The best padlocks for serious protection are those with CEN Grade 5 or 6 ratings. These high-security padlocks typically feature hardened steel bodies, closed shackles, and advanced lock mechanisms that resist picking, drilling, and cutting. When you buy padlocks from brands like Mul-T Locks, you're getting proven security. Container padlocks and restricted key padlocks also offer additional layers of protection by limiting who can duplicate keys. If you're protecting valuable assets or need insurance-approved locks, don't settle for anything less than CEN Grade 4 at minimum.

Yes, absolutely. This is called ‘keyed alike’ and it's brilliant for simplifying your life. Instead of juggling five different keys for different gates, sheds, or containers, you get one key that opens all your padlocks. We offer keyed alike options on many of our ABUS and Squire security padlocks for a small additional cost. Even better, you can go for master keyed systems where one master key opens everything, but each lock also has its own individual key. Perfect for businesses or larger properties

Standard padlocks can rust, seize up, or fail when constantly exposed to rain, snow, and coastal conditions. Weatherproof padlocks are built differently, as they use corrosion-resistant materials like solid brass or stainless steel, plus sealed mechanisms that keep moisture out. If your lock lives outdoors on a gate, shed, or container, you need weatherproof protection. Otherwise, you'll be fighting with a seized lock in six months' time. Our Squire and ABUS weatherproof ranges are NANO-PROTECTED, meaning they'll last for years even in harsh British weather.

Start by thinking about what you're securing and where. Low-value items in low-risk areas? A basic combination padlock might do the job. Expensive tools in a van or shipping container? You need high-security container padlocks with a CEN Grade 4-6 rating. Outdoor use? Go weatherproof. Also consider whether you need key control (restricted padlocks), multiple locks with one key (keyed alike), or if a combination lock makes more sense. When you buy padlocks from our padlock shop, we'll talk you through all the options. Still stuck? Call us on 0800 542 1264 - we're here to help.

Good combination padlocks do, yes. However, there's a huge difference between a £5 luggage lock and proper security padlocks with combination mechanisms. The best padlocks in this category from Squire or ABUS feature 4 or 5-wheel combinations (thousands of possible codes), hardened steel construction, and mechanisms that resist manipulation. They're perfect for situations where losing keys is a problem - gyms, lockers, gates that multiple people access. Just remember to choose your code wisely (not 1234 or 0000), and don't let people watch you open it.