'Locking' zippers on the Synapse

[notmensa]

Someone commented on the lack of 'lockable' zips on the Synapse. I thought I'd share some ways I've seen to 'lock' zippers on a bag - or rather make the zippers a little harder & more fiddly to open. These aren't failsafe of course, as someone could slash the bag or breach the zippers to get in (watch a scary scary zipper breach video <a href="http://www.telltag.com/zipstop-technology.asp">here</a>!!

(Sorry for the multiple posts - I haven't worked out how to put text between the photos!)


Option 1: Carabineers through the zipper pulls

This is quick and easy. The smaller the carabineer, the better. I’ve used two carabineers:

On the left, thread the carabinner through the zipper pulls for the Left vertical side pocket, water bottle pocket & small front pocket

On the right, thread the carabinner through the zipper pulls for the Right vertical pocket, two zipper pulls for the main pocket

The zips can still be opened slightly, though the other zipper pulls get in the way to make access harder.

[notmensa]

Option 2: Split rings + carabineers


Same principle as above, however each zipper has a split ring, and the carabineer feeds through the split rings.

[notmensa]

Lower pocket on the Synapse


The lower pocket on the Synapse is a little harder to secure since there are no other zipper pulls in the area...

It can be done by making use of the mounting loop for the waist strap. I've used a split ring in mounting loop to make it easier to work with (probably a bigger one than I've used in the photos), and then used either:
- chain of two carabineers
- the Key Strap that comes with the Synapse.

Yes, the zip can still open, but the carabineers or Key Strap partially cover the open zip making it harder to get things out.

[backpack]

I love the C-clips/key strap solution, it is easy to implement and easy to remove for more elegant settings

I use C-clips with all my Tom Bihn bags, it is possible to find the clips in neutral colors such as black and dark blue, I also use straight clips not ribbed ones, less sporty looking.

[Frank II]

Where can I get the c-clips/split rings in black? I've seen them in silver but never any other color.

[backpack]

Where can I get the c-clips/split rings in black? I've seen them in silver but never any other color.

All the split rings I have are silver but I found c-clips in black at harbor freight, I went to a nearby store.

I got this set which has 12 pieces, the two biggest are black

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=45553

This link is for individual C clips

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=47658

I also got small black C clips with strap and rubber ring made to hold a bottle of water, they were in the bulk area next to other C clips.
I don't see them on the website.


I also saw C clips and C clips with straps and split ring at home depot in various size and color.
They usually are in bins next to the key making equipment.

Try other hardware stores, some office stores have them and of course outdoor shops.


I am always on the lookout for them since I got my Tom Bihn bags (2006) and their awesome O-rings to attach the very handy and strong Pouches to Key Straps then key rings and c-clips.

When I know I will be running around, like in airports or train stations, I daisywheel the Key Straps and Pouches Clips into key rings then c-clips and set them up in various O-rings.

So I don't have to worry about losing anything even if I sprint or just walk really fast.

[Frank II]

Sorry....I didn't realize you were calling the carabiners "c" clips. Those I can get plenty of. (I have very small screw type ones that are almost impossible to open with one hand. )

I was talking about the split rings. I wonder if anyone makes them in any color but silver?

[moriond]

Colored split rings for 'locking' zippers solution on the Synapse

Sorry....I didn't realize you were calling the carabiners "c" clips. Those I can get plenty of. (I have very small screw type ones that are almost impossible to open with one hand. )

I was talking about the split rings. I wonder if anyone makes them in any color but silver?

Google is your friend. For different split ring color options try this source or, perhaps their black zinc combination. For smaller quantities, try Googling these terms on ebay, for example "black zinc split rings ebay" gives this option of 25 rings for $6.99, or for the colored split rings, try a search like "red split rings ebay", etc. You should be able to get any of these in approximately 1" diameter sizes.