What Fabric Is Best for Backpacking?

By Michael Ferguson

Backpacking is a fun way to explore the outdoors and see the sights. But if you want to stay comfortable and keep your things dry, it’s important to choose the right fabric for your backpack. Different fabrics have different properties that make them ideal for backpacking, so understanding their strengths and weaknesses can help you make an educated decision when selecting your backpack material.

Nylon is a popular choice for backpacks, as it’s lightweight and durable. It also resists water fairly well, although not as well as other materials.

Nylon is also relatively inexpensive, making it a great option for budget-conscious backpackers. It can be prone to snagging and tearing though, so if you’re looking for something with more strength, you may want to consider other materials.

Cordura is a type of nylon fabric that has been treated with a special finish that makes it even more durable than regular nylon. It also has excellent water-resistance properties and won’t snag or tear easily. But because of its strength and durability, cordura usually costs slightly more than regular nylon.

Canvas is another popular fabric used in backpacks. It’s strong and durable, but not as lightweight as nylon or cordura. Canvas does have excellent water-resistance properties though, so if you need a pack that can handle wet conditions, canvas might be the way to go.

Leather is a classic choice for backpacks because of its durability and classic look. Leather packs are also known for their ability to last many years without needing any repairs or maintenance. The downside of leather is that it can be heavy and expensive compared to other materials.

Conclusion:

When deciding which fabric is best for backpacking, it really depends on what type of conditions you’ll be facing on your journey. For wetter climates or longer trips where weight isn’t an issue, canvas or leather may be the better choices due to their superior water-resistance and durability. For lighter trips or drier climates however, nylon or cordura are probably the better options due to their lighter weight and lower cost.