Cordura: What is it?

Not all carry equipment is made the same. You see Cordura everywhere. From the clothes you wear to shoes and bags of all fashion and purpose. And every product will specify the materials used and their corresponding quality. But have you ever thought about what it means to use a product thats made from Cordura? You don't need to become a subject matter expert. But if you are looking for a specific use case, the article below may help you a little.

Let's get into it.

Cordura: A Legacy of Strength and Innovation

Cordura isn't just a fabric; it's a trademarked group of nylon-based fabrics renowned for their exceptional durability, longevity, and abrasion resistance. For over 50 years, it has been synonymous with unmatched performance and reliability in demanding environments. But here's the thing. Cordura isn't a singular entity but a diverse collection of over 16 options, each tailor made to specific needs. This variety allows manufacturers to select the perfect Cordura material for their intended application.

• For activewear and everyday use: lightweight and comfortable Cordura options ensure freedom of movement without compromising durability.
• Heavy-Duty Protection: You're talking ballistic vests, armor-grade materials, and other high-protection equipment; Cordura offers the strength and resilience needed to withstand critical situations. 
• Strategic Reinforcement: Garments designed for tactical use often incorporate Cordura in high-wear areas like knees, elbows, pockets, and belt loops. This strategic placement maximizes protection against tears, abrasions, and punctures in areas prone to wear and tear. 

Here is a quick rundown of some of the options available.

 

Cordura AFT Fabric:

Cordura AFT Fabric is a specific type of Cordura fabric known for its excellent breathability and durability. It's a popular choice for applications requiring lightweight comfort and superior airflow, such as:

• Footwear: Breathable shoes for running, hiking, and other activities.
• Backpacks: Comfortable and well-ventilated backpacks for everyday use or outdoor adventures.
• Motorcycle gear: Jackets and pants that offer protection without compromising breathability.
• Apparel reinforcement: Areas in clothing that need extra durability while remaining breathable, such as knees in work pants or elbows in jackets.

Key properties of Cordura AFT Fabric:

• Open-knit structure: This unique construction allows exceptional airflow, keeping you cool and comfortable during strenuous activities.
• Crafted from robust nylon 6,6 mesh, This material boasts an impressive strength-to-weight ratio, making it resistant to abrasions, snags, and tears, ideal for demanding use.
• Versatile selection: Cordura AFT Fabric has various options, including multilayer 3D spacer and 2D mesh solutions, catering to a multitude of needs.
• Diverse offerings: A range of knit constructions like circular, flat, and warp mesh, along with laminate options for added water repellency. 

Combining breathability with durability, Cordura AFT Fabric offers unique features that make it suitable for various applications where both comfort and performance are essential.

Cordura Ballistic Fabric: 

Cordura Ballistic Fabric is a tough and reliable option within the diverse Cordura family. Its origins in military body armor speak volumes about its exceptional durability and resilience, making it perfect for applications that demand the best:

Key properties of Cordura Ballistic Fabric: 

• Engineered for Toughness: Crafted from woven nylon, this fabric utilizes high-tenacity nylon 6,6 filament yarns for superior tear and abrasion resistance. Whether facing challenging environments or rugged terrains, Cordura Ballistic Fabric can withstand the test.
• Strength with Style: Featuring a tightly woven 2x2 basket weave (minimum), this fabric boasts an optimal strength-to-weight ratio and a distinctive aesthetic. Its lustrous sheen comes from high-tenacity (>420D) nylon 6,6 bright filament, making it suitable for applications where both durability and aesthetics are essential.
• Versatility in Applications: Cordura Ballistic Fabric isn't limited to military use. Its innate toughness translates into various applications, including:

• Backpacks and luggage: Providing exceptional protection for your belongings, even under heavy loads and demanding travel conditions.
• Footwear: Offering robust construction for boots and shoes that must withstand harsh environments and frequent wear and tear.
• Motorcycle gear: Ensuring abrasion resistance and protection for riders in case of falls or accidents.
• Apparel: Reinforcing high-wear areas in jackets, pants, and other clothing for enhanced durability without compromising comfort.

Overall, Cordura Ballistic Fabric presents a compelling combination of:

• Unmatched strength and resilience: Ideal for demanding situations and protecting against abrasions and tears.
• Appealing aesthetics: With a lustrous sheen and various options, it can cater to functionality and style preferences.
• Wide range of applications: Adaptable to various needs, making it a valuable choice for diverse industries and everyday use.

Cordura Ballistic Fabric is worth considering if you're looking for a durable and versatile fabric that can handle life's biggest challenges. 

Cordura Classic Fabric

Now, the Cordura Classic Fabric stands tall as the OG and the most enduring member of the Cordura family. Engineered over 50 years ago, it is a benchmark for rugged reliability, exceeding expectations in even the most challenging environments. This is what most high-quality backpacks are made of. So don't worry, you're not getting a lemon. Here's a closer look at its defining characteristics:

Unwavering Strength:

• Built for Resilience: Cordura Classic Fabric is renowned for its exceptional tear strength, abrasion resistance, and water repellency. This fabric provides unmatched durability, whether braving harsh weather or enduring demanding activities.
• Texture and Tenacity: Crafted from 100% high-tenacity, air jet-textured filament fiber, it offers a balance of strength and comfort.

Tailored for Versatility:

• Yarn Size Options: Available in various yarn sizes, including 330D, 500D, 700D, and 1000D, this fabric caters to diverse application needs.
• Weave Variations: With options like plain, dobby, basket, and ripstop constructions, Cordura Classic Fabric offers the ability to choose the ideal balance of flexibility and structure.
• Customizable Finishes: The fabric can be customized with finishes, coatings, or laminations, ensuring a perfect fit for different requirements.

Applications:

Cordura Classic Fabric's extensive list of applications is a testament to its versatility:

• Backpacks and luggage: Providing exceptional durability for everyday use and travel adventures.
• Workwear: Offering long-lasting performance for demanding jobs and environments.
• Footwear: Delivering enhanced protection and support for rigorous activities.
• Outdoor gear: Ensuring reliable performance in harsh outdoor conditions.
• Apparel reinforcement: Adding a layer of strength to high-wear areas in clothing, like knees in work pants or elbows in jackets.

The Cordura Classic Fabric symbolizes enduring quality and versatility. Its legacy of strength and customization ability make it a trusted choice for various applications where durability and performance are paramount.

Cordura Combat Wool

Cordura Combat Wool™ Fabric stands ahead of the pack with its unique blend of comfort and enhanced durability. By merging merino wool's natural touch with the performance benefits of nylon 6,6, it caters to diverse needs, offering the best of both worlds. The major vulnerability of modern synthetic fabrics: FIRE. A stray ember can quickly melt or burn through expensive nylon, polyester, or Dyneema gear.:

Strength Meets Softness:

• Merino infusion: This innovative fabric combines the cozy comfort and aesthetic appeal of merino wool with the added strength and performance of nylon 6,6. It allows you to experience merino wool's natural benefits without compromising durability.
• Strength in Lightness: Despite its soft feel, Cordura Combat Wool™ Fabric boasts an impressive strength-to-weight ratio and remarkable tear resistance. It's up to 10 times more abrasion-resistant than traditional wool fabrics, making it ideal for demanding conditions.

Adaptability and Versatility:

• Tailored for Various Needs: Whether you prioritize stretch for mobility or more traditional woven construction, Cordura Combat Wool™ Fabric offers options to suit your preferences.
• Customizable Finishes: Further enhance its functionality with various finishes, coatings, or laminations. This allows you to tailor the fabric to specific requirements, ensuring optimal performance for your intended use.
• Beyond Base Layers: While ideal for baselayers, activewear, and workwear, this fabric extends its reach to various applications. It seamlessly transitions into bags, footwear, and accessories, offering a unique combination of comfort and durability even in everyday wear or urban environments. 

Benefits in Action:

• Enhanced Comfort: Enjoy merino wool's natural breathability and thermoregulation, keeping you cool and comfortable during activities.
• Increased Durability: Experience nylon's superior tear and abrasion resistance, ensuring your clothing and gear withstand frequent wear and tear.
• Versatility: From activewear to lifestyle pieces, Cordura Combat Wool™ Fabric caters to diverse needs and applications.
• Naturally Antibacterial: Wool resists mold, mildew, and odor build-up, keeping you fresh longer.
• Warmth in Wet Conditions: Unlike cotton, which loses its insulating properties when wet, wool retains warmth even when damp.
• Water Repellent: While wool absorbs water eventually, it naturally repels water initially, providing an extra layer of protection.
• Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Depending on the type and blend, wool can offer impressive strength for its weight.
• Wrinkle Resistance: Wool's natural wrinkle resistance minimizes the need for constant ironing or care.

Cordura Combat Wool™ Fabric presents a compelling choice for those seeking a perfect balance of comfort, performance, and durability. Its unique natural and synthetic fiber blend caters to various activities and environments, making it a valuable addition to your wardrobe or gear collection.

Cordura Denim Fabric: 

Cordura Denim Fabric stands out for its commitment to extending the lifespan of your favorite denim garments. Here's a closer look at its key characteristics:

• Enhanced Durability: Crafted with a unique blend of cotton and INVISTA T420 nylon 6,6 fiber, this fabric surpasses the longevity of traditional 100% cotton denim. Including military-grade nylon fibers significantly boosts abrasion resistance, making your jeans more resilient to wear and tear.
• Long-lasting Appearance: Cordura Denim Fabric boasts superior strength retention. This means your jeans will maintain shape and look newer for longer, even after frequent use and washing.
• Comfort Not Compromised: Cordura Denim Fabric doesn't sacrifice comfort despite its focus on durability. The cotton blend ensures a familiar feel, making these jeans comfortable for everyday wear.

Cordura Denim Fabric is ideal for those who value long-lasting denim clothing. Its unique blend of materials offers enhanced durability, strength retention, and everyday comfort.

 

Cordura HP Fabric:

Cordura HP Fabric stands out for its durability, printability, and versatility. Here's a breakdown of its key features:

Material: Textured polyester offers a soft and comfortable feel while providing a durable base for various applications.

Printability: This fabric is ideal for printing graphics and patterns, making it an excellent choice for customized products.

Resistance to Wear and Tear:

• Resists tears, scuffs, and abrasions: Ensures your gear withstands everyday use and potential hazards.
• Water-repellent properties: Available in both finished and coated variations for additional protection against moisture.

Versatility:

• Weave options: Offered in different weaves like plain, dobby, basket, and ripstop, catering to a wide range of needs in terms of structure and flexibility.
• Applications: Widely used in:
• Bags
• Backpacks
• Footwear
• Outdoor gear
• Accessories 

In essence, Cordura HP Fabric is a compelling choice when you need a material that is:

• Durable: Able to withstand wear and tear effectively.
• Printable: Offers excellent printability for customization.
• Versatile: Suitable for various applications and needs.
• Comfortable: Provides a soft and comfortable feel.

Cordura HP Fabric might be the perfect fit for your project if you're looking for a fabric that combines these qualities.

 

Cordura Lite Fabric: 

Cordura Lite Fabric carves a niche within the Cordura family by offering an impressive combination of lightweight construction and exceptional durability. Here's a closer look at its defining characteristics:

Lightweight Yet Strong:

• Airbag Technology: This fabric is woven with super high-tenacity nylon 6,6 filament yarns (210D to 420D), incorporating technology inspired by airbags. This unique construction results in a lightweight material that feels remarkably strong and supportive, ideal for technical packs where weight minimization is crucial.

Durable and Protective:

• Robust Resistance: Despite its lightweight nature, Cordura Lite Fabric offers robust resistance against tears, abrasions, and scuffs. This ensures your gear can withstand everyday wear and tear, protecting your belongings from potential damage.
• Water Repellent: Available in both finished and coated options, this fabric provides water-repellent properties, adding an extra layer of protection against moisture and unexpected downpours.

Aesthetics and Versatility:

• Shiny Luster: Made from 100% high-tenacity nylon 6,6 bright filament, Cordura Lite Fabric boasts a distinctive shiny luster. This adds a touch of visual appeal while maintaining its functional excellence.
• Diverse Constructions: Offered in various woven constructions like ripstop, basket, and dobby, this fabric caters to a range of needs in structure and flexibility. This allows for customization and application in various scenarios.

Applications:

Cordura Lite Fabric's versatility extends to a wide range of uses, including:

• Daypacks and messenger bags: Ideal for everyday use, providing lightweight comfort and reliable protection for your belongings.
• Luggage: Offering a balance of durability and minimal weight, perfect for travel needs.
• Accessories: Reinforcing high-wear areas in accessories like straps or pouches for enhanced durability.
• Apparel reinforcement: Adding a layer of strength to high-wear areas in clothing, like knees in work pants or elbows in jackets. 

In conclusion, Cordura Lite Fabric presents a compelling option for a lightweight yet exceptionally durable material. Its versatility, water-repellent properties, and range of constructions make it a valuable asset for various applications, from technical packs to everyday gear.

 

Cordura Naturalle Fabric: 

Cordura Naturalle Fabric stands out for its unique ability to bridge the gap between comfort and durability. Let's delve into its essential characteristics:

Comfort Meets Performance:

• Cotton-like Feel: This fabric offers the softness and comfort of cotton, making it enjoyable to wear for extended periods, especially during activities.
• Nylon Durability: However, unlike cotton, Cordura Naturalle Fabric is crafted with nylon 6,6, known for its exceptional durability. This blend ensures the fabric is resistant to abrasions, tears, and water, making it suitable for various performance needs.

Designed for Versatility:

• Matte Finish: Featuring full-dull luster nylon 6,6 filament yarn, this fabric boasts a subtle and stylish matte finish. This aesthetic versatility allows it to integrate into different clothing styles seamlessly.
• Stretch Options: Woven options incorporate elastane and spandex yarns for increased stretch and mobility, ideal for activities requiring freedom of movement.
• Construction Variety: Available in various constructions like plain, ripstop, double-face, and dobby, this fabric caters to diverse needs in structure, flexibility, and application.

Applications:

Cordura Naturalle Fabric's versatility translates into a wide range of applications, including:

• Technical pants: Offering a blend of comfort, durability, and weather resistance for outdoor activities.
• Shells: Providing a protective outer layer for various weather conditions.
• Mid-layers: Ensuring warmth and comfort during activities.
• Outerwear: Delivering style, performance, and protection for everyday wear or outdoor adventures.

Cordura Naturalle Fabric presents an attractive option for those seeking comfortable yet durable clothing. Its unique blend of materials, diverse constructions, and stylish finish make it a valuable addition to various performance apparel needs.

 

Cordura Naturalle Knit:

Cordura Naturalle Knit stands out within the Cordura family for its ability to deliver exceptional comfort and performance in a knitted form. Here's a closer look at its defining characteristics:

Comfort and Performance in Harmony:

• Soft and Supple: Crafted from high-tenacity nylon 6,6 filament fibers, this fabric offers a soft, supple feel, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
• Lightweight and Flexible: Despite its comfortable feel, the Cordura Naturalle Knit remains lightweight and flexible, allowing for ease of movement during various activities.

Engineered for Durability:

• Resists Pilling and Snagging: This fabric is designed to resist pilling and snagging, a common concern with knitted materials. This enhances the garment's lifespan and overall appearance.
• Excellent Bursting Strength: While lightweight and comfortable, the Cordura Naturalle Knit boasts excellent bursting strength. This ensures the fabric can withstand unexpected stress and strain, making it suitable for various activities.

Versatility through Knitting:

• Lasting Stretch: This fabric offers lasting stretch across various knit constructions, from jersey to brushed fleece, thanks to its knit technology. This caters to a wide range of clothing styles and activities requiring freedom of movement.
• Diverse Applications: The versatility of Cordura Naturalle Knit extends to various applications in technical sports and lifestyle apparel, including:
• T-shirts: Providing a comfortable and durable option for everyday wear or athletic activities.
• Sweats and joggers: Offering comfort, flexibility, and durability for casual wear or lounging.
• Softshell mid-layers: Delivering warmth, breathability, and protection for outdoor activities.

Cordura Naturalle Knit presents a compelling choice for those seeking comfortable, durable, and versatile knitted clothing. Its unique blend of materials, exceptional construction, and range of applications make it a valuable addition to various athletic and lifestyle apparel needs.

 

Cordura NYCO Fabric: 

Cordura NYCO Fabric stands out for its unique combination of comfort, durability, and versatility. Initially developed for military combat uniforms, it has transcended its origins to offer a valuable fabric solution for various applications.

Key characteristics:

• Enhanced Versatility:
• Lightweight design: Ensures comfortable wear and minimal bulk.
• Moisture-wicking properties: Effectively draws moisture away from the body, promoting faster drying and reducing sweat build-up.
• Lower lifecycle costs: Offers extended wear time and requires less frequent replacement due to its durability.
• Comfort and Durability:
• Cotton blend: Provides the familiar comfort and breathability of cotton.
• Nylon 6,6: Enhances strength, tear, and abrasion resistance, making the fabric more durable for demanding environments. Available in blends of up to 60% cotton and 40% nylon 6,6, allowing for customization of comfort and durability based on specific needs.
• Engineered for Tough Conditions:
• It was initially developed for military use, Built to withstand the rigors of combat environments, ensuring exceptional durability for everyday wear and tear.

Applications:

Cordura NYCO Fabric's versatility extends beyond military uniforms, making it suitable for various applications such as:

• Workwear: Offering a blend of comfort, durability, and moisture management for various job types.
• Outdoor apparel: Providing reliable performance and protection for hiking, camping, and fishing.
• Travel clothing: Combining comfort, breathability, and durability for extended wear during travel.
• Casual wear: Offering a comfortable and long-lasting option for everyday use.

In conclusion, Cordura NYCO Fabric presents a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile fabric that combines comfort, durability, and functionality. Its unique blend of materials and technical properties make it a valuable asset for various clothing and gear applications.

 

Cordura® NYCO Knit: 

Cordura® NYCO Knit builds upon the legacy of Cordura® NYCO Fabric, offering the same comfort and durability in a knitted form. Here's a breakdown of its key features:

Versatility and Performance:

• Lightweight: Ensures comfortable wear and freedom of movement.
• Moisture-wicking: Effectively draws sweat away from the body, promoting faster drying and breathability.
• Fast-drying: Reduces moisture build-up and keeps you feeling fresh.
• Extended wear time and reduced lifecycle costs: Offers long-lasting performance and requires less frequent replacement due to its durability.

Comfort Meets Strength:

• Cotton-like comfort: Up to 60% cotton blend provides a familiar feel and breathability.
• Nylon 6,6 for strength and durability: Enhances tear and abrasion resistance for demanding activities.

Engineered for Tough Conditions:

• Military heritage: Originally developed for combat uniforms, ensuring exceptional durability for everyday wear.
• Suitable for various environments: Withstands diverse conditions, making it a versatile choice.

In essence, Cordura® NYCO Knit presents a compelling option for those seeking a comfortable, durable, and performance-oriented knitted fabric. Its unique blend of materials and construction makes it ideal for various applications, from active and casual wear to workwear and outdoor apparel.

 

Unveiling Cordura re/cor™:

Cordura introduces Cordura re/cor™, a collection of fabrics committed to sustainability and performance. This innovative line incorporates recycled materials like RPET, RN6, and RN66, offering a responsible approach to creating durable and versatile fabrics.

Core Values:

• Sustainability Begins with Products That Last™: Cordura emphasizes the link between durability and sustainability, believing that long-lasting products reduce waste.
• Dedication to Innovation: Constant research and development lead to cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of consumers and the environment.

Cordura re/cor™ Fabrics:

• RN66 - Durable. Responsible. Innovated to Last.:
• Made from 100% recycled post-industrial waste materials, highlighting a commitment to waste reduction.
• Available in various yarn weights (deniers) while maintaining Cordura fabrics' renowned strength and durability.
• Versatile applications: Suitable for apparel, outerwear, bags, luggage, equipment, and footwear.
• RN6 - Nylon Fabric That's Re-Built to Last.:
• 100% recycled nylon 6 yarn created through specialized recycling technologies.
• Meets the same performance and durability standards as traditional Cordura fabric.
• It is ideal for technical packs, day packs, luggage, and footwear.
• RPET - Transform Waste to Want.:
• 100% recycled high-tenacity polyester yarn derived from discarded bottles and packaging.
• Maintains the expected performance and durability of Cordura fabrics.
• They are used in backpacks, day packs, footwear, luggage, and accessories, with a minimum of 40% recycled content.
• Blends: Combining recycled and other materials to offer unique performance and design possibilities not achievable with single fibers.

Cordura re/cor™ is committed to sustainability and performance. By offering various recycled fabric options that maintain the brand's renowned durability, Cordura re/cor™ allows consumers to make responsible choices without compromising quality and functionality.

 

Cordura Truelock Fabric:

Cordura Truelock Fabric stands out for its unique ability to deliver unmatched color consistency and environmental responsibility. Here's a closer look at its key characteristics:

Color Vibrancy and Consistency:

• Superior Color Locking: Cordura Truelock Fabric technology utilizes an innovative process that locks in color, ensuring vibrant hues that resist fading.
• Uniformity Across Batches: This technology guarantees consistent color across different production batches, eliminating variations and ensuring a uniform look for your products.
• Multi-Component Compatibility: Whether you're using multiple fabric components in a single product or working with different batches, Truelock Fabric guarantees consistent color throughout.

Sustainable Innovation:

• Environmentally Responsible Production: Compared to traditional dyeing methods, the production of Cordura Truelock Fabric utilizes less water energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
• Sustainable Choice: This fabric allows you to make environmentally conscious decisions without sacrificing performance or aesthetics. 

Additional Notes:

• While the details of reduced environmental impact are not provided, Cordura emphasizes its commitment to sustainability through this innovative fabric.

Cordura Truelock Fabric presents a compelling choice for those seeking a solution that combines unrivaled color consistency, environmental responsibility, and lasting performance. Its unique properties make it ideal for various applications where color accuracy and sustainability are crucial factors.

 

Cordura UltraLite Fabric: 

Cordura UltraLite Fabric carves a niche in the Cordura family by offering an unprecedented combination of lightweight construction and exceptional durability. Here's a breakdown of its key features:

Unmatched Lightweight Design:

• Featherweight Champion: Boasting a weight of less than 50 gm2, this fabric is exceptionally lightweight, reminiscent of materials used in parachutes and hot air balloons. This makes it ideal for applications where minimal weight is crucial.

Engineered for Toughness:

• Don't be Fooled by the Weight: Despite its airy nature, Cordura UltraLite Fabric is built for durability. Woven with high-tenacity nylon 6,6 filament yarns, it offers impressive tear resistance and a remarkable strength-to-weight ratio. This ensures your gear can withstand everyday wear and tear without sacrificing weight savings.

Versatile Applications:

• Catering to Diverse Needs: Available in various constructions like plain, ripstop, and dobby, this fabric caters to a wide range of needs in terms of structure and flexibility. This allows for customization and application in various scenarios, including:
• Daypacks: Offering lightweight comfort without compromising on durability.
• Stuff sacks and pouches: Providing a packable and lightweight solution for organizing gear.
• Performance apparel: Enhances breathability and comfort while maintaining durability for active pursuits.

Tailored Aesthetics and Functionality:

• Choice of Finish: This fabric comes in various finishes to suit your needs:
• Shiny Luster: Opt for the nylon 6,6 bright filament option for a visually appealing sheen.
• Functional Finishes: Explore finished, coated, and laminated options for added water repellency, ideal for situations where protecting your gear from moisture is crucial.

In essence, Cordura UltraLite Fabric presents a compelling choice for those seeking a material that is:

• Exceptionally lightweight
• Exceptionally durable
• Highly versatile
• Available in various finishes for customization

This makes it ideal for various applications, from ultralight backpacks and performance apparel to everyday gear that prioritizes minimal weight and superior strength.**

 

Cordura: A Story of Continuous Evolution:

Cordura's lineage begins with the DuPont Company in the 1920s. Initially developed as a rayon-based material, it found early applications in military vehicle tires due to its inherent strength. However, the discovery of superior nylon formulations in 1966 paved the way for the iconic Cordura nylon used today.

Continued innovation remained a constant. The groundbreaking discovery of a new dyeing process in 1977 opened doors to broader commercial applications beyond military and industrial uses. This innovation allowed for the creation of Cordura fabrics in a broader range of colors and aesthetics, making them more appealing for various consumer products. This ultimately led to Cordura's prominence in the soft-sided luggage market by 1979.

Beyond Military Applications:

While its military heritage remains a source of pride, Cordura's reach extends far beyond. Today, numerous industries recognize and utilize its unique properties:

• Activewear: Leading apparel brands incorporate Cordura for its durability and comfort, ensuring garments withstand rigorous activities. 
• Workwear: European workwear companies rely on Cordura to reinforce clothing, providing enhanced protection for workers in demanding environments. 
• Motorcycle Gear: The abrasion resistance of Cordura makes it a top choice for motorcycle jackets, pants, and gloves, which is crucial for rider safety. 
• Everyday Use: From backpacks and luggage to sports equipment and footwear, Cordura offers a reliable and long-lasting solution for various everyday applications.

Beyond Strength: A Spectrum of Options

Cordura extends beyond being a single, rugged fabric. It comes in various constructions, weights, and aesthetics to cater to specific needs and applications:

• Cordura Baselayer: This lightweight and breathable option delivers comfort for activewear.
• Cordura Denim: Combining the familiar look and feel of denim with Cordura's signature durability, this option offers unique aesthetics.
• Cordura Duck: This option blends the strength of Cordura with the traditional cotton duck fabric used in workwear, providing a familiar feel with enhanced durability.

 

Understanding Denier: The Unit of measurement of cloth

Denier is a unit used to measure the weight and thickness of fibers. A higher denier generally indicates a more robust and more abrasion-resistant fabric. Still, it also means the fabric may be less comfortable and more susceptible to heat build-up against the skin.

While denier is essential, it's crucial to consider the weight/function trade-off when choosing Cordura for specific applications. For example:

• Maximizing Durability: A high-denier fabric might be ideal for heavy backpacks to ensure long-lasting performance.
• Maintaining Comfort: Clothing worn for extended periods, like hiking pants or activewear, might benefit from a lower-denier Cordura option for better breathability and comfort.

Among CORDURA's most deterministic features is its high "durability per weight" index, which makes use of the fabric an extremely appealing proposition to military and LE branches.

The matter of fabric weight brings us directly to the subject of denier. Before we further explore CORDURA, it's probably a good idea to explain denier (pronounced "deh-near," not "dee-nigh-er"). 

What is Denier?

Demystifying Denier:  Choosing the Perfect Cordura Fabric

Selecting the suitable Cordura fabric involves navigating a sea of technical specifications and understanding how various factors influence its performance. This comprehensive guide delves deeper into the world of deniers and explores advanced considerations to empower you to make informed decisions for your specific needs.

Understanding Denier:

As mentioned earlier, denier (pronounced "deh-near") measures the linear density of a fiber, reflecting the weight of 9,000 meters of that fiber. Essentially, a higher denier signifies thicker and heavier fibers. However, this simplified explanation only captures part of the picture. Denier is just one piece of the puzzle, and it's crucial to consider the type of fiber used in the Cordura fabric:

• Nylon 6,6: The most common Cordura fiber, known for its exceptional strength, abrasion resistance, and lightweight properties.
• Recycled Nylon 6,6 (Cordura® re/cor™): Offers the same performance benefits as virgin nylon 6,6 while promoting sustainability.
• Nylon 6: A slightly less abrasion-resistant option than nylon 6,6, offering good durability at a lower weight.
• Cotton Blends (Cordura® Naturalle): Blends cotton's comfort and breathability with nylon's durability, ideal for applications with both comfort and functionality. 

The interaction between fiber type and denier significantly impacts the fabric's overall characteristics. For example, a 1000D Cordura fabric made from nylon 6,6 will be stronger and more abrasion-resistant than a 1000D fabric made from recycled nylon 6,6 due to the inherent properties of the virgin nylon fibers.

Beyond Denier: Unveiling Additional Factors

While denier is a crucial starting point, selecting the perfect Cordura fabric requires considering a holistic approach, taking into account these additional factors:

• Weave: Different weave patterns, such as plain, ripstop, and dobby, influence the fabric's structure, flexibility, and tear resistance. For instance, ripstop weaves incorporate additional reinforcing threads, offering superior tear resistance to plain weaves.
• Finish: Coatings and laminations enhance the fabric's functionality in various ways. Water-repellent (DWR) coatings shed moisture, while PU coatings offer additional water resistance and abrasion protection.
• Yarn Construction: How the individual fibers are twisted and spun into yarns affects the fabric's texture, strength, and breathability. High-twist yarns tend to be more robust but less breathable, while low-twist yarns offer better breathability but may be slightly less durable.
• Brand and Model Variations: Different Cordura manufacturers and models may offer slight variations in fabric properties even with similar denier ratings. It's essential to consult the manufacturer's specifications for detailed information on specific fabrics.

Making Informed Choices: 

By understanding the interplay between denier, fiber type, and other factors, you can make informed choices based on your specific needs:

Scenario 1: High-Durability Backpack

• Priority: Exceptional durability and abrasion resistance to withstand heavy loads and harsh environments.
• Choice: Opt for a higher denier fabric (e.g., 1000D) made from nylon 6,6 with a plain weave for maximum strength and abrasion resistance. Consider a PU coating for added water resistance and protection.

Scenario 2: Hiking Pants for Extended Wear

• Priority: Balance between durability for outdoor activities and comfort for extended wear.
• Choice: Choose a mid-range denier fabric (e.g., 500D) made from recycled nylon 6,6 with a ripstop weave for good tear resistance and breathability. Opt for a DWR coating to shed light moisture while maintaining breathability.

Scenario 3: Technical Jacket for Active Use

• Priority: Balance between durability, breathability, and comfort for activities like running or climbing.
• Choice: Select a lower denier fabric (e.g., 210D) made from nylon 6 or a cotton blend (Cordura® Naturalle) with a loosely woven construction to maximize breathability. Consider a lightweight DWR coating for repelling light rain.

Conclusion:

Selecting the perfect Cordura fabric requires going beyond simply understanding denier. By considering the fiber type, weave, finish, yarn construction, and brand variations, you can make informed choices that align with your needs and priorities. Remember, the ideal Cordura fabric balances durability, comfort, and functionality for your intended application. With the knowledge provided in this comprehensive guide, you are well-equipped to navigate the diverse world of Cordura fabrics and confidently choose the perfect material for your next adventure.

Additional Tips:

• Research specific Cordura models: Explore the websites of reputable Cordura fabric manufacturers and retailers to access detailed specifications and information on various Cordura models.
• Seek expert advice: If you need clarification on the best Cordura fabric for your project, consult a knowledgeable salesperson at a fabric store or a gear retailer specializing in outdoor or workwear products.
• Consider user reviews: Reading online reviews from other users can provide valuable insights into the real-world performance and suitability of specific Cordura fabrics for various applications.

Remember, choosing the suitable Cordura fabric is an investment in durability, functionality, and overall purchase satisfaction. By taking the time to understand the factors influencing fabric properties and making informed decisions, you can ensure that your Cordura gear performs flawlessly and serves you well for years to come.