Fabric Ripstop Nylon: Everything You Need to Know

When shopping for tough fabrics you’ve probably come across the term “nylon ripstop”. Used in outdoor gear to military applications, nylon ripstop fabric is loved for its unique weave that prevents tearing and ripping. Nylon ripstop fabric is sold by the yard so you can use it for all your DIY projects and applications. But what is nylon ripstop, how is it made and why is it so popular?

This post goes into the world of nylon ripstop and gives fabric buyers the full lowdown on its features, benefits and use cases. Whether you’re sourcing materials for your next product or just want to know the differences between fabric types this has you covered.

What is Ripstop?

Ripstop fabric is a tough and durable outdoor fabric with a unique weave that adds extra durability and prevents ripping and tearing. It’s made from polyester or nylon fibers woven in a plain weave with thick reinforcement threads. The crosshatch pattern of the reinforcement threads is what gives ripstop fabric its look and adds strength and durability.

What is Nylon Ripstop?

Nylon ripstop is a lightweight yet super durable fabric used where tear resistance is key. The term “ripstop” comes from its defining feature—a grid of thicker threads woven into the fabric to stop tears from spreading. It’s perfect for demanding conditions, long lasting and reliable without the bulk.

This is used in industries like outdoor apparel, sporting equipment, military gear and even fashion. From parachutes and tents to backpacks and jackets, fabric ripstop nylon is a versatile and tough textile. Plus nylon ripstop fabric can be bought in bulk and is often sold on a roll which is great for big projects and shipping.

Features of nylon ripstop:

• Tear resistant weave

• Lightweight and portable

• Strong but flexible

• Water resistant or waterproof (depending on coatings)

Ripstop Fabric Characteristics

Ripstop fabric is a tough fabric that resists ripping and tearing making it perfect for outdoor gear and apparel. It’s also abrasion resistant and can be coated to be waterproof, water repellent, UV resistant and fireproof. It’s lightweight and easy to work with making it a popular choice for crafting and sewing projects.

How is Ripstop Nylon Made?

What sets ripstop nylon apart from other fabrics is its manufacturing process. The material is woven from a base nylon fabric which has a reinforcing grid of thicker threads. These threads are woven in at regular intervals to create a grid like pattern visible under close inspection.

Process:

1. Fiber preparation: Nylon threads are prepared and strengthened for weaving. Thicker denier (thickness) fibers are used for the reinforcement grid.

2. Weaving: The base nylon threads are woven in a plain weave structure with the thicker reinforcement threads woven in at regular intervals (e.g. every 5mm or 10mm).

3. Final treatments: Ripstop nylon can be coated or finished to add properties like water resistance, UV protection or fire retardancy.

This weaving process gives ripstop fabric its tear resistant structure while remaining lightweight and flexible.

What are the different types of Nylon Ripstop?

There is no one size fits all nylon ripstop; different variations are made for different needs. Here are some common types of ripstop nylon fabric:

Standard Ripstop Nylon

This is the most common and is used in outdoor applications like tents, tarps and jackets. It’s a balance of strength and weight and can handle moderate wear and tear.

Coated Ripstop Nylon

Coated versions have an added layer (usually polyurethane or silicone) to add properties like water resistance or flame retardancy. Used in rain jackets, camping gear and kites.

Dyed Ripstop Nylon

Dyed ripstop fabric adds style to durability. This type is used in fashion forward products like bags or custom outdoor apparel.

UV Resistant Ripstop Nylon

This version is treated to block out the sun’s UV rays making it great for sails, umbrellas and awnings.

Ripstop Fabric Uses

Ripstop fabric is a versatile fabric that can be used for many applications including outdoor gear, sportswear and protective clothing. It’s used to make backpacks, tents and other outdoor equipment, uniforms and workwear. Ripstop fabric is also a popular choice for crafting and sewing projects like making flags, banners and other decorative items.

Nylon Ripstop vs Polyester Ripstop

Both nylon and polyester ripstop fabrics are popular but they serve different needs. Knowing the difference between the two will help you choose the right fabric for your project:

If you want a fabric that’s ultra light and strong, nylon ripstop is the way to go. But if you’re making outdoor gear that will be exposed to the sun for a long time, polyester ripstop might be a better choice.

Pros and Cons of Nylon Ripstop

Pros

• High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Lightweight and incredibly strong, no added bulk.

• Tear Resistance: The grid weave prevents small tears from spreading, durability.

• Water Resistance: Many ripstop nylon fabrics are water resistant or waterproof, great for outdoor use.

• Versatility: Used in many industries, camping gear, clothing and protective equipment.

Cons

• UV sensitive: UV exposure will degrade the fabric over time.

• Breathability: Coated ripstop fabrics can trap moisture and be uncomfortable in some applications.

• Cost: Compared to other fabrics, ripstop nylon can be more expensive due to the process.

Working with Ripstop Fabric

Working with ripstop fabric is easy, it’s a lightweight and easy to handle fabric. Can be cut and sewn with standard sewing techniques and tools. When working with ripstop fabric use a sharp needle and heavy duty thread to ensure a strong and durable seam. Ripstop fabric can also be finished and coated to add durability and water resistance.

How to Care for Nylon Ripstop

While ripstop fabric is durable, proper care will extend its life and maintain its properties. Here’s a quick guide on how to care for your ripstop nylon:

Washing:

• Cold water and mild soap.

• No fabric softener, it may damage the coating.

• Hand wash to prevent machine wash wear and tear. For machine wash, use delicate cycle.

Drying:

• Air dry to prevent heat damage.

• No direct sunlight to minimize UV exposure.

Repairs:

• For small tears use repair tape or adhesive patches designed for ripstop fabric.

• Sewing can be tricky due to the fabric’s weave, for big damage consider professional repair services.

Storage:

• Store ripstop nylon in a cool dry place to prevent mold and mildew.

• Avoid compression storage for too long, it can affect the coating.

Nylon Ripstop: A Fabric You Can Trust

From its tear resistant weave to its lightweight versatility, nylon ripstop is a practical and high performance fabric for many applications. Its durability and flexibility makes it a must have for industries from outdoor gear to fashion.

As a fabric buyer, knowing the characteristics of nylon ripstop—and how it compares to polyester—will help you make better decisions. Whether you’re making outdoor gear, apparel or any product that requires reliable materials, nylon ripstop is a choice you can count on.

Looking for ripstop nylon for your next project? Browse our collection and start sourcing now.

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