The standard water-resistant zip, as developed by YKK, consists of a normal coil zip (which has no water-resistance at all) with a PU-coated strip on the outside of each half. Although these two PU strips meet in the middle when the zip is done up, a small gap remains between them that is sufficient to let in water. True waterproof clothing designs still have to employ storm flaps that completely cover the zip. Furthermore, the action of the slider moving over the PU tape abrades it, eventually leading to reduced water-resistance and failure.

Riri Aquazips have plastic moulded teeth that mesh and actually form a seal. Even if this seal has only a modest hydrostatic head, it is a significant improvement over the coil zip. Another advantage of the Riri Aquazip is that the slider has no contact with the PU coating support, therefore eliminating any wear and tear through abrasion.

Riri history and expertise

Riri is a Swiss company. Its zips are manufactured in Mendriso, Switzerland and Tirano, Italy. In 1951 Riri invented and patented the plastic tooth zipper and held the patent for twenty years.

Riri zips are best known in the fashion industry, but they also dominate the marine market (e.g. in clothing for sailing). The Riri Aquazip and Extreme zip (a completely submersible waterproof version) evolved out of the company’s technical expertise in this tough and corrosive environment, where plastic teeth zippers have been the norm for decades.