YKK Introduces YZiP® Light Aluminum Zipper for Cotton Pants

YKK Corporation has launched YZiP® Light, a lightweight aluminum alloy zipper designed for cotton pants, with sales starting in late March 2026. The new zipper reduces weight by approximately 50% compared to conventional YZiP® copper alloy zippers while improving functionality for garments with fabric thicknesses of 0.6 mm or less.

The YZiP® Light features a pressed aluminum slider, utilizing YKK’s proprietary aluminum molding technology. This results in an approximate 50% reduction in weight compared to the YZiP® copper alloy zipper for jeans. Sliding resistance is reduced by about 15%, while lateral pull strength has increased by roughly 26% compared to standard aluminum alloy zippers. The zipper is optimized for cotton pants and similar garments with fabric thicknesses of 0.6 millimeters or less that do not require washing processes.

The pressed aluminum slider achieves similar appearance and performance as the semi-automatic slider used in the copper alloy YZiP® zipper. In addition, YKK has developed coloring technology for aluminum elements, enabling new color options including gold and antique gold, expanding beyond the conventional silver and antique silver finishes.

YZiP® Light is produced as a NATULON® zipper, incorporating recycled materials in the tape. Approximately 25% of a 15-centimeter cut zipper is made from recycled material by weight.

Terry Tsukumo, Senior Vice President, Product Strategy Division, Global Sales Headquarters, YKK Corporation, commented:
“YZiP®, which we developed in 1966, has been beloved by customers all over the world as a zipper for jeans for many years, and is one of the products which has played an important role in YKK’s development into a top global zipper brand. For our newly launched YZiP® Light, we brought together YKK’s technological capability to meet the demands for lightness and maneuverability required by zippers for cotton pants. Through the development of the pressed aluminum slider, YZiP® Light has overcome conventional challenges and achieved a balance of lightweight construction, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. In addition, we are contributing to sustainable manufacturing by promoting the use of the NATULON® zipper–which features tape made from recycled material, while also considering how to reduce our environmental impact. YKK will continue to align with market needs and the values that society demands and promote product development aimed at even greater functional improvements.”