YKK's 3D-printed snap cap named Best Product at ISPO Textrends

Japanese fastener manufacturer YKK has received two recognitions in the accessories category of ISPO Textrends, which selects performance textiles, components and apparel twice a year in connection with the ISPO trade fair in Amsterdam.

YKK's 3D Printed Snap Cap was named Best Product, while its Revived Replacement Elements for Vislon AquaGuard zippers were chosen as an ISPO Textrends Selection.

A snap made without moulds

The 3D Printed Snap Cap combines YKK's snap manufacturing with the on-demand 3D printing system of Variloom. According to YKK, the process removes the need for conventional moulds and minimum order quantities, and allows complex textures and details that are difficult to achieve with traditional production methods.

The insert is made with a bio-based wood composite from Finnish materials company Sulapac, combined with cotton fibres and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Based on Sulapac's specifications, more than 55 percent of the snap cap insert is bio-based. The snap is a concept product, and YKK has not yet decided whether it will be sold commercially.

Repairing zippers element by element

The Revived Replacement Elements allow only the damaged or missing elements of a Vislon AquaGuard zipper to be replaced, rather than the whole zipper. YKK says the solution is designed to make repairs at brand repair centres more efficient and reduce the amount of zipper waste.

An earlier version for standard Vislon zippers won an iF Design Award last year. The AquaGuard version is scheduled to go on sale in January 2027.

"We are truly honored by these awards, which we see as recognition of YKK's commitment to innovation," said Yasuhiro Sato, senior vice president of the product strategy division at YKK's global sales headquarters.