Zugbänder

Zugbänder are cords or straps designed to tighten, secure, or apply tension by pulling. The term combines ziehen (to pull) and Band (band). In everyday German, Zugband often refers to drawstrings on clothing and bags, but the word is also used more broadly for lightweight tensioning straps in various contexts.

In textiles, Zugbänder are most commonly seen as drawstrings in hoodies, jackets, sweatpants, and bags. They typically pass through channels or casings, may end in tips called aglets, and are made from materials such as cotton, polyester, or other synthetics. Drawstrings enable adjustable closure and can include stoppers to maintain the desired tension.

Beyond apparel, Zugbänder can describe lightweight straps used to tighten or secure items in consumer products, packaging, or upholstery. For heavier or more demanding securing tasks, other terms are more common in German, such as Zurrbänder (tie-down straps) or Spanngurte (load-securing ratchet straps). Terminology thus varies by industry, application, and country.

Materials used for Zugbänder range from natural fibers to synthetic polymers, including cotton, polyester, polypropylene, or elastic variants. Design considerations typically address durability, smooth edges to prevent snagging, and safety features where applicable, for example avoiding choking hazards in children's clothing when drawstrings are present. See also related terms such as Zugkraft (pull force) and the broader category of securing systems.