The main types of cord locks are round or barrel locks, double-hole locks, single-hole locks, pig-nose locks, mushroom locks, button locks, bead locks and metal spring locks. The best type depends on cord diameter, whether one or two cord ends pass through the body, the required grip and the finished product.
Cord lock type comparison
| Type | Construction | Common applications | What to confirm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Round / barrel | Cylindrical body with an internal spring plunger | Jackets, hoodies, sportswear | Cord diameter and body length |
| Double-hole | Two parallel holes hold two cord ends or a loop | Hood openings, waist drawcords, bags | Spacing between holes and compressed cord thickness |
| Single-hole | One larger passage for one cord or paired ends | Backpacks, technical apparel, thicker cords | Usable hole diameter under spring pressure |
| Pig-nose | Wide oval or tapered face, normally with two holes | Hoodies, casual outerwear, bags | Body width, hole size and hand feel |
| Mushroom | Compact button-like cap above the locking body | Light jackets, childrenswear, compact closures | Cap diameter and required release pressure |
| Button lock | One or two push buttons control the cord passage | Sportswear, bags, visible functional details | Button travel and assembly orientation |
| Bead lock | Small spherical or shaped body used as a stopper or adjuster | Accessories, drawstring packaging, light cords | Whether active spring locking is required |
| Metal spring lock | Metal body or exposed spring component | Premium bags, workwear, technical gear | Finish, corrosion exposure and cord abrasion |
How to match a cord lock to the cord diameter
Do not choose a lock from its outside dimensions alone. Ask for the usable hole diameter while the spring is compressed, then compare it with the finished cord rather than the raw yarn specification.
- Send the finished cord: braided and filled cords compress differently from flat elastic or hollow cord.
- Check one versus two ends: two 4 mm cords do not always fit an 8 mm passage because their cross-sections deform.
- Test grip and release: the lock should hold under normal tension but still release without excessive finger force.
- Test the complete assembly: evaluate the stopper with the actual cord, end tip and garment or bag panel.
Need a model shortlist? Mark a style on our product boards and send the finished cord diameter, color and order quantity.
View wholesale cord stoppersPOM, nylon, ABS or metal: which material should you specify?
| Material family | Why buyers use it | Questions for the quotation |
|---|---|---|
| POM / acetal | Rigid engineering-plastic feel and clean molded detail | Stock color, custom-color MOQ and spring component |
| Nylon | Useful where resilience and lighter weight are priorities | Grade, color matching and heat exposure |
| ABS | Suitable for decorative bodies and plated-look development | Finish method, scratch expectations and end use |
| Metal | Premium appearance and higher perceived hardware value | Base metal, plating, corrosion exposure and cord protection |
Selection by finished product
Hoodies and casual apparel
Round, barrel, pig-nose and compact double-hole locks are common starting points. Confirm how the stopper sits against the hood or waist channel and whether one-handed adjustment matters.
Outdoor jackets and technical apparel
Prioritize grip consistency, glove-friendly operation, cord compatibility and exposure to water, abrasion or temperature changes. Test the lock with the complete drawcord assembly.
Backpacks, luggage and bags
Single-hole reinforced bodies, button locks and larger double-hole models can suit thicker cords. Check that the stopper does not damage the cord covering during repeated adjustment.
Childrenswear and drawstring products
Product-specific safety rules may restrict drawstrings or attached components. Confirm the destination market, garment type and buyer protocol before selecting a stopper.
Wholesale cord lock RFQ checklist
- Preferred model number or marked product-board image.
- Finished cord diameter and whether one or two ends pass through the lock.
- Application: hoodie, jacket, bag, footwear, packaging or technical gear.
- Material preference, body color and any logo or custom-mold requirement.
- Quantity per style and color, plus target sample and bulk timing.
- Destination market and any retailer testing protocol.
- Loose parts or a pre-assembled cord, stopper and cord-end set.
Common buyer questions
Is a cord stopper the same as a cord lock?
In apparel and bag sourcing, the terms are usually interchangeable. “Cord lock” often emphasizes the spring-locking function, while “cord stopper” can also include simpler beads and end-stopping shapes.
Which cord lock is best for a hoodie?
A compact round, barrel, pig-nose or double-hole model is a practical starting point. The final choice depends on the hood construction, cord diameter, desired appearance and buyer safety requirements.
Can a supplier select the model from a tech pack?
Yes, but a finished cord sample or accurate cord diameter makes the recommendation more reliable. Include a product photo and mark whether the stopper is visible or hidden in a channel.
Ready to compare cord-lock samples?
Send the model, cord diameter, application, color and quantity. We will confirm the appropriate sample and quotation route.
Request cord-lock samples