Hook and Loop 101: Insights from The Pioneers
Everything You need to know about the iconic fastening system from the original creators at Velcro Companies.
What Is a Hook and Loop Fastener?
Hook and loop is an innovative fastening system that can adhere, attach and secure a wide range of applications. The fastener has two sides that link to form a strong bond. One side features tiny hooks, while the other has nylon loops.
This revolutionary technology has spread across various industries thanks to its versatility, adaptability and ease of use. You may know it from sneakers, diaper tabs and blood pressure bands, among many other applications.
Velcro Companies are proud to be the innovators behind the original hook and loop fastener. Although our products consist of hook and loop, not all hook and loop products are from the VELCRO® Brand.
How does hook and loop work?
Hook and loop fasteners work by interlocking tiny hooks on one side with loops on the other side. Inspired by the shape of burdock burrs, the hooks catch onto the loops to form a secure connection. You disengage the fasteners by pulling apart the hooks from the loops.
Initially made from nylon, the product has advanced with technology, allowing us to adapt the fastener according to the application.
Here’s a microscopic look at both sides of our hook and loop tape.
Types of Hook and Loop
There are many different types of hook and loop closures, and through ORIGINAL THINKING®, these designs continue to evolve. Construction can vary in size, shape, profile, and strength, and adapt to different uses.
Variations of VELCRO® Brand Fasteners
The History of Hook and Loop
Our story began in 1941 when Swiss engineer George de Mestral noticed burrs sticking to his dog’s fur on a walk in the woods. Curious about how they worked, he created a fastening system that copied this natural hook design. He named his invention “Velcro,” a mix of the French words “velours” (velvet) and “crochet” (hook).
De Mestral’s genius idea quickly took off and was adopted by many industries, including aerospace. In fact, NASA utilized it during the Apollo missions.
Industries
Velcro Companies is all about inspiring creativity and innovation. For decades, we’ve partnered with businesses to craft custom solutions.
Industrial Uses of VELCRO® Brand Fasteners
For more than 40 years, VELCRO® Brand fasteners have transformed medical care. Our technology is critical in tourniquet straps, wearable monitors, orthopedic braces and many other medical devices.
VELCRO® Brand Personal Care Solutions offers superior softness for babies, diapers, feminine care and adult incontinence products.
We help manufacturers simplify assembly, improve ergonomics and lower production costs. Discover our product on airplane seats, acoustic thermal insulation and more.
VELCRO® Brand fasteners serve various industries and applications, including furniture, signage and Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO).
Our hook and loop fasteners have become synonymous with children’s footwear. We also collaborate with those creating outdoor gear products for the harshest conditions.
Trusted by the US military and government for over 50 years, you can find our hook and loop on backpacks, knee pads, patches and more.
Our solutions help improve productivity and safety while minimizing chemical use. One example is creating fasteners for permanent fixtures like solar panels.
From cereal packets to materials handling, our sustainable and reusable packaging solutions come in all shapes and sizes.
Hook and Loop in Everyday Life
VELCRO® Brand products offer solutions not only to businesses but also to consumers.
- Shoes
- Cable ties
- Plant ties
- DIY supplies
- Crafting
Ready for hook and loop to transform your business?
Our team would love to talk to you and see how our ORIGINAL THINKING® can provide solutions for your business.