In this article
How wide is a Size 5 zipper?
You will often read that "Size 5 means 5 mm", but that is only approximate. Size 5 metal zippers usually measure between 5 and 6 mm. Exact millimetres vary slightly and are confirmed on a sample. Our zipper size guide explains the logic.
Where is a Size 5 zipper used?
| Product | Common type | End type |
|---|---|---|
| Jeans | Metal | Closed-end |
| Jackets | Coil, metal, molded plastic | Open-end |
| Coats | Molded plastic, coil, metal | Open-end |
| Bags | Coil, metal | Closed-end, two-way |
| Home textiles | Coil, continuous chain | Closed-end or cut |
Metal or nylon?
A Size 5 metal zipper stands out on denim, leather and visible design details. A Size 5 nylon coil is lighter and more flexible, and works well on jackets, bags and home textiles. Molded plastic is also common on outerwear.
Is Size 5 the same as No. 5?
Yes. The size follows the international size number: Size 5 = No. 5 = #5. Exact millimetres vary slightly and are confirmed on a sample.
Checklist before ordering
- Chain type: metal, coil or molded plastic
- End type: closed-end or open-end
- Slider: auto-lock, semi-lock or non-lock
- Length and tape colour
- Finish, for metal zippers
Which slider suits a Size 5 zipper?
- Jeans: Semi-lock sliders are common.
- Jackets and coats: Auto-lock sliders, which lock when released, are often preferred.
- Bags: Non-lock sliders suit openings used often.
Chain type matters as much as size. A Size 5 coil slider does not fit a Size 5 metal chain.
Size 5 compared with Sizes 3 and 8
| Size | Class | When to choose |
|---|---|---|
| Size 3 | Light | Thin fabric, dresses, skirts |
| Size 5 | Medium | Most everyday garments and bags |
| Size 8 | Medium-heavy | Heavy coats, large bags, boots |
When in doubt, look at fabric thickness and load. On thin fabric a Size 5 can look bulky, while on a heavy bag it may not be enough.
Choosing a finish for Size 5 metal
The finish sets the zipper's character. Brass and antique brass are popular on denim, nickel on light products, and gunmetal or black oxide on black products. Test first if the product will be washed or dyed, as some chemicals can change the metal's colour.
How to test with a sample
- Sew the sample onto your own fabric.
- Open and close it repeatedly to check the glide.
- Check that the lock holds.
- If the product will be washed, apply the same process to the sample.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Size 5 zipper used for?
It is widely used on jeans, jackets, coats, bags, leather goods and home textiles.
Do jeans use a Size 5 zipper?
Size 5 is common on standard jeans flies. Size 4.5 is also used on lighter denim and women's trousers.
Are Size 5 nylon and Size 5 metal the same width?
They can be close but need not be identical. Width can vary slightly by type and is confirmed on a sample.
Does a Size 5 coil slider fit a Size 5 metal zipper?
No. A slider must match both the size and the chain type.
