Why KicKee Chooses YKK: Quality, Safety, and Sustainability You Can Trust
At KicKee, every detail of our production matters. From our buttery-soft bamboo fabrics to the adorable prints you love, we obsess over quality and comfort. But there’s one detail you might not think about that plays a big role in the safety and durability of our clothing: the trims. Specifically, our zippers and snaps.
That’s why we proudly partner with YKK, the world’s leading manufacturer of zippers and fastening products.
Who is YKK?
If you’ve ever looked closely at a zipper, chances are you’ve seen the letters “YKK” stamped on the pull tab. That’s because YKK (short for Yoshida Kogyo Kabushikikaisha) is the global leader in fastening solutions, producing zippers, snaps, and other closures for apparel, luggage, automotive, and industrial uses. Founded in Japan in 1934, YKK is known around the world for its commitment to innovation, quality, and reliability. Their trims are used by top fashion and outdoor brands who demand the best — and KicKee is no exception.
Safety First
When it comes to baby and children’s clothing, safety is non-negotiable and the same is true for our adults line! YKK products undergo rigorous safety testing to ensure they meet and exceed international standards. Their snaps are tested for secure attachment and strength, while zippers are designed with smooth glides and rounded edges to protect delicate skin. We even provide YKK with samples of all of our styles to check the security and placement of the snaps! This is a requirement to use YKK products and ensures that not only can YKK stand behind the use of their product, but we can confidently bring new styles to the market knowing they have been tested for safety.
Trims can be surprisingly expensive and while draw of inexpensive trims may save money on each piece, they are far more likely to pose choking hazards, pinch fingers, discolor, or break under stress — risks we refuse to take.
Consistent Quality
Every YKK product is manufactured to the highest standards, ensuring flawless performance time after time. Their vertically integrated production process means they control every step — from raw materials to final assembly — ensuring unmatched consistency. This is the same process that KicKee uses in our end-to-end manufacturing, so we feel confident working with trims that are produced in this same way.
For our customers, that means our trim quality ensures:
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No stuck zippers
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No rusting or discoloration
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Snaps that snap (and stay snapped)
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Trims that hold up through countless washes
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No stuck zippers
Built to Last
We are not in the business of fast fashion, so KicKee clothing is made to be worn, washed, loved, and handed down. YKK trims support that vision by being incredibly durable. Whether it’s a footie worn every night for months or a romper passed from sibling to sibling, YKK zippers and snaps help ensure our garments stay functional and beautiful over time.
Commitment to Sustainability
YKK is also a leader in environmentally responsible manufacturing. The company continuously works to reduce water and energy use across its global operations. In fact, YKK’s corporate philosophy, “Cycle of Goodness,” reflects their belief that no one prospers without considering the well-being of others — a value we deeply share at KicKee.
Why KicKee Chooses YKK
At KicKee, we’re committed to crafting garments that are as safe, functional, and long-lasting whether it’s a newborn gift, or your favorite cozy robe. That’s why we partner with YKK for all our trims. While lower-cost alternatives exist, we believe your family deserves better — trims that hold up to life’s adventures, feel good to use, and never compromise on safety.
Our dedication is to the families we serve: Quality you can feel. Safety you can trust. That’s our promise.
