Top 5 Popular Backpack Fabric Types

Mar 18, 2024

Navigating the backpack materials can be overwhelming for aspiring backpack buyers. Manufacturers and suppliers often throw around terms like “600D Nylon,” “100T Polyester,” and “150GSM Polypropylene,” leaving you wondering how to appear knowledgeable and avoid being quoted random prices.

As trusted backpack factory in China, YWJC organized this guide on common backpack fabrics to help you communicate confidently. Familiarize yourself with the properties, uses, and care instructions for each materials. 

Cotton Canvas

Hot New Style Unisex USB Backpack Waterproof Oxford Cloth Schoolbag for Men's Business Casual Computer Use

Canvas was historically common but is less so today. It’s durable but bulky, breathable, and expensive to produce. Colors are limited. Without proper drying, it can mildew.

  • Pros: Sturdy and fashionable.
  • Cons: Poor air permeability, limited color options, more expensive, wears faster, heavier than other materials, not waterproof, prone to rotting and decomposition if not properly dried.

Nylon

Nylon reigns as king due to strength, durability and water resistance. Within nylon, ripstop and ballistic weaves excel. Ripstop nylon reinforces standard nylon for tear resistance, ideal for hiking. Ballistic nylon originated for military use and withstands abrasion extremely well in travel bags.

Types of Nylon For BackPacks:

Ripstop Nylon:

  • Pros: More durable than regular nylon, tear-resistant, iconic “grid” pattern.
  • Cons: None notable.

Ballistic Nylon:

  • Pros: Thick and durable, originally designed for military clothing, easy to clean.
  • Cons: None notable.

Polyester

Affordable, quick-drying polyester dominates school and casual backpacks. It’s resilient against sun damage but less durable than nylon long-term.

  • Pros: Very lightweight, waterproof, cheap, quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant, strong, and light.
  • Cons: Not as durable as nylon, airtight, difficult to remove stains.

PVC

Hard-wearing PVC creates lightweight, affordable options in vivid hues. However, it lacks flexibility and breathability for heavy loads.

  • Pros: Durable, lightweight, low-cost, waterproof, various color options.
  • Cons: Not high-end in appearance, lacks elasticity, limited carrying capacity.

Cordura

High-end Cordura outperforms with waterproofing, puncture resistance and an abrasion-proof weave – at a premium price ideal for rugged uses.

  • Pros: Very sturdy, waterproof.
  • Cons: Heavy, high cost, not easily obtainable.

Additional Factors to Consider:

  • Denier: Denier (D) measures the fiber thickness and weight. A higher denier indicates a thicker, more durable fabric.
  • Weave: Different weave patterns affect the fabric’s strength, texture, and appearance. Common weaves include plain, twill, and ripstop.
  • Coating: Some fabrics may have coatings or treatments for added water resistance, stain resistance, or durability.

Proudly, YWJC own global certifications to match foreign customers from different countries. These certificates are such as Certifications: ISO9001, ROHS, CE, SGS and Intertek, etc, to ensure our products quality, and enhancing customers confidence with cooperation with us. Please contact us immediately for more backpack information and factory price.