Hook & loop tape, is a type of fastening system that consists of two components: the hook side, which is a rough surface covered with tiny hooks, and the loop side, which is a softer surface covered with small loops. When pressed together, the hooks catch the loops, creating a secure bond that can be easily separated by pulling the two sides apart.
Hook & loop tape was invented in the 1940s by Swiss engineer George de Mestral. Inspired by how burrs stuck to his dog’s fur during a walk in the woods, de Mestral developed a synthetic version of this natural phenomenon. The result was a revolutionary fastener that has found applications in countless industries such as: Clothing/apparel, goods handling, marine sector, medical equipment, military MOD PPE, luggage, outdoor equipment, pet products and accessories, signs & displays, theatre & TV and also transport.
1. Versatility
Hook & loop tape is incredibly versatile, finding uses in everything from clothing and footwear to aerospace and medical equipment. Its adaptability to different materials and ease of use make it a preferred choice for many applications.
2. Ease of Use
One of the primary reasons for the popularity of hook & loop tape is its simplicity. It can be fastened and unfastened quickly and easily, even by those with limited dexterity. This makes it ideal for clothing, especially in children’s wear and adaptive clothing for people with disabilities.
3. Adjustable and Reusable
Unlike zippers or buttons, hook & loop tape can be adjusted to fit different sizes and shapes. It also maintains its fastening ability through many cycles of opening and closing, making it a cost-effective solution for repeated use.
4. Safety
Hook & loop tape is safe to use, as it eliminates the risk of pinching or accidental injury associated with other fasteners like zippers or buttons. This is particularly important in products designed for children or medical applications.
5. Strong and Durable
Despite its simple design, hook & loop tape can create a strong bond capable of holding significant weight. This makes it suitable for heavy-duty applications, such as securing equipment in the military or aviation industries.
6. Customizable
Hook & loop tape comes in various widths, lengths, and colours, allowing it to be tailored to specific needs and aesthetics. It can also be made with different materials to enhance its properties, such as fire resistance or UV protection.
7. The wide range
If you look at companies such as Ace Supplies they stock and supply a variety of different styles of their own brand of Hook & Loop tape named Ripfast. Such as sewable, solo, self-adhesive and elastic.
Hook & loop tape is a simple yet ingenious invention that has revolutionized fastening systems across various industries. Its combination of versatility, ease of use, and durability ensures that it remains a go-to solution for securing, adjusting, and organizing objects in everyday life. Whether you’re a parent fastening your child’s shoes or an astronaut securing equipment in zero gravity, hook & loop tape proves to be an indispensable tool. If you are looking for a supplier of Hook & Loop then look no further than the experts at Ace Supplies, they offer next day delivery, custom tape, military colours and so much more. Ace also supply all the webbing accessories you could ever imagine and they are also trusted distributors for ITW NEXUS, Due Emme Thermoplastics and Fidlock.
