The classification of "snap hooks" is highly related to their application scenarios. The core differences lie in structural strength, locking methods, and materials. Below are the main categories and their corresponding applications:

1. Classification by Locking Method (the Core Classification Dimension)

This is the key to distinguishing the safety level and application scenarios of snap hooks, as the locking mechanism directly affects the anti-falling performance.

- Non-locking Snap Hook

- Structure: The hook opening is closed only by the elastic force of the spring, with no additional locking device.

- Application: Suitable for non-load-bearing and non-safety-risk scenarios, such as hanging keys, backpack pendants, curtain hooks, and temporary suspension of small tools (e.g., electrician's pliers hung on a belt).

- Auto-locking Snap Hook

- Structure: After the hook opening is closed, the locking device (e.g., spring pin, rotating sleeve) is triggered automatically. It can only be opened by manually pressing to unlock.

- Application: Scenarios requiring basic safety guarantees, such as connecting tent ropes to ground stakes during camping, the end hook of pet leashes, and load-bearing buckles for ordinary luggage.

- Manual-locking Snap Hook

- Structure: Manual operation of the locking component (e.g., rotating nut, flipping lock plate) is required to complete the locking, and two-step operation is also needed for unlocking, providing the strongest protection against accidental opening.

- Application: High-risk and heavy-load scenarios, such as connecting safety harnesses to main ropes during mountaineering/climbing, safety protection hooks for high-altitude operations, and lifting light equipment in the industrial field (must meet load-bearing standards).

2. Classification by Material

Material determines the durability, load-bearing capacity, and applicable environment of the snap hook.

- Plastic Snap Hook

- Features: Lightweight, low cost, and rust-proof, but with weak load-bearing capacity (usually < 5kg).

- Application: Daily light-load scenarios, such as hanging keys, backpack pendants, hooks for children's toys, and curtain accessories.

- Metal Snap Hook

- Features: Strong load-bearing capacity (ranging from several kilograms to hundreds of kilograms), high durability. Common materials include aluminum alloy (lightweight, suitable for outdoor use) and steel (high strength, suitable for industrial use/mountaineering).

- Application:

- Aluminum alloy type: Outdoor scenarios such as mountaineering, camping, and diving (balancing strength and lightweight performance);

- Steel type: Industrial hoisting, high-altitude operations, and automobile traction (requiring high-strength load-bearing).

The core of choosing a suitable snap hook lies in matching it to the safety requirements, load-bearing needs, and environmental characteristics of your intended use. You can screen step by step following these 4 steps:

1. First, Clarify the "Core Purpose": Determine the Locking Safety Level

This is the most critical step, as it directly decides whether you need a "non-locking," "auto-locking," or "manual-locking" snap hook to avoid safety risks:

- For non-load-bearing/non-safety-critical scenarios (e.g., hanging keys, backpack pendants, curtains): Choose a non-locking snap hook; priority should be given to convenience.

- For scenarios requiring basic safety guarantees (e.g., pet leashes, hanging camping gear, load-bearing for ordinary luggage): Choose an auto-locking snap hook to prevent accidental detachment (e.g., the hook won’t easily open when a pet pulls).

- For high-risk/heavy-load scenarios (e.g., mountaineering, rock climbing, high-altitude operations, industrial hoisting): A manual-locking snap hook is a must. Its two-step unlocking mechanism minimizes the risk of accidental opening. Additionally, you must confirm that the product meets relevant safety standards (e.g., mountaineering hooks need CE or UIAA certification).

2. Confirm the "Load-Bearing Capacity": Avoid Overload Fracture

 Select a snap hook with load-bearing capacity matching the weight of the item to be hung—never judge solely by its appearance:

- For daily light-load scenarios (e.g., hanging keys, jewelry): A plastic or light metal hook with a load-bearing capacity of less than 5kg is sufficient.

- For medium-load scenarios (e.g., pet leashes, hanging sleeping bags while camping): Choose an auto-locking aluminum alloy or steel hook with a load-bearing capacity of 5–20kg.

- For heavy-load/high-risk scenarios (e.g., mountaineering, industrial use): You need a high-strength metal hook with a load-bearing capacity of over 20kg (e.g., mountaineering hooks typically require a static load-bearing capacity of ≥20kN, approximately 2 tons). Always check the product’s marked "rated load-bearing capacity"—never use products without a load-bearing label.

3. Match the "Usage Environment": Choose the Right Material

Material determines durability; select based on "humidity, corrosiveness, and weight requirements" of the environment:

- For humid/outdoor environments (e.g., camping in rainy weather, diving, seaside): Choose an aluminum alloy or stainless steel hook to prevent rust (plastic hooks are also rust-proof but have weak load-bearing capacity, so they are only suitable for light-load scenarios).

- For dry/indoor scenarios (e.g., hanging keys, curtains): Both plastic hooks and ordinary metal hooks work; prioritize cost-effective options.

- For lightweight-required scenarios (e.g., mountaineering, hiking): Choose an aluminum alloy hook (about 2/3 lighter than steel hooks without compromising strength); for scenarios requiring extreme strength (e.g., industrial hoisting): Choose a steel hook.

4. Pay Attention to "Detailed Design": Enhance User Experience

Supplement your selection based on practical operational needs:

- Opening size: For thick ropes (e.g., main mountaineering ropes), choose a hook with a large opening; for small items (e.g., key rings), a small-opening hook is better to prevent falling.

- Operational convenience: For outdoor scenarios, choose auto-locking/manual-locking hooks with "one-click unlocking" (operable even with gloves); for industrial scenarios, check if the hook has an anti-scratch coating (to protect equipment).

- Additional functions: If you need to hang and remove items frequently, choose a style with a "quick-open/close" spring; if you’re worried about losing the hook, choose one with a lanyard hole.