YKK
Union of Strength and Innovation:
Why Mark Ryden Uses YKK Hardware
The YKK company philosophy is captured in the simple phrase “Small details. Big difference.” And it’s not just a slogan — it perfectly aligns with the mission of the Mark Ryden brand: to create stylish items that last for years, withstand daily stress, and retain their appearance and functionality in any conditions. At Mark Ryden, there are no minor details in the production of urban backpacks and bags. Every element — from materials to the smallest fastener — affects durability, convenience, and the overall user experience. That’s why Mark Ryden pays special attention to hardware, choosing not just high-quality solutions, but the best on the market. One such strategic choice was the partnership with YKK — the global leader in zippers and fastening elements.
At Mark Ryden, we strive to offer customers not just stylish and functional accessories, but products that embody impeccable quality. That’s why in the production of backpacks and bags we use original YKK hardware, which has become the gold standard of reliability in the textile and fashion industry.
YKK — Zippers Trusted Worldwide
- 1.Unmatched Strength and Longevity
YKK zippers are manufactured using patented technologies and undergo multi-stage quality control. They are designed for thousands of open/close cycles without losing smoothness or strength. - 2.Smooth Operation and Precision Engineering
One of YKK’s key advantages is flawless performance. In every Mark Ryden backpack, the zipper works effortlessly, precisely, and without jamming — even after prolonged use, exposure to dust, moisture, or cold. - 3.Resistance to Stress and Weather Conditions
YKK hardware is renowned for withstanding:
high humidity
temperature fluctuations
intense physical loads
That’s why our backpacks remain fully functional during travel, city life, sports, and everyday situations.
Experience and Environmental Responsibility of YKK
Today it’s important to choose not only durable materials but also responsible manufacturers. YKK (Yoshida Kogyo Kabushikikaisha), founded in 1934 in Japan, operates over 70 factories worldwide. The company achieved success through strict quality control and technological innovation.
Today YKK continuously invests in:
- reducing energy consumption in production
- material recycling
- minimizing waste and carbon footprint
- developing eco-friendly product lines
Thanks to the incredible durability of the hardware, the need for repairs or replacements is reduced, thereby lowering the environmental impact throughout the product’s lifecycle.
YKK Sustainability Vision 2050
Responsible Hardware for Mark Ryden Backpacks
By 2050, YKK aims to achieve carbon neutrality and contribute to a sustainable circular economy by focusing on five key areas.
Climate Action
- –50% CO₂ emissions (Scope 1 & 2 according to international classification) by 2030
- –30% Scope 3 emissions by 2030
- Phase-out of coal-based production by 2030
- Carbon neutrality by 2050
- Transition to renewable energy sources
Why it matters: Reducing the carbon footprint across the entire production and supply chain.
Material Responsibility
- 100% sustainable materials by 2030
- Elimination of virgin plastic packaging
- Up to 90% waste recycling at production facilities
- Products designed in line with circular economy principles
Why it matters: Less plastic, less waste, and longer product life cycles.
Water Stewardship
- Reduction of water consumption
- Reuse and treatment of wastewater
- Strict wastewater control at all factories
- Compliance with governmental regulations and internal YKK standards
Why it matters: Protection of local water resources.
Chemical Safety
- Controlled use of chemical substances
- Reduction of hazardous components
- Compliance with ZDHC MRSL standards
- Product certification according to OEKO-TEX®️ Standard 100
Why it matters: Safe products for consumers and the environment.
Respect for People
- Respect for human rights and inclusivity principles
- Safe and fair working conditions
- Regular independent audits
- Transparent supply chain control
Why it matters: Ethical manufacturing and social responsibility.
Deep-Integrated Partnership
We don’t just purchase YKK zippers — we design backpack constructions with their specific characteristics in mind. Every Mark Ryden model is engineered so the zipper system works perfectly:
- properly tensioned fixation zones
- reinforced edges
- carefully calculated angles
- testing under heavy-load scenarios
This guarantees stable performance even after years of active use.
Our Commitment to Quality
YKK hardware in Mark Ryden products is one of those key elements that turns an accessory into a reliable lifelong companion — in daily life, travel, and work. Every backpack and every bag from us combines:
- creative and thoughtful design
- high-tech materials
- innovative solutions
- attention to the smallest details
This is how we create stylish and functional products that stand the test of time.