The Complete Guide to Lanyards: Types, Uses, and How to Choose
What Is a Lanyard?
A lanyard is a strap worn around the neck, wrist, or shoulder used to hold an ID badge, credential, key, or other small item — and we've built an entire business around them. Some call that niche. We call it having a lot of strings attached. From trade shows to music festivals to corporate offices, lanyards are one of the most widely used credential tools in the world — simple, visible, and effective.
Types of Lanyards
Flat Polyester Lanyards
The most common style. Flat polyester lanyards are lightweight, affordable, and available in a wide range of colors. They're the default choice for conferences, events, and workplace ID programs where you need a reliable solution in bulk.
Tubular (Round) Lanyards
Tubular lanyards have a rounded, hollow construction. Slightly thicker and softer than flat versions, they're comfortable for extended wear — a good pick for events where attendees keep them on for hours at a time.
Nylon Lanyards
Nylon has a smoother, slightly glossy finish compared to polyester. Nylon lanyards look more polished, making them a popular choice for professional conferences and corporate events.
Woven Lanyards
With woven lanyards, the design or text is stitched directly into the fabric rather than printed on top. The result is a durable, premium finish that won't peel or crack over time. Common for ongoing staff or organization ID programs.
Breakaway Lanyards
Breakaway lanyards include a safety release that snaps apart under tension, preventing injury if the lanyard gets caught. Required by OSHA in many workplaces — essential for manufacturing, food service, and any environment with moving machinery.
Retractable Badge Lanyards
These come with a badge reel that extends and retracts so the wearer can scan their badge without removing it. Standard in healthcare, secure offices, and any facility where badge scanning happens multiple times per day.
Lanyard Attachment Types
The attachment at the end of the lanyard determines what you can clip to it:
- Swivel hook — the standard clip; easy to attach and remove
- Bulldog clip — a strong spring clamp for heavier items
- J-hook — a simple loop for lightweight badge holders
- Badge reel — retractable cord for frequent badge scanning
- Key ring — a standard loop for keys or small accessories
What Are Lanyards Used For?
- Displaying event badges, backstage passes, and conference credentials
- Managing staff, crew, vendor, and VIP access at events
- School and campus ID programs
- Workplace ID and building access control
- Holding keys, USB drives, and small tools
- Branded promotional giveaways
How to Choose the Right Lanyard
Event Duration
For a single-day event, a basic flat polyester lanyard is perfect. For multi-day events where comfort matters, a wider or tubular option is worth the small extra cost.
Safety Requirements
If your event or workplace involves physical work, machinery, or dense crowds, always choose a breakaway lanyard. Safety releases are inexpensive and can prevent serious injuries.
Attachment Needs
Match the clip to how the badge will be used. If attendees need to scan their badge repeatedly, a badge reel clip makes their life easier. For simple display, a swivel hook is fine.
Order Extra
Always order 10–15% more than your expected attendance. Running short on lanyards on event day is easy to avoid.
Get Lanyards Ready to Ship
If you need lanyards without waiting on a custom production run, Backstage Supplies stocks generic lanyards available to ship now. No minimum order, no production delays.