Manufacturer · Fashion & Home Accessories
YKK zippers are divided into product lines based on the material and chain construction: metal (including the premium Excella line), moulded plastic Vislon, concealed Conceal, and coil zippers. Each line has its own sizes, sliders and finishes, designed for different products – from jeans and dresses to ski jackets and backpacks.
If you are selecting YKK zippers for a collection, first choose the line. Size, colour and slider type are specified afterwards. Here is a brief and practical overview.
Types of YKK Zippers at a Glance
| Line | Chain | Strengths | Typical Products |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal | metal teeth (brass, aluminium, nickel colour and others) | durability, classic look | jeans, jackets, bags |
| Excella | polished metal teeth | luxurious appearance, smoothness | leather, high-end outerwear |
| Vislon | moulded plastic teeth | lightweight, moisture and cold resistant | sports and outdoor jackets, backpacks |
| Conceal | concealed coil | invisible seam | dresses, skirts, trousers |
| Coil | nylon coil | flexibility, lightness, easy sewing | everyday wear, bags, home textiles |
Metal YKK Zippers
The metal line is the classic that made the brand famous. The teeth are stamped from metal wire and attached to the tape. Various alloys and finishes are available – from natural brass and antique to nickel colour (nickel free) and dark oxidised tones. These zippers withstand heavy use and frequent washing, making them dominant for jeans, work trousers, jackets and bags.
Excella – the Premium Metal Zipper
Excella is YKK’s premium metal line, meeting the demands of the luxury segment. Each tooth is specially shaped and polished, resulting in a smooth, jewel-like chain. It is used for leather jackets, women's bags and high-end outerwear where the zipper is a visible design feature. More about metal models in the YKK metal zippers category.
Vislon – YKK’s Moulded Plastic Zippers
Vislon zippers have teeth moulded directly onto the tape from plastic. The result is a lightweight and strong chain that does not corrode, freeze or jam when wearing gloves. This line is standard for ski and snowboard clothing, outdoor jackets, backpacks and sacks. Teeth can be in a contrasting colour to the tape, allowing design contrasts. See YKK moulded Vislon zippers.
Conceal – Invisible Zippers
Conceal zippers have the coil turned to the inside, and the tapes folded so that only the seam is visible from the outside when closed. Suitable for dresses, skirts, women's trousers and formal wear where the zipper should not disrupt the garment’s line. Sewing requires a special foot for invisible zippers. Models are in the YKK concealed zippers category.
Coil YKK Zippers
Coil zippers feature a continuous nylon coil sewn or woven into the tape. They are the most flexible, easily bending along curves and sewn quickly, making them the most popular choice for everyday clothing, sweatshirts, pockets, cushions and covers. Some versions have water-repellent tape coatings for technical apparel. More in YKK coil zippers.
How to Choose the Line
- Load – heavy jackets, backpacks and workwear require metal or moulded zippers with larger sizes.
- Wearing conditions – moisture, snow and salt favour Vislon or coil zippers.
- Appearance – for visible luxury accents choose Excella; for invisible zippers choose Conceal.
- Flexibility – coil zippers are best for curved seams and soft fabrics.
- Weight – metal zippers are heavier; choose coil or moulded for light garments.
- Positioning and budget – premium lines cost more; choose according to the final product price.
Sizes in Each Line
Each line is offered in several chain sizes, indicated by numbers – for example No. 3, No. 5, No. 8 or No. 10. The number roughly corresponds to the width of the closed chain in millimetres: the larger the number, the bigger the teeth and the higher the load capacity. Small sizes are for light blouses, dresses and pockets; medium for trousers, sweatshirts and jackets; large for heavy outerwear, backpacks and luggage. Not every line offers all sizes; Conceal mainly uses small sizes. Size selection is always made together with line choice.
End Types – Same for All Lines
Regardless of line, every YKK zipper is also defined by its end type:
- Closed-end – for trousers, skirts, pockets and bags;
- Open-end – halves separate completely, for jackets and vests;
- Two-way – with two sliders, for long jackets, parkas and sleeping bags.
The full specification for ordering is “line + size + type + length + colour + slider”.
Availability and Ordering
Not every combination of line, size, colour and finish is stocked. Some items are made to order, so lead times are confirmed with each inquiry. Colour is specified by YKK colour card number, not by screen photo. The full brand overview is in the YKK zippers category.
YKK Zippers via Polkom
Polkom is a Bulgarian manufacturer of accessories for fashion, furniture, footwear and bags. YKK is a third-party brand – we supply original YKK zippers to brands and manufacturers in Bulgaria and the EU and advise on line, size and colour. Send a request with your product and specifications; if the brand is not required, we can also offer a suitable zipper from our general range.
