snagprone

Snagprone is an adjective used to describe objects, surfaces, or situations with a high likelihood of snagging or catching on other materials. It is used across industries to flag risk areas during design, manufacturing, and safety assessments. The term may appear in product specifications, hazard analyses, and quality control reports. It denotes potential for pulls, tears, jams, or unintended engagement.

In textiles, snagprone fabrics are those with exposed or loosely woven fibers that catch on jewelry or nails, causing pulled threads. In hardware and consumer products, protruding edges, hooks, or rough textures can be snagprone. In outdoor equipment and climbing gear, cords and mesh components may snag on branches or hardware. In automotive and industrial settings, cables and hoses near sharp corners can be snagprone.

Risk assessment uses snag-prone ratings or qualitative judgments; testing may involve abrasion, snag tests, or simulated movement. Design strategies to reduce snag-proneness include rounding edges, masking protrusions, using snag-resistant materials, applying protective coatings, and smooth finishes; instruction for use includes warnings about snag hazards; manufacturing quality controls reduce loose threads.