Why are people stealing zippers? Even though everyone’s zippers have been relatively safe over the past few weeks, parents and students alike are left in shock over this strange trend.

In August 2024, a TikTok account named Kyrieirvingishimm posted a video captioned, “I’m from NYC. Do not leave your Nike Elite lacking around me.” In this video, he shows himself stealing zippers off Nike Elite backpacks. As this trend gained traction, Nike Elite backpack zippers were viewed as status symbols—trophies to show off to friends. At some point, the thieves realized they could sell the zippers for a significant markup on websites such as eBay, with prices reaching upwards of ninety dollars, the same amount as the backpacks themselves. But even though you could make a lot of money from this, is it worth the risk?

According to Jobin Joseph, an attorney at Rosenblum Law, “It’s illegal to take something that doesn’t belong to you, even if the item is worth very little, such as a zipper. The consequences of stealing zippers can range from in-school punishments like detention, suspension, or even expulsion. The legal repercussions could also involve a court, resulting in community service or financial compensation.” 

But what do the victims of these thefts have to say?

One victim, Kannon Thompson (a fellow member of Mule Time Media), stated, “I was just walking to class, and when I went to get a tissue, I noticed my zippers were gone.” The thief of Kannon’s zippers remains unknown. These thieves are able to slip in undetected, untie the victim’s zippers, and then escape. This is why the trend is so popular—it’s hard to get caught stealing zippers. The thieves managed to remove all of the zippers from Kannon’s backpack.

As this trend continues, students are wondering how to keep their zippers safe. Here are some tips:

1. Keep your eyes on your backpack at all times. If you keep watching your backpack, you’ll be able to stop the thieves before they can untie your zippers.
2. Secure your zippers. You could use an anti-theft clip or a natural substance like beeswax or rubber to do this.
3. Report suspicious behavior. If you see anyone tampering with a backpack, please report it to a teacher or administrator immediately.

In conclusion, although stealing Nike Elite backpack zippers may seem like a cool thing to do, the legal consequences make it far from worth the profit. If you are aware of a theft, report it to the teachers and/or administrators on campus as soon as possible.