Stainless steel (AISI 316)

Material

  • Price

    Premium

    Top of the range. You pay for properties that cheaper materials cannot offer — whether it is durability, hypoallergenicity or long-term stability.

  • Strength

    Very high

    Designed for situations where failure is not an option — working dogs, rescue service, extreme loads. Holds shape and function even under permanent intense stress.

  • Corrosion resistance

    Marine grade

    Handles salt water, chlorides and chemically aggressive environments. Designed for coastal areas, sea swimming or conditions where ordinary materials quickly fail.

  • Water

    Salt water

    Withstands even sea and salt water without damage. Go ahead with it into the sea, onto the beach or anywhere regular materials corrode or fall apart.

Weight Medium Weight is noticeable — more sensitive animals will notice it. For miniature and toy breeds, consider whether it is still comfortable.
Allergy risk No risk Contains no nickel or other known contact allergens and does not release them during wear. Safe for sensitive skin without restriction.
Aging Stable Appearance practically does not change over time. Colour, gloss and surface texture remain the same even after months of regular use.
Maintenance Maintenance-free No special care needed. Just rinse with water or wipe with a cloth — that is all.

What 316 stainless steel is

Stainless steel with added molybdenum. It's the molybdenum that protects it from chlorides – the salt in both seawater and sweat – which ordinary 304 stainless steel eventually gives in to.

Why we use it for hardware

Snap hooks and hardware for water sports, mushing and sailing: Kong snap shackles, buckles, bracelet clasps.

When to choose it and when to look elsewhere

  • Sea and salt water – the only steel of ours that doesn't mind permanent salt exposure.
  • Water sports and coastal canicross.

For everyday walks, the difference over 304 is an unnecessary premium – go for 304 instead.

How it ages and how to care for it

Unchanged and no maintenance – even after a season at the sea there's nothing to do.

Good to know

It's known as "marine grade steel" – A4 bolts in harbours are the same thing as 316. Surgical instruments are also made from it.

Products — Material: Stainless steel (AISI 316)