Tricks of the Trade: Reverse Coil Zippers

Trending style of zippers for outdoor backpacks and gear have the zipper teeth hidden in the inside of the bag. Popularized by YKK Aquaguard zippers, the same reverse coil zipper pulls can be used on regular continuous coil zipper tape.

[@louparsons]

Quick and informative, thanks. YVR

[@photooutdoor2574]

There IS a functional difference! The inverted method is much more problematic in tight corners. In longtherm the inverted zippers will be damaged much quicker. (Seen on many Backpacks)

[@LearnMYOG]

Interesting point. I can imagine a tight curve where the teeth are compressed together would make it hard to open and increase wear. But I’m also thinking that tight a curve would be hard to operate the zipper in either orientation.

[@photooutdoor2574]

@@LearnMYOGYes, that’s correct, but a small EDC pouch for example with a 3cm radius in the corners is enough to destroy an inverted zipper over time. Seen on many professional brands. You can feel the higher tension of the coil when you roll it in the different ways.