Choosing the Right Flag Snaps and Covers 

Whether you are overseeing a flagpole repair, replacing old parts, or outfitting your flagpole rigging for the first time, choosing the right flag snaps and snap covers is an essential part of your flagpole set up.

Flag snaps (also called flag clips and hooks) are tied to your flagpole halyard (rope) and attach to the flag. You’ll likely have to replace these snaps over time. When choosing the best snaps, there are a few things to consider.

Types of Flag Snaps

We supply three kinds of flag clips: nylon, solid brass, and stainless steel. So, what’s the difference between these three and how should you choose?

Nylon flag clips are great options for residential flagpoles and are a requirement for fiberglass flagpoles to avoid scratching or damaging the pole. Many customers choose nylon clips because they produce less noise when your flag’s halyard hits against the metal flagpole. They are also a cost-effective option. The drawback? Nylon flag hooks need to be replaced more often and don’t look quite as sharp as metal flag hooks. They also are not great options for larger flagpoles with heavier flags or flags in high-wind areas.

Solid bronze flag snaps come with a long lifespan and are slightly more cost-effective than stainless steel snaps, however you may notice your solid brass grommets wear and oxidize over time, losing some of their shine (but not sacrificing performance.) 

Stainless steel flag snaps are the superior option in terms of endurance, performance, and quality. They are strong enough to hold up in all weather conditions and can have the longest lifespan of any clip, up to five years, depending on maintenance and weather conditions.

When choosing between the two metal clip options, it’s up to your personal preference and price point.

Snap Covers

To minimize the amount of noise generated by your metal flag snaps hitting against the metal flagpole, you can purchase flap snap covers. These nylon covers slip easily over your snap and can be tied directly, with the flag clip, onto your halyard. In addition to reducing noise, flag snap covers extend the life of your flag snaps and can help protect your flagpole. 

What Size Snaps and Snap Covers do I need?

Flag snaps come in three sizes and are best with different size flags. Snap covers come in two sizes and work with all three snap snap sizes.

• Small Flags (up to 4’ x 6’): Snap Hook #1 (3-¼ and 3-½”)

• Medium Flags (5’ x 8’ to 10’ x 15’): Snap Hook #2 (3-¾”)

• Large Flags (over 10’ x 15’): Snap Hook #3 (4-¾”)

The smaller size snap hook cover will work with the two smaller size snaps (#1 and #2) while the larger snap hook cover works with snap hook #3.

How Many Snaps Do I Need?

Most flags use two snap clips (and two covers.) If your flag has more than two grommets, you will need to buy additional snap clips so each grommet has a clip.

How Long Should My Snaps Last?

Flag snap lifespans, like flags, vary depending on local weather conditions and the amount of wind in your area. You should replace your flag hooks when you notice rust, corrosion, or they are difficult to open. 

Inspect your flagpole parts regularly, about every three months. We recommend replacing your snap hooks when you are replacing your flagpole halyard. Doing these two replacements together minimizes time spent working on your pole and ensures your setup stays looking impressive and working effectively. 

While it varies, stainless steel flag hooks can last up to five years, solid brass up to three or four, and nylon hooks around one to two years.

Still have questions? Give us a call and one of our flag and flagpole specialists will be happy to chat with you more. Whether you're flying a flag for your business, your community, or your home, at Sunward Flag, we’re honored to be part of that tradition. If you’re ready to find the perfect flag or have questions, we’re here to help. Reach out today at (858)-689-8444.