You've seen them replacing laces on athletic shoes and zippers on the flap of a windbreaker.

If you design or manufacture products that require thousands of easy openings and secure closings, you realize hook and loop can be the perfect solution. What may not know is the wide range of ways 3M™ Hook and Loop Fasteners can be used to improve product performance and save production time.

You may know that when closing, tiny stiff hooks on one side of the fastener mesh with pliable loops on the other. For opening, simply peel one side away. You may not know you have a choice between seven different 3M pressure sensitive adhesives that will permanently hold a fastener to virtually any flexible or rigid surface in indoor or outdoor applications.

For example, attach plastic curtains to the front of a refrigerated display. Stabilize fabric-covered cushions in aircraft seating. Fasten adjustable straps in an orthopedic foot and ankle brace.

Suspend privacy curtains in a truck cab. Secure metal edge molding around an internally illuminated sign. Attach metal decorative fascia to a painted wood valence. Hang flexible graphics for trade shows.

Close a surgical gown. Hold picture frame samples for in-store display. Attach plastic signage to doors and windows. Secure a vinyl tonneau cover over a pick-up truck bed. Hold foam cushions inside a bicycle helmet.

Non-adhesive-backed versions are also available for sew-on applications such as closures for outdoor clothing and gloves.

Four-step selection process

Four easy steps can help you narrow the range of 3M™ Hook and Loop Fasteners to a "go-to" selection for testing and evaluation: