The Ultimate Guide to Closures in Activewear: Zippers, Drawstrings, Snaps & More
The Ultimate Guide to Closures in Activewear: Zippers, Drawstrings, Snaps & More
In this blog, we're focusing on a topic that’s near and dear to every sportswear designer's heart—closures! If you’ve been wondering about the best ways to secure and finish your garments, whether it’s zippers, drawstrings, snaps, or something more technical, you’re in the right place. Closures can make or break the functionality and overall look of your products.
You’re not alone if you find yourself geeking out about these nitty-gritty elements. We all know that it’s these precise choices that elevate a garment’s quality and usability, making it more than just a piece of clothing but an essential part of someone’s workout or adventure.
So, in this guide, we're going to break down everything you need to know about closures in sportswear—types, materials, mechanisms, and how to make the best choice for your designs. Whether you're creating performance wear, casual pieces, or outerwear, mastering closures is a game-changer. Let's get started!
What are Closures in Activewear and Why Do They Matter?
Closures in sportswear are the mechanisms that allow you to fasten, adjust, and customize the fit of your garments. From zippers that keep jackets secure to drawstrings that cinch your waistband for a perfect fit, closures are key to the functionality, aesthetics, and overall user experience. Here’s an overview of the most common types of closures used in activewear:
Zippers: Versatility, Durability, and Functionality
Zippers are the most widely used closures in activewear for their ease of use and versatility. They can be found on everything from jackets to pants to accessories like bags.
Types of Zippers:
Nylon Coil Zippers: Lightweight, cost-effective, and widely used in sportswear. Great for most athletic pieces.
Plastic Molded Zippers: Bulkier, more durable, and typically seen on outerwear or accessories.
Metal Zippers: High-durability zippers, often used for premium products or accessories like bags and denim.
Mechanisms:
Closed-End Zipper: Stops at the end, often used in quarter zips.
Open-End Zipper: Allows for full separation, ideal for jackets or backpacks.
Two-Way Zipper: Can be zipped both up and down, great for outerwear like ski jackets.
Press Buttons & Snaps: Secure and Stylish
Press buttons and snap closures are perfect for certain sportswear applications, such as waistbands or pocket flaps. They are durable and come in various designs, such as visible or hidden snaps.
Types of Press Snap Buttons:
Exposed Snap Buttons: Visible on the garment, adding a sleek touch.
Hidden Snap Buttons: Discreetly embedded within the flap for a cleaner look.
Magnetic Snap Buttons: Used for premium, high-end designs or accessories.
Why Choose Press Snaps?
Snaps provide a secure and durable fastening system, especially for areas of the garment that need extra reinforcement, like waistbands or pockets.
Drawstrings: Adjustability and Comfort
Drawstrings are an essential feature in activewear, particularly for waistbands and adjustable cuffs. Their function is to give the wearer full control over fit and comfort.
Types of Drawstrings:
Outer-Mounted Drawstrings: Exit from the outside of the waistband, typically used in looser garments like sweatpants.
Inner-Mounted Drawstrings: Exit from inside the waistband, creating a cleaner and more streamlined look, especially for compression wear or fitted pieces.
Convertible Waistband: Drawstrings with two sets of eyelets, allowing the user to choose between inner or outer mounting.
Drawstring Materials: Cotton (for casual wear) vs. Polyester (for performance-oriented pieces).
Customization: With options like flat or round profiles and reflective threads (like 3M), you can elevate both the aesthetic and functionality of your drawstrings.
Toggles & Cords: Fine-Tuned Fit
Toggles and cords are fantastic for making micro-adjustments to garments, especially outerwear. These systems are commonly found in jackets or hoods where you need to adjust the fit on the fly.
How Toggles Work:
Toggles and cords are often used in conjunction with a spring-loaded adjuster. Pulling the cord tightens or loosens the fit.
Why Choose Toggles & Cords?
They are ideal for outerwear or technical garments where you need to make quick, precise adjustments—perfect for active outdoor wear like skiing, hiking, or cycling.
Hook and Loop (Velcro): The Tried-and-True Fastening
The classic hook-and-loop system, often referred to by the brand name "Velcro," is commonly used for wrist cuffs, ski jackets, and other areas where quick adjustments are needed.
Why Velcro?
Velcro closures are highly adjustable, easy to use, and allow for quick on-and-off. They're perfect for athletes who need to adjust clothing quickly during high-intensity activities.
Miscellaneous Closures: Innovative Fasteners for the Modern Athlete
Lastly, let’s touch on some lesser-known but innovative fasteners that are gaining traction in sportswear design.
Pull Tab Fasteners:
These systems, which you often find on formal pants, are making their way into techwear and sportswear for a minimalist aesthetic. They offer the ability to make micro-adjustments to waistbands without the bulk of traditional drawstrings or toggles.
Elastic Waistbands with Adjustable Clips:
Popular in kids' clothing and gaining attention in adult sportswear for their ability to provide a customizable fit without visible closures.
Conclusion: How to Choose the Right Closure for Your Activewear
The closure system you select will significantly impact both the functionality and aesthetic of your garment. When designing sportswear, always consider your product’s purpose, the desired fit, and the customer’s needs. Whether it’s the durability of a high-quality zipper, the adjustability of drawstrings, or the minimalism of pull-tab fasteners, every closure option has its place.
For sportswear designers, exploring new fastener systems can offer an opportunity to create unique, functional, and stylish garments that stand out in a crowded market. I encourage you to experiment with different closures, materials, and mechanisms to see what best suits your designs.
About FittDesign
FittDesign is a full-service design and production company specializing in the sportswear and activewear industry. We provide comprehensive solutions, including innovative design, detailed technical packs, and high-quality manufacturing. Our expertise supports brands in creating functional and durable sportswear that meets the demands of a competitive market.
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