🔑 The History and Symbolism of Carabiners: Why Lesbians Use Them
Carabiners — those sturdy, metal clips usually seen securing ropes and gear — might not seem like an obvious symbol of LGBTQ+ culture at first glance. But behind their practical appearance lies a rich history that connects them to lesbian identity, tracing all the way back to World War II and the symbolism of keys among women. Let’s dive into the fascinating story of how carabiners became a quiet but powerful emblem within the lesbian community.
🌍 A Symbol of Strength and Resilience
Originally designed for climbers and mountaineers, carabiners represent strength, security, and independence — qualities that deeply resonate within the lesbian community. Over time, what started as a piece of functional gear evolved into a meaningful accessory, symbolising self-reliance and solidarity.
🗝️ WWII and the Power of the Key
During World War II, women took on critical roles in factories, the military, and other industries, often holding literal keys to workplaces and important buildings. Keys soon gained symbolic meaning, representing control, autonomy, and hidden identities.
For many queer women, keys became a subtle way to signal belonging to underground feminist and LGBTQ+ circles. In a time when living openly wasn't possible, these small, everyday objects carried enormous significance, offering a quiet form of connection and resistance.
💪 Carabiners: The Modern Evolution
As LGBTQ+ visibility grew, carabiners became a natural evolution of the key's symbolism. Practical and discreet, they offered a perfect way for lesbians to express identity in both subtle and practical ways — clipped onto bags, belts, or keys.
For many, carrying a carabiner is not just about utility; it's a small yet powerful badge of pride. It’s a nod to a shared history of resilience, adaptability, and community, continuing the tradition of coded signals with a modern twist.
⚡ Carabiners and Community Signals
While the colour of your carabiner doesn’t typically carry a special meaning, placement can be a quiet indicator within the modern lesbian community.
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Left side = top
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Right side = bottom
It’s a subtle form of communication — a wink to those who know — that adds another layer of connection and self-expression.
🏳️🌈 Celebrate Your Identity with Meaningful Symbols
At So Hilarious, we believe every small symbol — whether a carabiner, a key, or a t-shirt — tells a story of pride, resilience, and belonging. Our collections are made for anyone who wants to wear their identity with joy, humour, and authenticity.
All of our products are ethically made, printed on demand to reduce waste, and crafted using vegan, non-toxic inks — because self-expression should also honour our planet and values.
Explore our range of carabiner tees, sweater & mug — and find a piece that celebrates you, your story, and the history that got us here.