Which Padlocks are the Most Secure?

With such a variety of padlocks on offer, it’s hard to know which might be the best. There are certain elements of all padlocks that are important to consider if you’re looking for the highest security possible. Take a look at our handy guide here!

Material

Not all cheaper padlocks are bad, but in general those made from cheaper materials will be easier to manipulate or break. A secure padlock is usually one made from a strong alloy steel or brass, as they’re tougher to crack or break.

Shackle

The shackle is the hoop section of the padlock, the part you would slide through what you want to lock. Padlocks with mostly hidden or shirt shackles are usually considered to be more secure, as they don’t give as much leeway for someone to get in and make a clean break with lock cutters.

Endorsements

There are independent testing bodies that grade different locks. This can include CEN grading (how easy a lock is to cut through, how long it takes to pick, and how strong it is when pulled). Buying a highly graded and tested lock brings added assurance that it is one of the more secure varieties available on the market.

Locking Style

Combination locks are generally seen as more secure if multiple people have access to the lock – there's no need to keep making copies of keys and risk these getting lost!

However, if this isn’t an option for you, the most secure key-locking padlocks will have keys with four or more pins. The more pins, the harder it is to pick the lock, or replicate the key.

Better yet, some padlocks will come with a restricted key. This means that without proof of ownership, locksmiths will refuse to make a copy of the key!

Shop our range of padlocks online, or if you have any further questions, get in touch with our team today!