How to recognize a slider?
All are almost the same. But when we take a look a little closer we can recognize easily what kind of zip they match.
We have to look at the side of the slider where is located the groove of the tape. For each type of zip, this groove has a different position. This is the main feature that helps to recognize the type of slider.
Another important thing is how to recognize the size of the zip. This may be sometimes tricky. The general rule is the size= width of closed zip tape, but unfortunately, this rule doesn't work in all cases, and the zip slider has to be put on the zip tape and checked whether it works. Very often problems are with waterproof sliders, but other types may be difficult to match too. Some zips are made for a specific collection of garments and replacements don't exist.
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ZIP SLIDERS FOR CHUNKY ZIP
This type of slider is available in many designs and colors, but we have to focus on the side view of the slider.
The zip slider for chunky zip has a groove in the middle of the slider
Chunky sliders are manufactured in sizes: #3, #5, #8, #10
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ZIP SLIDERS FOR METAL ZIPS
The zip slider for metal zip has a groove in the middle of the slider, its look is similar to the chunky slider
Zip sliders for metal zips are manufactured in sizes: #3, #4 ( metal jean zips) #5, #7, #8, #10
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ZIP SLIDER FOR COIL ZIP ( PLASTIC NYLON)
This type of slider is the most popular, it is manufactured in a wide range of designs, colors, and sizes.
The zip tape groove in that type of slider is located on the bottom of the slider.
Coil zip sliders are manufactured in the following sizes: #3, #5, #7, #8, #10
They are also two types of coil sliders:
AUTO LOCK slider - inside has a special mechanism that locks the slider and does not allow for sliding it. Produced in all types and thicknesses zips
NONLOCK slider - does not have inside a special mechanism that locks the slider on zip tape. Often used for bags, and tents. Produced in all types and thicknesses zips
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ZIP SLIDER FOR WATERPROOF ZIPS
The zip tape groove in that type of slider is located on the top of the slider. This type of zip is called also inverse coil zip, as zip teeth are inverse to nylon zip.
The waterproof zip slider is manufactured in a limited color range, nickel, black, sport design
Waterproof zip sliders are manufactured in the following sizes: #3, #5, #7, #8, #10
They are also two types of waterproof sliders:
AUTO LOCK slider - inside has a special mechanism that locks the slider and does not allow for sliding it. Produced in all types and thicknesses zips
NONLOCK slider - does not have inside a special mechanism that locks the slider on zip tape. Often used for bags, and tents. Produced in all types and thicknesses zips
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REVERSIBLE ZIP SLIDER
The reversible zip slider has a puller that, can be moved from one side or the other side of the slider. It is often used for sports garments, outdoor clothes, tents, or other specific appliances.
This type of slider is mainly manufactured in size 5 and two types, nylon coil or inverse and chunky
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DOUBLE PULLER ZIP SLIDER
The double-puller zip slider has pullers on both sides. The zip can be opened from both sides.
Often used for reversible sport and outdoor clothing, tents. This slider is manufactured mainly in sizes: #5 , #8