What is a lanyard?
A lanyard is a length of cord or rope worn around neck or wrist typically used to carry things around that would otherwise be easy to lose or misplace. Lanyards can be traced to as far back as 15th century France when they were originally used to lash and tighten ship riggings. Sailors would wear lanyards around their necks to carry their tools around while on board.
Types
Modern lanyards are of 4 basic types - tube, cord, beaded and flat. They range in material from cotton to polyester, satin, nylon, silk, braided leather or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The choice of material depends largely upon the lanyard’s intended use.
Styles
When worn, lanyards typically go around the neck like in ID holders or worn around the wrist whilst attached to a small digital camera or mobile phone so that it isn’t accidentally dropped. Others are used much like key chains and tied around the belt or a purse.
Attachments
There are a large number of attachments that can go with custom made lanyards, one for every possible function most users can think of.
A few examples:
- J-swivel / alligator clip / executive swivel – the most common attachments for a variety of ID accessories like badge holders/pouches
- Safety breakaway – a simple mechanism that allows the release of the clip as a safety precaution against accidental strangulation. It is ideal for machine operators, security staff and most sporting activities involving ropes. It is designed with a pre-determined breakaway weight or equivalent tug-force.
- Mobile phone buckle (detachable) – allows the convenient removal of the mobile phone whilst keeping the lanyard on.
- Split ring – preferred attachment for connecting keys
- Bottle holder – frees up the wearer’s hands especially during outdoor events where bottled water are distributed. Contemporary Uses Lanyards are cheap and functional. They are popular marketing and fundraising tools.
Businesses use lanyards as promotional giveaways during corporate events to create brand recall. Many designs are available to cater to specific needs. Some double as pen or bottle holders. Still others come with steel and aluminum carabiners for activities that involve climbing, rope rescue, construction etc.
