Choosing the Right Fabric for Outdoor Backpacks

By JJames febbraio 03, 2025

The fabric of an outdoor backpack plays a crucial role in its durability, weight, and performance. Whether you're hiking, trekking, or backpacking, selecting the right material can make a significant difference in your outdoor experience. Here’s a guide to help you understand the best fabrics for outdoor backpacks and how they suit different sizes and uses.

Key Factors to Consider

When choosing backpack fabric, consider the following:

Durability: Resistance to abrasion, tearing, and punctures.
Weight: Lightweight fabrics are ideal for long-distance hiking.
Water Resistance: Protection against rain and moisture.
Breathability: Important for comfort during extended use.
Cost: High-performance fabrics often come at a higher price.

Common Backpack Fabrics

1. Ripstop Nylon

Ripstop nylon is a lightweight and durable fabric woven in a way that prevents tears from spreading. It’s often coated with polyurethane (PU) or silicone for added water resistance.

Pros:

Lightweight and strong.
Resistant to tears and abrasions.
Affordable and widely available.

Cons:

Less water-resistant compared to specialized fabrics.
Can degrade under prolonged UV exposure.

Best For: Daypacks, lightweight hiking backpacks (20-40 liters).

2. Cordura Nylon

Cordura is a high-performance nylon fabric known for its exceptional durability and abrasion resistance. It’s often used in heavy-duty backpacks.

Pros:

Extremely durable and long-lasting.
Resistant to abrasions, scuffs, and tears.
Available in various weights and finishes.

Cons:

Heavier than other nylon fabrics.
More expensive.

Best For: Multi-day backpacks (40-60 liters), expedition packs, and rugged use.

3. Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF)

Dyneema is an ultralight, ultra-strong fabric made from high-molecular-weight polyethylene fibers. It’s often used in premium ultralight backpacks.

Pros:

Extremely lightweight and strong.
Waterproof and highly durable.
Resistant to UV degradation.

Cons:

Expensive.
Less flexible and can feel stiff.

Best For: Ultralight backpacks (20-40 liters), thru-hiking, and minimalist adventurers.

4. Polyester

Polyester is a synthetic fabric that’s lightweight, affordable, and resistant to UV damage. It’s often coated for water resistance.

Pros:

Lightweight and affordable.
Resistant to UV degradation.
Dries quickly.

Cons:

Less durable than nylon.
Prone to abrasion over time.

Best For: Daypacks, casual hiking backpacks (20-30 liters).

5. Canvas

Canvas is a heavy-duty fabric made from cotton or synthetic blends. It’s known for its ruggedness and classic look.

Pros:

Extremely durable and long-lasting.
Resistant to abrasions and punctures.
Eco-friendly (if made from natural fibers).

Cons:

Heavy and bulky.
Not water-resistant unless treated.

Best For: Expedition backpacks (60+ liters), traditional or vintage-style packs.

6. XPAC

XPAC is a laminated fabric that combines durability, water resistance, and lightweight properties. It’s often used in high-end backpacks.

Pros:

Lightweight and durable.
Water-resistant and abrasion-resistant.
Stylish and modern design.

Cons:

Expensive.
Can feel stiff compared to other fabrics.

Best For: Ultralight and technical backpacks (20-50 liters), thru-hiking, and fastpacking.

Choosing Fabric Based on Backpack Size

Small Backpacks (20-30 liters)

For daypacks or lightweight hiking backpacks, prioritize lightweight and water-resistant fabrics:

Ripstop Nylon: Affordable and durable.
Polyester: Lightweight and UV-resistant.
Dyneema (DCF): Premium choice for ultralight enthusiasts.

Medium Backpacks (30-50 liters)

For weekend trips or thru-hiking, balance durability and weight:

Cordura Nylon: Durable and abrasion-resistant.
XPAC: Lightweight, water-resistant, and stylish.
Ripstop Nylon: Budget-friendly and versatile.

Large Backpacks (50+ liters)

For multi-day expeditions or heavy loads, prioritize durability and strength:

Cordura Nylon: Heavy-duty and long-lasting.
Canvas: Rugged and traditional, ideal for extreme conditions.
XPAC: Lightweight yet durable for technical use.

Additional Tips

Waterproof Liners: Even water-resistant fabrics can benefit from a waterproof liner or dry bag.
Reinforcements: Look for reinforced stitching and high-wear areas (e.g., bottom panels) for added durability.
Fabric Weight: Heavier fabrics (e.g., 500D Cordura) are more durable but add weight, while lighter fabrics (e.g., 100D Ripstop) are better for ultralight packs.

By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different fabrics, you can choose the right material for your outdoor backpack based on your needs, trip duration, and load requirements. Whether you’re a minimalist thru-hiker or a rugged expeditioner, the right fabric will ensure your backpack performs reliably on every adventure.

← Older Post