Magnetic snap buttons are snaps that close with a magnet, without pressure and without the characteristic click, while stainless steel snaps are made of stainless steel and do not rust even with frequent moisture and washing. Both are part of the special snap button systems – together with the combination models and the post models – and are used on bags, cases, outerwear and products exposed to moisture.
Special systems: what sets them apart
The standard spring systems (54 and 61) cover most garments. The special systems solve specific tasks: fastening without effort, working in a damp environment, a stronger bottom part for leather, or combining the cap of one system with the mechanism of another. The construction varies by model – with a cap from the 54 or 61 system, an aluminium or steel post, or a magnetic core.
| Code | Model | Material | Sizes | Logo | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SP-10 | Combination system with 54 cap | brass | 10.5; 11.5; 12.5; 13; 14; 15; 16; 17; 18; 19; 20; 25; 30 mm | yes | jackets, denim jackets, trench coats, coats, bags |
| SP-20 | Combination system, brass and zinc alloy | brass and zinc alloy | 10.5; 11.5; 12.5; 13; 14; 15; 16; 17; 18; 19; 20; 25; 30 mm | yes | coats and trench coats |
| SP-30 | With post and 54 cap | brass | 10.5; 11.5; 12.5; 13; 14; 15; 16; 17; 18; 19; 20; 25; 30 mm | yes | coats, trench coats, leather goods |
| SP-40 | Heavy-duty system with aluminium post | brass, aluminium post | 13; 13.3; 13.5 mm (mini with 54 cap, large with 61 cap) | yes | jackets, denim jackets, trench coats, coats |
| SP-50 | Slim system with 54 cap | brass | 10.85; 10.95; 11 mm | yes | jackets, denim jackets, trench coats, coats |
| SP-60 | With coin-edge toothed cap and post | brass | on request | no | jackets, denim jackets, trench coats, coats |
| SP-70 | Magnetic snap | brass | 12.5; 15; 18 mm (sew-on magnetic: 12, 14, 18 mm) | yes | bags, outerwear, cases, children’s clothing |
| SP-80 | Stainless steel snap | stainless steel | on request | no | jackets, denim jackets, trench coats, coats; products exposed to moisture |
| SP-90 | Heavy-duty system without logo | brass | on request | no | jackets, coats, trench coats |
Magnetic snap buttons – SP-70
SP-70 is a brass magnetic snap in sizes 12.5, 15 and 18 mm, while the sew-on magnetic snaps come in 12, 14 and 18 mm. The two halves attract each other and close by themselves when brought close – without pressure on the product.
Where they are most useful
- bags and cases – the flap closes with one movement and does not require pressing against a hard base;
- outerwear – pocket flaps and collars that need to open quickly;
- children’s clothing – the child can fasten it alone, without force;
- products made of delicate fabric – the sew-on version does not pierce the fabric.
Advantages and limitations
A magnetic snap does not wear from pressure, as it has no spring, and it opens quietly. On the other hand, its holding force under sideways tension is lower than that of a 61 spring system, so it is not suitable for plackets that carry a load. Do not place magnetic snaps right next to places where bank cards or electronic devices will be carried. On children’s clothing, the snap must be attached particularly firmly and checked with a pull test. The magnetic model accepts a logo on the cap.
Stainless steel snap buttons – SP-80
SP-80 is made of stainless steel and is intended for jackets, denim jackets, trench coats and coats, as well as for products exposed to moisture. Sizes are confirmed on request, and the model has no logo.
Brass or stainless steel
Brass is also corrosion resistant and is the main material of most models. Its finish, however, can darken with constant moisture, salt water or aggressive detergents. Stainless steel has no finish that can wear off, and keeps its appearance on:
- raincoats, oilskins and outdoor clothing;
- workwear that is washed often and at high temperatures;
- products for the beach, boats and wet environments;
- cases and covers that stay outdoors.
Combination systems and post models
SP-10 combines a 54-system cap with a stronger bottom part and is available in thirteen sizes from 10.5 to 30 mm. SP-20 is a combination system of brass and zinc alloy with two 54-system caps, intended for coats and trench coats. On SP-30 the bottom part is a post – suitable for leather goods and dense materials. SP-40 is a heavy-duty system with an aluminium post, and SP-50 a slim system with a 54 cap in 10.85–11 mm.
Models with limited finishes
SP-50 and SP-90 are available only in nickel colour and black nickel colour (nickel free), and SP-60 only in nickel colour (nickel free). With these models, plan the collection in these finishes from the very beginning.
Technical applications beyond clothing
For fixing to a rigid base – wood or plastic – and on tarpaulins, covers and upholstery, the H61-70 with screw from the 61 system is used: the stud part is screwed in and does not require a press on the underside. Combined with stainless steel or magnetic snaps, this solves most tasks for cases and technical textiles. For holes and ties on the same products, see the eyelets, and for leather details – the accessories for footwear and leather.
How to choose
- No pressure and quick closing – magnetic SP-70.
- Constant moisture, washing, outdoors – stainless steel SP-80.
- Leather and very dense materials – SP-30 or SP-40 with a post.
- Coats and trench coats with a heavy cap – SP-20.
- A wide choice of caps with a stronger base – SP-10.
Logo and sample
Most special models accept an embossed logo on the metal cap; SP-60, SP-80 and SP-90 have no logo. The techniques are described on the branding page. Polkom offers all the special systems and makes caps with your logo to order. All our metal finishes are nickel free. Send us a description of the product via the contact form – we will suggest a model and a sample. The full range is in the snap buttons category.














