Choosing the personalised lanyards ideal may seem trivial, but it is actually a crucial strategic decision for any professional event. A well-chosen lanyard is far more than a simple holder for badges or keys: it is a powerful communication tool, a vector of corporate branding, and a stylish accessory that can leave a lasting impression. In this guide, we invite you to discover the secrets to selecting the perfect lanyard that will meet not only your practical needs but also your marketing ambitions. Together, we will explore the various materials, designs, and personalisation options, revealing how a smart choice of lanyard can transform your presence at events. Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of promotional lanyards and learn how to make choices that truly make a difference!

Criteria for choosing the best promotional lanyards

When selecting the “best lanyard", it is crucial to understand its different aspects in order to best meet your specific needs. A lanyard, often used in professional and event settings, is more than just a holder for badges or keys. It can also serve as a marketing tool or a fashion accessory. Different types are available, each with unique characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.

Lanyards vary in material, width, length, colour, pattern, clasp, buckle and ID badge holders. Here is an overview of these aspects:

  1. Materials
  • Polyester : Cost-effective, durable and easy to print, but less comfortable.
  • Nylon : Smooth, glossy and strong, although more expensive.
  • Cotton : Natural and soft, but prone to staining or creasing.
  • Bamboo : Eco-friendly, soft, but less durable.
  • Satin : Elegant, but more fragile.
  • Silicone : Flexible and waterproof, but less breathable.
  • Leather : Premium and robust, but heavy and expensive.
  • Metal : Durable and resistant, but rigid and cold.
  1. Width and Length

Lanyards are available in widths ranging from 10mm to 25mm. The wider the lanyard, the more comfortable and visible it is, but also the more expensive. The standard length is generally 90 cm and can be adjusted to suit requirements.

  1. Colour and Pattern

A wide range of colours and patterns is available. Bright colours attract attention but may stain easily, while patterns offer greater expressiveness.

  1. Clasp and Buckle

Several clasp options such as clips and carabiners increase security but can be bulky. Detachable or adjustable buckles offer greater practicality.

  1. ID Badge Holders

ID badge holders vary in materials such as plastic or vinyl, offering different levels of protection and personalisation.

To choose the best lanyard, consider the intended use, comfort, security, personalisation, budget and durability. For example, for a professional event, a nylon lanyard with a clip clasp and plastic ID badge holders is ideal for visibility and security. For daily use, a simple and durable polyester lanyard is suitable. For a phone while travelling, a waterproof silicone lanyard is recommended.

Selecting the right lanyard depends on several factors. It is important to take the time to consider each aspect in order to find the lanyard that will perfectly meet your needs.

What size of event lanyards should you choose?

When it comes to choosing the ideal size of event lanyards, several factors come into play, going beyond simple aesthetics. The appropriate size of a lanyard is essential to ensure comfort, the security of the attached item, and proper representation of the brand or organisation.

Types of Lanyard Sizes

  • Standard : Total length of 90 cm, width of 1 to 2.5 cm, made of polyester or nylon, robust and cost-effective.
  • Adjustable : Variable length, often made of cotton or bamboo, more eco-friendly but more expensive.
  • Elastic : Extends up to twice its original length, narrow width, made of rubber or silicone, price varies depending on quality.

Selection Criteria

  • Type of Event : For trade shows, prioritise visibility with standard or adjustable lanyards. For sports activities or concerts, choose elastic lanyards for comfort and safety.
  • Type of Wearer : Consider the wearer’s body shape and outfit. A lanyard that is too long or too short may be uncomfortable or restrict movement.
  • Type of Attachment : The size should match what you want to attach (badge, card, keys) for secure and attractive fastening.
  • Type of Personalisation : The size should be optimal for good readability and visibility if the lanyard is personalised with a logo or message.

Practical Example


For a trade show, a standard or adjustable lanyard with sufficient width for clear logo visibility and an appropriate length so that the badge sits at chest level is ideal. A strong and durable material is preferable for such occasions.

The choice of lanyard size should be guided by the context of its use, wearer comfort, the required attachment type and personalisation needs. With the different types of lanyards available, it is important to select the one that best meets your specific needs to ensure an optimal experience at your event.

What are the different types of materials for promotional lanyards?

Choosing the right material for event lanyards is essential to combine aesthetics, functionality and comfort. Each material offers unique benefits, meeting varied needs in terms of durability, comfort and adaptability.


Synthetic Materials

  • Polyester : The most common, offering strength, durability and ease of printing. It is soft, smooth and can be woven in different ways.
  • Nylon : Stands out for its shine and flexibility. More resistant and elastic than polyester, it is ideal for precise printing but more expensive.
  • Polypropylene : Lightweight, water-resistant, suitable for outdoor events. It is recyclable but offers lower print quality.

Natural Materials

  • Cotton : Appreciated for its softness, comfort and breathability. Less durable and can crease easily. Organic cotton is an eco-friendly option.
  • Bamboo : Lightweight, absorbent, antibacterial and eco-friendly. More expensive, it is often blended with synthetic fibres to improve durability.
  • Silk : Luxurious and refined, soft and shiny. Easy to print but fragile and costly.
  • Wool : Warm and comfortable, soft, insulating and elastic. Eco-friendly but more suitable for winter and difficult to print.

Choosing the Appropriate Material

  • Type of event : Polyester or polypropylene for one-off events, nylon or cotton for recurring events. Bamboo or silk for premium occasions.
  • Budget : Polyester and polypropylene are affordable, while silk and wool are more expensive.
  • Target audience : Bamboo or organic cotton for a young and eco-conscious audience, nylon or silk for a professional audience.
  • Message to convey : Polyester for an informative message, silk or satin for a promotional message.
  • Desired design : Polyester or nylon for a simple design, textured materials for complex designs.
  • Desired comfort : Cotton or silk for a soft feel, bamboo or polypropylene for lightness.

By considering these factors, you can select the ideal material for your event lanyards, ensuring a balance between quality, cost and functionality suited to your specific event.

What are the different types of attachments?

Choosing the type of attachment for event lanyards is crucial to meet the specific needs of each event. There are various attachment options for lanyards, each offering unique benefits suited to different uses.

Simple Attachments

  • Carabiner : Robust and practical, suitable for secure fastening.
  • Hook : Lightweight and discreet, ideal for quick attachment.
  • Crocodile clip : Provides good strength and security.
  • Plastic clip : Cost-effective, but less durable than metal options.

These simple attachments are perfect for short-term events where the need to frequently change accessories is limited. They are easy to use and generally affordable.

Detachable Attachments

  • Detachable clip : Allows the accessory to be easily separated from the lanyard, offering convenience and flexibility.
  • Safety clip : Designed to detach under strong tension, increasing safety in healthcare or industrial environments.
  • Magnetic clip : Provides a secure and discreet connection, but may be sensitive to magnetic interference.

Detachable attachments are ideal for events requiring frequent accessory changes, such as trade shows. They offer added comfort and minimise safety risks.

Special Attachments

  • Bottle opener : Adds a fun touch, useful for festive events.
  • Whistle : Suitable for sports or large-scale events.
  • Pen holder : Practical for conferences or seminars.
  • Cup holder : Ideal for outdoor events or festivals.

These attachments turn the lanyard into a multifunctional item, tailored to the event theme and enhancing its practicality.

Choosing the Right Attachment

To choose the appropriate attachment, consider the following criteria:

  • Purpose of the lanyard : Identification, message delivery, or event engagement.
  • Type of accessory to attach : Badge, ID card, keyring, etc.
  • Frequency of accessory changes : Rare, frequent or urgent.
  • Required level of security : Low, medium or high.
  • Desired style : Classic, modern or playful.

Depending on your needs, you can choose simple attachments for ease of use and affordability, detachable attachments for flexibility and safety, or special attachments to add originality and functionality to your event lanyards.

Lanyards with safety breakaway: the benefits

Promotional lanyards integrate a vital safety feature: the breakaway lanyards. This component may seem insignificant, but it plays a major role in user protection and lanyard durability.

Definition and Benefits of the Safety Breakaway

The safety breakaway is a device designed to detach easily in the event of tension. Positioned at the neck, it can separate by pressure or sliding. Its benefits are numerous:

  • Risk prevention : Reduces the risk of strangulation or accidental snagging.
  • Recommended for high-risk environments : Essential in industrial or school settings.
  • Comfort and adjustability : Facilitates adjustment and quick removal of the lanyard.

Types of Safety Breakaway

There are several types of safety breakaway, each suited to different uses:

  • Snap : Easy to use and durable, ideal for frequent users.
  • Slide : Discreet and elegant, suitable for executives and VIPs.
  • Magnetic : Practical and silent, suitable for noisy environments.
  • Velcro : Flexible and comfortable, ideal for delicate clothing.

Choosing Lanyards with Safety Breakaway

To choose the right lanyard, consider the following aspects:

  • Purpose of the Lanyard : Identify the main use, whether for identification, promotion, or as a keepsake.
  • Type of Lanyard : Choose from polyester lanyards, nylon lanyards, dye sublimation lanyards, or woven lanyards according to your needs.
  • ID Badge Holders : Select ID badge holders compatible with the items to be attached.
  • Safety Breakaway : Opt for a breakaway that meets your safety and comfort requirements.
  • Personalisation : Add personalised elements to reflect the identity and message of your event.

By taking these criteria into account, you can select breakaway lanyards that not only ensure user safety and comfort but also enhance the overall impact of your event.

Eco-friendly lanyards: what are they?

An eco-friendly lanyards represents a sustainable and responsible alternative to traditional lanyards, offering a practical solution for various events while minimising environmental impact. This type of lanyard is made from materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, recycled PET, hemp, cork, recycled satin and recycled silk, each with unique advantages and disadvantages.

Organic cotton is soft, hypoallergenic and biodegradable, but more expensive than conventional cotton and prone to creasing. Bamboo is valued for its antibacterial properties and lightness, but may undergo chemical treatments during fibre processing. Recycled PET is strong, lightweight and waterproof, but may contain harmful substances and degrade over time. Hemp is robust, absorbent and biodegradable, but can feel rough. Cork is waterproof and insulating, but can be fragile and deform under heat. Recycled satin is soft and fluid, but may be less breathable than natural fibres. Recycled silk is luxurious and lightweight, but costly and delicate.

When choosing eco-friendly lanyards, it is important to consider the material, personalisation, comfort, price and environmental impact. The chosen material should suit the intended use, desired comfort and budget. Personalisation allows the lanyard to be made unique, reflecting the image and values of the company or organisation. Comfort is crucial, as the lanyard will be in direct contact with the skin. The price of eco-friendly lanyards may be higher than standard models, but their durability and positive environmental impact justify the investment. Finally, environmental impact is central to the eco-friendly approach, and choosing products made locally or under fair conditions can reduce the social impact of manufacturing.

By choosing eco-friendly lanyards, you opt for a product that combines practicality, aesthetics and responsibility, while conveying a positive and committed message for the environment and society.

Express lanyard service: receive lanyards quickly for your event

The concept of express lanyard service is a fast and efficient solution for urgent needs for personalised lanyards. Designed for professional events such as trade shows, conferences or conventions, these express lanyards guarantee rapid production and delivery without compromising on quality or budget.

Features of Express Production for Event Lanyards:

  • Fast turnaround: Production possible within 96 hours after approval of the artwork proof.
  • Printing technique: Use of dye sublimation, allowing vibrant colours and good resistance to washing and friction.
  • Material used: Satin polyester, chosen for its soft feel, glossy appearance and suitability for printing.
  • Quantity: Suitable for orders from 50 to 3000 units.
  • Comparison with other printing techniques: Dye sublimation offers a more vibrant and accurate result compared to screen printing, although the latter is more durable and cost-effective.

Express Delivery of Event Lanyards:

  • Speed: Next-day delivery after manufacturing, depending on location.
  • Specialised carriers: Use of fast and secure delivery services.
  • Costs: Free delivery for orders over €100 excl. VAT; additional charges apply for smaller orders.
  • Availability: Service available in several European countries.

Advantages of Express Event Lanyards:

  • Fast production and delivery, ideal for urgent orders.
  • Maintained quality despite rapid production.
  • Wide range of models and personalisation options available.

Disadvantages of Express Event Lanyards:

  • Higher cost due to accelerated processes.
  • Limited production quantities.
  • Material choice limited to satin polyester.

Express event lanyards are an excellent option for those requiring fast delivery without compromising quality. However, they can be more expensive and offer less flexibility in terms of quantity and material choice. The choice between express and standard production depends on specific needs, budget, and preferences regarding materials and design.

Why buy promotional lanyards?


Event lanyards play a crucial role in professional events. Why buy promotional lanyards ? These accessories are not only useful for holding badges or keys; they also help promote the brand or company, thereby increasing visibility. They can be personalised with logos, slogans or contact details, offering a discreet yet effective form of advertising.

In addition to promotion, lanyards contribute to team cohesion. Wearing lanyards in company colours creates a sense of unity among staff. They are also essential for security, enabling quick identification of participants and access control, which is crucial to prevent unauthorised access at events.

Comfort and practicality are other important benefits. Lanyards are designed to be comfortable to wear, preventing loss or damage to attached items and facilitating professional interactions. They are equipped with safety features such as detachable clips or breakaway lanyards, providing additional protection for participants.

Event lanyards are indispensable in the professional world due to their versatility. They not only serve as effective communication tools but also enhance safety and comfort at events, making them a strategic choice for companies and organisers.

How much do custom lanyards cost?

Custom lanyards are essential elements at professional events, offering an excellent opportunity to promote a brand or company. Their cost varies depending on several factors, including material, width, length, printing method, attachment type and order quantity. How much do custom lanyards cost ? Here are the main factors influencing the price:

  • Material : Material has a significant impact on price. Standard polyester lanyards are the most economical, costing between €0.50 and €2 per unit. Nylon lanyards, which are more expensive, range from €1 to €3 per unit. Eco-friendly lanyards such as bamboo and organic cotton can cost between €2 and €4 per unit, while recycled PET ranges from €1.50 to €3.50 per unit.
  • Width and Length : The standard width is generally 2 cm, with narrower or wider options available. The standard length is 90 cm, but custom lengths can influence the price.
  • Printing Method : Screen printing is cheaper and suitable for simple designs, while dye sublimation lanyards, ideal for complex designs, are more expensive.
  • Attachment Type : Attachments vary from economical carabiners to more sophisticated options such as swivel hooks or safety breakaways, affecting the total price.
  • Order Quantity : Large orders often benefit from volume discounts.

The cost of custom lanyards therefore depends on personalisation choices and order volume. To achieve a result that meets both your branding needs and your budget, it is essential to consider these various elements.

We recommend these other pages: