What is a lanyard?

A lanyard is a cord or strap that is worn around the neck to hold an identification badge, whistle, keys or other small object. You can see lanyards in use everywhere by businesses, schools, hospitals, at special events, conventions, reunions, and in many recreational activities.

Lanyards can also be used as an advertising tool with a customized logo or name printed on the strap. They come in various colors and types with different hardware attached at the bottom for holding an ID badge, whistle or the like.

Lanyards can be made of cord, cotton, nylon or polyester twill. The cord type is the least expensive but cannot be printed because it lacks the flat surface of the strap-type. Some have a small bulb containing a retractable reel to use with an ID badge or keys. They might also have breakaway connectors so that if the lanyard gets caught it will release before it pulls on the neck.

Notes

"Lanyards are also widely used with small electronic devices. With increasing miniaturisation, many cameras, MP3 players and USB flash drives include lanyards, providing easy portability and insurance against loss or dropping. Electronics designed to take a lanyard usually have a small through-hole built into a corner or edge of the case or anchored to the frame of the device; the corresponding lanyard generally has a loop of thread on the end that is attached to that hole with a simple knot, usually a cow hitch. The Apple iPod headphones incorporate the audio signal into the lanyard, meaning it doubles up as headphone cords as well. Lifeguards typically use lanyards to accommodate their whistles. Lanyards are often used to keep keys on."

Click here to see our lanyard gallery