Custom Cord Locks for Apparel, Bags, and Outdoor Gear | WYSE Accessories
The Ultimate Guide to Cord Locks: Functionality and Style in One Small Component
Cord locks, also known as toggles or stoppers, are compact but powerful components widely used in apparel, bags, footwear, and outdoor gear. Though small in size, their role is crucial in providing adjustable fastening, drawstring control, and decorative enhancement. At WYSE, we specialize in custom-designed cord locks that combine premium materials, reliable function, and stylish finishes.
What Is a Cord Lock?
A cord lock is a mechanical device used to secure the position of a drawstring, rope, or cord. Typically made of metal or high-grade plastic, cord locks enable users to adjust tension without tying a knot. They are ideal for hoods, hems, cuffs, bags, masks, and any product with a drawstring mechanism.
Cord locks consist of a housing, internal spring or stopper system, and cord channels. The internal mechanism grips the cord in place when released and can be compressed to allow sliding and adjustment.
Types of Cord Locks
Single-Hole Cord Locks – Simple, elegant, and functional; suitable for lightweight applications and one-cord garments.
Double-Hole Cord Locks – Designed for dual-cord systems; offer greater tension control and visual balance.
Spring-Loaded Cord Locks – Incorporate internal springs for one-handed, automatic adjustment, ideal for performance sportswear and quick-access closures.
Custom-Shaped Cord Locks – Heart-shaped, cube, barrel, or engraved designs to match your brand personality and enhance product identity.
Materials and Finishes
WYSE offers a wide variety of materials and finishes to fit different aesthetics and performance needs:
Zinc Alloy – Durable, solid weight, ideal for high-end fashion and outdoor gear
Aluminum – Lightweight and corrosion-resistant
Plastic (ABS/PP) – Cost-effective, lightweight, and versatile for mass-market goods
Stainless Steel – For industrial strength and long-lasting outdoor performance
Finishing Options:
Electroplating: gold, gunmetal, rainbow, antique bronze
Surface textures: matte, brushed, sandblasted, glossy, carbon-patterned
Branding: laser engraving, embossing, or UV-printing logos
Applications of Cord Locks
Cord locks are used across a wide range of industries and products:
Apparel: Hoodies, windbreakers, down jackets, rainwear, trousers, face masks
Bags & Backpacks: Drawstring closures, quick-release openings, techwear toggles
Footwear: Elastic lace systems and quick-lace toggles for hiking boots and sneakers
Outdoor & Tactical Gear: Tents, sleeping bags, paracord systems, military pouches
Promotional Products: Corded accessories, packaging, lanyards, event gear
Design Considerations for Brands
Choosing the right cord lock involves balancing functionality, aesthetics, and brand positioning. WYSE supports fashion houses, sports brands, and accessory designers in choosing:
Shape and Size – Compact or bold, subtle or statement pieces
Mechanism Type – With or without spring tension, secure hold or easy glide
Color Palette – Trend-based tones, metallic finishes, or custom Pantone matches
Logo Positioning – Branding options integrated seamlessly into the product
Why Choose WYSE Cord Locks?
Custom Mold Development – Tailor-made shapes, logos, and branding
Mass Production & Small Batch Flexibility – Serving both boutique labels and global brands
Eco-Friendly Options – Recyclable metals, RoHS and REACH-compliant finishes
Strict QC – Every batch undergoes tensile, fatigue, corrosion, and plating adhesion testing
Global Reach – Supplying Europe, North America, Japan, and beyond