What Are the Different Cordura® Fabrics?

By A Mystery Man Writer

Last updated 11 May 2024

What Are the Different Cordura® Fabrics?

DetailsCordura® fabric is the toughest bag-making fabric we offer at Sailrite®. It’s extremely durable, tear resistant and heavy-duty. All Cordura fabrics are treated with a polyurethane coating on the back and a water-repellent finish on the front, making these all-weather fabrics a great choice for outdoor adventuring. But how do you know which Cordura fabric to choose for your project? This blog discusses the differences and similarities between the fabric lines and helps you select the perfect one for your next DIY.First, let’s talk about the similarities in Cordura fabrics. A huge distinguishing factor in all Cordura fabrics is that they are woven from INVISTA™ yarns. There are some Cordura copycats on the market, but only authentic Cordura products are made with INVISTA yarns. INVISTA is a manufacturer and innovator in the nylon, polyester and specialty materials industries, and its yarns are known for their high strength, resiliency and durability.woven from INVISTA yarnswater-repellenteasy to cleanabrasion, mildew and rot resistantquick-dryingCalifornia Prop 65 Complianthigh tear strengthNow that we’ve discussed what all Cordura fabrics have in common and their impressive characteristics, let’s take a look at the three fabric lines we offer at Sailrite: Cordura HP, Cordura Classic and Cordura Mil-Spec.We recommend Cordura HP fabrics as an economical option for backpacks, soft-sided luggage, pet products, outdoor gear, travel accessories, footwear and sail bags. Cordura HP is the only Cordura fabric line we offer that is 100% polyester rather than nylon. Cordura HP is unique among Cordura lines in that it is designed as an optimal print medium. You can print patterns, designs and lettering on these fabrics to really customize your project and make it something extra special and unique.100% high-tenacity polyester printablemade from recycled yarn contentaffordable915 x 1220 denier10.2 oz/sq. yd.The original Cordura fabric, Cordura Classic is where it all began. We offer the most colors of this fabric line so you can really customize your projects. Sailrite stocks two weights of Cordura Classic: 500D and 1000D. The term "denier," or "D" for short, refers to the fiber thickness of individual threads or filaments used in the creation of textiles and fabrics. Therefore, Cordura Classic 500D is a lighter weight version of 1000D. Both weights of Cordura Classic are ideal for duffle bags, luggage, military gear, outdoor gear, backpacks, briefcases, protective outerwear, footwear and much more.100% high-tenacity nylonvibrant color optionshighly abrasion resistantextremely versatile500 and 1000 denier6.4 oz./sq. yd. and 9.3 oz./sq. yd.Cordura Mil-Spec meets United States military specifications (DTL-32439A). The fabrics are tested for colorfastness, tensile strength, water repellency and more in order to meet military standards. These fabrics come in a selection of tactical colors including browns, green, black, gray and U.S. Army camouflage. These fabrics are produced using less water, energy and CO2 emissions, creating a lighter environmental footprint and a more eco-friendly and sustainable manufacturing process.Cordura Mil-Spec fabrics come in two weights: 500D and 1000D. As denier is a designation of fiber thickness, 500D is a lighter weight version of 1000D. However, both fabric weights have the same properties and can be used for all the same applications including duffle bags and backpacks, wallets, protective outerwear, military gear, luggage, pet beds and more. These fabrics are also Berry Amendment Compliant, which means they are completely made in the USA.100% high-tenacity nylonBerry Amendment Compliantearthy, neutral colors and camouflagehighly abrasion resistantsolution-dyedexcellent colorfastness and consistent color uniformity500 and 1000 denier8 oz/sq. yd. and 12 oz/sq. yd.Now that you know the different qualities and characteristics of the various Cordura fabric lines, you’re ready to choose the right fabric for your DIY. If you