Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who is YKK (U.S.A.) Inc.?
A. We service North and Central America directly or through subsidiaries. See our Contact List for our sales offices and distributors.
In Macon, Georgia, 12 modern plants produce YKK (U.S.A) Inc. zippers in 1,500 styles, in 427 standard colors, and in as many special colors as you need. Aside from zippers, YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. also makes other fastening products--like hook & loop self-closing tape fastening systems and plastic notions and buckles.
Q. What does “YKK” stand for?Q. What does "YKK" stand for?
A. YKK was founded in Japan as a zipper manufacturing company in 1934 by Tadao Yoshida. In the early years, Mr. Yoshida's company carried his name; it was called Yoshida Kogyo Kabushikikaisha or "YKK" for short. Over the years, the letters "YKK" were stamped onto the zippers' pull tabs, and thus YKK became known as the Company's trademark.
Q. My zipper broke! How can I find a replacement?
A. YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. manufactures millions of zippers a day for sale to our customers who produce consumer goods like jeans, tents, luggage, sporting goods, etc. We are not set up to sell one zipper to an individual, so please email us and we will gladly help you find a distributor in your area. Click here
Q. What different parts make up a zipper?
A. Zippers can be divided into three major parts: the tape, the teeth (elements) and the slider. Various materials, sizes and colors are available. Our Structure of Zippersdiagram helps explain.
Q. What are the different kinds of zippers you manufacture?
A. Zippers come in both metal and plastic. They can also be broken down by function. Click here to see specific examples.
Q. Which slider works best for each zipper type?
A. In order to choose the most appropriate slider, it is very important to think about how the slider will be used. Sliders are classified by size, material, locking function, shape of pull-tab and surface treatment. Basic slider information is available here. YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. can provide more detailed information based on our standard slider catalog. We also have many decorate pulls available for you to look at. We can work on a custom solution for your needs.
Q. How do I measure a zipper?
A. Click here to see how to measure a zipper.
Q. How do I maintain my zipper?
A. Taking proper care of a zipper will prolong its life. Careful handling and correct usage protects the zipper and keeps it operating for a long time. We have provided some helpful hints for maintaining a zipper.
Q. What are the standard strengths of your zippers?
A. Click here to see our strength standards and the methods used to determine zipper strength. YKK zippers meet all JIS specifications.
Q. Is there any other zipper information you can give me?
A. Please contact us if we were not able to answer your specific question or the information is not listed below. We have literature for specific products and some industry specific brochures. Thank you for your interest in our products. We look forward to meeting your fastening needs.
Zipper Problems and Solutions
How to Use Open End Zippers
How to Sew a Concealed Zipper (Conceal®) on garments
