Zippers
Trims & Care · 7 specs
Direct Answer
Zipper sizing standards under ASTM D2061 and ISO 28219 classify zippers by the physical width of the closed interlocking teeth (chain) in millimeters. Designated as #3 (4.5 mm), #5 (6.0 mm), #8 (7.5 mm), and #10 (10.0 mm), zipper chains are built in Nylon Coil, Molded Vislon Plastic, and Clamped Metal styles.
Source: ASTM D2061-07 / ISO 28219:2009 / YKK Technical Standards · Last reviewed Aug 28, 2026
Specs
| Governing Standards | ASTM D2061 / ISO 28219 / BS 3084 |
| #3 Zipper Chain Width | 4.0 to 4.5 mm (0.16–0.18") | Dresses, interior pockets, cushion covers |
| #5 Zipper Chain Width | 5.8 to 6.0 mm (0.23–0.24") | Universal jacket front, jeans, hoodies, backpacks |
| #8 Zipper Chain Width | 7.5 to 8.0 mm (0.30–0.31") | Heavy winter parkas, motorcycle jackets, duffels |
| #10 Zipper Chain Width | 10.0 to 10.5 mm (0.39–0.41") | Heavy luggage, tents, marine boat canvas |
| Chain Constructions | Nylon Spiral Coil (CFC) | Molded Vislon Plastic (POM) | Clamped Metal Teeth (M) |
| Slider Lock Mechanisms | Auto-Lock (clothing) | Non-Lock (luggage) | Pin-Lock | Reversible |
Zipper Tooth Gauge Sizing Chart
| Gauge Number | Closed Chain Width (mm) | Closed Width (Inches) | Primary Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| #3 | 4.0–4.5 mm | 0.16"–0.18" | Dress side zips, skirt flies, pillow covers, jacket interior pockets |
| #5 | 5.8–6.0 mm | 0.23"–0.24" | Universal Standard: Jacket center fronts, jeans, hoodies, backpacks |
| #8 | 7.5–8.0 mm | 0.30"–0.31" | Insulated winter coats, heavy leather motorcycle gear, duffel bags |
| #10 | 10.0–10.5 mm | 0.39"–0.41" | Extreme-duty gear, military tents, wetsuits, marine boat canvas |
Coil vs Vislon vs Metal Zipper Selection
- Nylon Coil: Flexible and continuous spiral teeth; self-healing if forced out of alignment.
- Vislon Plastic (Polyacetal): Molded resin teeth; lightweight and 100% resistant to saltwater corrosion.
- Metal: Clamped brass, antique nickel, or aluminum teeth; rugged classic aesthetic for denim and leather.