modern footwear. Depending on its type, it can provide ease of use, durability, and protection from external factors.
Today, a zipper is used not only for convenience, but also as a decorative element. Many shoe manufacturers add zippers to their models to create a unique style and improve functionality.
