Lanyards: which clip is for you?

Karabiner, Snap Swivel or perhaps an Alligator? 

We often get people calling up wanting lanyards but when we ask ‘what type of clip are you after?’ this invariably leads to a very confusing conversation that sounds something like ‘ you know the one with the bit that you pull down and clip on‘ or, ‘the metal one with the clippy thing at the end‘. Trying to describe the different styles of clips can be a confusing and frustrating!

So here is a quick reference guide to the different types of clips and attachments we offer here at ID Online as options for your custom printed lanyards or unprinted/plainand pre-printed lanyards.

Karabiner Clip

This style of clip differs from the karabiner/carabineer clip that is often referred to in rock climbing. It does not possess the same screw lock mechanism, instead it features a pull down clip that is easy to open and close. It is our most popular type of clip, as they are extremely durable, feature a superior swivel head and will clip onto any card holder, key rings and mobile phone attachments.

Alligator Clip

This style of clip is named as such because it resemble the mouth of a crocodile/ alligator. They have a top and bottom section that meet in the middle with ridges similar to that of teeth that hold your object in place. The alligator clip is ideal for attaching card holders to your lanyard, as it sits flat in a slot punch hole.

Snap Swivel

This is the most basic option available, simply apply pressure to the side of the clip and it opens for you to attach keys, card holders or mobile phone attachments. It also has a swivel function, allowing the clip to rotate 360 degrees. The snap swivel clip doesn’t open and close as easily as the karabiner or alligator clips, so it is a great option for attaching to something that does not need to be removed regularly.

Safety Breakaway

A safety breakaway is an additional feature that can be added to your lanyard to assist with your health and safety requirements, as it releases when pulled or caught and can be easily reattached. For example, if you lanyard happens to get snagged on a door handle the safety breakaway will automatically open and let the lanyard free from the users neck, eliminating the chocking hazard.

Detachable Buckle

The detachable buckle is a great addition to any lanyard where as it allows you to unclip the front part of your lanyard to use your keys or swipe a card and then clip back after use, all without removing the lanyard from around your neck.

 Split Ring

A split ring can be added to any of the above clips as a secondary place to attach keys, an additional clip or card holder or a mobile phone attachment. They come in a range of sizes to suit your needs.