What is Cordura Fabric? A Guide to Durable Nylon Textiles

In a world where durability and reliability are paramount, we often find ourselves searching for materials that can withstand the test of time and resist the wear and tear of daily use. One such material that has risen to prominence in recent years is Cordura fabric, a high-performance textile known for its exceptional strength and versatility. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a military personnel, or simply someone who appreciates long-lasting products, Cordura fabric is a top choice for a variety of applications.

Key Takeaways

• Cordura fabric is a collection of robust fabrics renowned for its exceptional resistance to wear and tear.

• It offers excellent abrasion resistance, water repellency, and mildew resistance. Making it ideal for outdoor gear & equipment as well as upholstery.

• Cordura fabric provides great value with its durability, versatility in colors/styles & easy maintenance, perfect choice for any project!

Understanding Cordura Fabrics

Cordura fabric is a collection of highly durable and resistant fabric technologies that are suitable for a wide array of applications. It is constructed from high-quality nylon, with some blends incorporating cotton or other natural fibers to enhance its properties.

One of the key factors that set Cordura fabric apart from other textiles is its exceptional resistance to wear and tear. This is achieved through a polyurethane coating on the back and a durable water-repellent finish on the front, rendering it highly resistant to abrasion, tearing, mold, mildew, rot, and moisture. This makes Cordura fabric suitable for extended outdoor use, as well as for various products such as backpacks, luggage, and lightweight textiles.

Cordura Nylon vs Polyester

When it comes to Cordura fabric, there are primarily two types: Cordura nylon and Cordura polyester. Both materials have their own unique advantages and drawbacks, depending on the intended application. Cordura nylon is renowned for its high strength and remarkable abrasion resistance, making it a popular choice for outdoor gear, military gear, and other rugged applications.

On the other hand, Cordura polyester offers enhanced UV resistance and improved color retention, making it a more suitable option for applications where exposure to sunlight is a concern. Nonetheless, keep in mind that Cordura nylon doesn’t resist UV rays and color fading as well as Cordura polyester, whereas Cordura polyester doesn’t match Cordura nylon in strength and abrasion resistance.

Ultimately, the choice between Cordura nylon and polyester will depend on the specific requirements of the project and the desired balance between strength, UV resistance, and color retention for the ideal nylon product.

The Evolution of Cordura Fabric

Cordura fabric has come a long way since it became popular. Their fabrics started gaining traction in the 1960s with the advent of technological advancements in nylon fiber. During the 70s, workwear brands began recognizing the value of Cordura fabric for its increased tear strength and abrasion resistance.

Over the years, Cordura fabric has gained widespread acceptance in various industries, particularly in outdoor gear and military applications. Iconic brands like Jansport and Eastpak were early adopters of Cordura for the manufacturing of their backpacks in the 70s. Today, Cordura fabric is a go-to choice for many brands and products due to its exceptional durability, resistance to wear and tear, and adaptability to different applications and environments.

Key Features of Cordura Fabric

As we have mentioned earlier, Cordura fabric is known for its key features that make it suitable for a wide range of applications. These features include abrasion resistance, water repellency, and mildew resistance. The high-tenacity woven nylon or polyester fibers in Cordura fabric provide exceptional abrasion resistance, making it ideal for rugged environments and heavy-duty applications.

Additionally, Cordura fabric has the following features:

• Treated for water repellency to ensure durability in various weather conditions

• Treated for mildew resistance to prevent the growth of mildew and other fungi on the fabric

• Durable water-repellent (DWR) finish effectively repels water and maintains a dry fabric surface

• Mildew-resistant finish prevents the growth of mildew and other fungi on the fabric

These features make Cordura fabric a top choice for outdoor gear and equipment, as well as everyday items and upholstery.

Abrasion Resistance

Abrasion resistance is a critical factor in determining the longevity and performance of a material. The ability to resist the effects of abrasion, or wearing down due to friction or rubbing, is a testament to how well a surface can withstand wear and tear. Cordura fabric, with its high-tenacity woven nylon or polyester fibers, offers outstanding abrasion resistance, making it suitable for use in demanding conditions where frequent use and wear are expected.

The advantages of utilizing Cordura fabric for abrasion resistance are numerous, such as enhanced durability, prolonged product lifespan, and enhanced performance in demanding conditions. This makes Cordura fabric an ideal choice for outdoor gear, equipment, and upholstery as well as everyday items that are subjected to constant use.

Water Repellency and Mildew Resistance

For fabrics exposed to elements or used in damp or humid environments, water repellency and mildew resistance are indispensable features. Water repellency is achieved through the implementation of a water-repellent coating or finish, creating a hydrophobic surface that prevents water from entering the fabric. Cordura fabric is treated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish, effectively repelling water and maintaining a dry fabric surface while reducing the amount of dirt and debris that can adhere to the fabric.

To ensure Cordura fabric remains in pristine condition, even in damp or humid conditions, it is treated with a mildew-resistant finish that effectively prevents the growth of mildew and other fungi on the fabric. These treatments make Cordura fabric highly suitable for outdoor gear and equipment, as well as everyday items and upholstery that may be exposed to moisture.

Popular Applications of Cordura Fabric

Its high abrasion resistance, water repellency, and mildew resistance make it an ideal choice for extended outdoor use, ensuring that your gear can withstand the elements and the test of time.

In addition to outdoor gear and equipment, Cordura fabric is also widely used in everyday items and upholstery, including clothing, bags, and furniture. Its durability and versatility make it a top choice for many industries, and its wide range of colors and styles ensures that there is a Cordura fabric to suit every preference and application.

Outdoor Gear and Equipment

Outdoor gear and equipment are designed to provide comfort, safety, and convenience during outdoor adventures, such as camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing. Cordura fabric is a robust and adaptable material that is optimal for these applications. Its properties include:

• Lightweight

• Abrasion-resistant

• Water-repellent

• Mildew-resistant

• High breathability

These properties make Cordura fabric ideal for items that will be exposed to the elements and help keep the user comfortable in warm and humid conditions.

Cordura fabric is utilized in various outdoor gear and equipment, including:

• Tents

• Sleeping bags

• Backpacks

• Hiking boots

• Camping stoves

• Fishing rods

It is also used in clothing items like jackets, pants, and shirts, which are often referred to as performance apparel. Its exceptional durability and versatility make it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts who demand the best from their gear and the brand they choose.

Everyday Items and Upholstery

Everyday items and upholstery, such as:

• furniture

• appliances

• kitchenware

• electronics

• clothing

• personal care items

also benefit from the durability and versatility of Cordura fabric. Its resistance to wear and tear, as well as its lightweight, breathable, and water-resistant properties, make it an optimal choice for furniture and other items exposed to daily use and the elements.

However, bear in mind that Cordura fabric doesn’t have the plushness of fabrics like cotton and wool, and therefore may not be as comfortable for some furniture pieces. Additionally, Cordura fabric may require special cleaning products or techniques, as it is not as easy to clean as other fabrics.

Nonetheless, Cordura fabric’s remarkable durability and versatility make it a worthwhile choice for various everyday items and upholstery applications.

Cordura Fabric Colors and Styles

Cordura fabric is available in a wide range of colors and styles, catering to different preferences and applications. From solid colors like coyote brown, tan, and silver, to more vibrant options such as DR purple blue, and blue/black, there is a Cordura fabric to suit every taste and project.

In addition to the various color options, Cordura fabric also comes in different deniers, such as 500D and 1000D, allowing you to choose the appropriate fabric weight for your specific needs and application. This versatility ensures that the right Cordura fabric is available for every project, whether it’s outdoor gear, military applications, or everyday items and upholstery.

Is it worth Buying Cordura Fabric at Midwest Fabrics?

Investing in Cordura fabric products is undoubtedly worth it due to their long-lasting durability, resistance to wear and tear, and versatility in various applications. The exceptional strength and resilience of Cordura fabric make it an ideal choice for outdoor gear, military attire, and everyday items that are subjected to constant wear and tear.

Moreover, Cordura fabric’s availability in a wide range of colors and styles ensures that there is a suitable option for every preference and application. By choosing Cordura fabric products, you can have confidence in the durability and performance of your investment, knowing that it will stand the test of time and withstand the rigors of daily use.

Caring for Cordura Fabric Products

Ensuring the longevity and maintenance of Cordura fabric products necessitates proper care. It is advised to use lukewarm water and a mild detergent to remove any dirt from Cordura fabric products, avoiding the use of bleach or fabric softeners. For removing coarse dirt, a soft or medium-soft hand brush is recommended.

When it comes to drying Cordura fabric products, air drying or drying on low heat is advised. To prevent any damage or compromise in performance, it’s vital to strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions when caring for your Cordura fabric products.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Cordura fabric products remain in pristine condition and continue to perform at their best.