YKK Slider guide #2, on ApparelX

YKK Slider Guide 102: intermediate guide

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In my previous blog about YKK slider (a beginner’s guide), I touched on the importance of the right slider when placing and order. YKK slider come in many shapes so this time, I will introduce various sliders that are suitable for different cases, to answer the question, “I want to use it like this, but which slider is best?”

Table of Content

CASE 1. I want to add my own pull tab

There are many different shapes of sliders, but sometimes you want to add an original pull tab or a unique charm. There
is a slider that makes that possible.

CA and ZA slider

As you can see, the CA and ZA sliders do not come with a pull tab.

CA
CA: side view
ZA
ZA: side view

The CA has a snap hook attachment at the end where the pull tab can be attached. You can attach a synthetic leather pull tab or a stylish metal pull tab like the ones below.
The ZA has no snap hook, so the pull tab is attached by pushing the pull tab in from the base. Since there is no snap hook, the length isn’t long and the design looks neat.

For CA: AZP6446 (on ApparelX here)
zipper slider pull tab
For CA: AB7653N (on ApparelX here)
zipper slider pull tab
For ZA: AB7556N (on ApparelX here)

Although pull tabs are sold by various companies, they are specifically designed to be attached to either the CA or ZA models, so please check whether they can be used with the one you have selected.

CASE 2. Can I change the color of the slider?

If you do not specify the color of the sliders, the metal zipper will be the same color as the elements, and the Coils, Vislons, etc. will be the same color as the tape color.

Of course, you can change the color.
You can even order a coil zipper with a gold slider.
Please specify the code or color name below when ordering.
**Please note that some sliders may not be available in certain colors, so please check with us in advance.
***Please also note that the finishes on the left chart below are the only ones available offered by YKK Japan. The page on the right is on the English version of their digital catalog but please use only for reference.

Not all of the ones above are available in YKK Japan. Please use the chart on the left.

CASE 3. Are there any reversible sliders (front and back)?

Double slider
DWL
DWL: diagram
reversible slider
DU
DU: diagram

The double-sided slider (DWL) has handles on both sides and can be opened and closed by holding the handles from either the front or back.

The reversible slider (DU) has a single pull tab that can move along a rotating rail. This allows the zipper to be opened and closed from either side.
It is often used on the reversible jackets.

Please note, size 3 coil open zippers cannot have 2 pullers and that some sizes and types cannot be fitted with 2 pullers.

CASE 4. What is the shape of the slider for a waterproof zipper (Aquaguard)?

Aquaguard®, commonly known as “waterproof zippers,” are zippers with a strong water-repellent finish, made by laminating polyurethane to the zipper tape. They
are often used in raincoats, windbreakers, outdoor bags, etc., and the sliders used for these highly waterproof zippers are different from normal ones.

Aquaguard slider

Aquaguard is a type of coil zipper, but as you can see in the above picture, the coil part is on the inside and only the tape part is visible on the outside to prevent water from getting in.

Aquaguard slider

This is a reverse slider, and a ‘B’ will be added after the slider code. It looks the same as a normal zipper.
If you order an Aquaguard zipper, it will automatically come with a reverse slider, but if you want the slider by itself, be sure to specify “reverse slider.”

CASE 5.What kind of slider should I choose for my jeans zipper?

For zippers on jeans, we recommend Yzip® zippers, which are more resistant to washing than regular metal zippers.
What makes them different is that each element is strongly fixed to the zipper tape, making them more resistant to washing and cleaning.

The Yzip® sliders are also stronger than normal and are shaped to not dangle or get caught during the tumble washing process.

If no preference is given, GSN8 will be attached. This GSN8 is locked when the pull tab is facing down, and unlocked when the pull tab is raised, allowing it to be moved.

Jeans slider
GSN8 slider Sizes 3 and 4 have a tapered tip.
Jeans slider
5 sizes come with a square GSN8 slider
Jeans slider
If you want a square slider in size 3 or 4, choose GA10.
Jeans slider
Some sliders are stamped with JEANS instead of YKK.

Extra info

A slider called DSYG

DSYG Slider

The DSYG has a rubber pull handle that locks when the handle is down and unlocks when the handle is raised.

This is often used for outdoor and sportswear.
Originally, it could only be attached to Coil and Vislon zippers, but it can now be attached to five sizes of metal zippers only.

A slider called DAG8

Previously, they were used under reverse-opening zippers, but now they have all been standardized to the DA8LH shape.

If you do not specify the slider for a reverse zipper, the upper slider will be DA and the lower one will be DA8LH.
When ordering a reverse zipper, it is possible to change the shape of the sliders on the top and bottom.
If you want them to be the same, it is best to give that instruction in the memo line.

This article was a little more in depth and went over several different types of sliders. I hope this was informative and will help you the next time you need to decide which one to use on your YKK zipper.

ApparelX is a BtoB ecommerce platform for brands, tailors and the like to order from small MOQs from a variety of manufacturers in one order. And we ship worldwide!
Check out our FAQ page, Youtube, and LinkedIn if you have basic questions or looking to stay connected.
If you are looking to bulk order, custom order, or have any other questions, contact us through our contact form and a member on the Global Strategy Team will get back to you within the next business day. (Please understand that we are based in Japan and our office hours are 9am-6pm so we are only able to answer during that time).

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