What Is Cordura®? A Guide to Cordura Fabric, Its History & Where to Buy It
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What Is Cordura Fabric?
Cordura is a collection of fabric technologies designed for high-performance applications. According to the official Cordura website, these fabrics are used in luggage, backpacks, workwear, military gear and performance apparel due to their superior resistance to abrasions, tears and scuffs.
True Cordura fabrics are made from air-jet textured nylon or polyester yarns produced by INVISTA™, a subsidiary of Koch Industries known for its innovative polymer and textile production. Only genuine Cordura fabric is made with INVISTA yarns, ensuring its rugged durability and long-lasting performance. While Cordura offers a variety of materials, from ballistic nylon to wool blends, they all share a reputation for being tough, durable and built to withstand extreme conditions.
A Brief History of Cordura Material
Cordura has been a trusted name in high-performance fabrics for over five decades. Here’s a look at how it became a go-to choice for durable textiles:
The Early Days (1967-1970s)
Cordura began as a high-tenacity nylon fabric in 1967. By the 1970s, it was widely used in workwear and outdoor gear due to its exceptional tear strength and abrasion resistance. Popular backpack brands like Jansport® and Eastpak® adopted Cordura for their durable bags, making it a favorite among adventurers and travelers.
The 1980s: Expansion & Innovation
In the 1980s, Cordura fabrics gained traction in everyday products. Manhattan Portage® introduced messenger bags made with Cordura nylon, and the material was further enhanced with the launch of Cordura® Plus 1000D and 500D fabrics. These developments made Cordura a staple in the luggage, bag and outdoor gear industries. During this time, the first single-step texturing machine for nylon yarns was established in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
The 1990s & Military Adoption
By the 1990s, Cordura had solidified its place in workwear and outdoor apparel. A major partnership with Carhartt® led to the creation of the Carhartt Extremes line, incorporating Cordura into high-durability outerwear. The U.S. military also adopted Cordura 1000D fabric for combat boots, replacing traditional leather with a lighter, more resilient alternative. Over the years, Cordura has been used by brands like Nike™, the U.S. Marine Corps and top backpack manufacturers.
Cordura Today
Today, Cordura fabrics continue to evolve with advanced technology and new applications. The brand celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2017 and remains a top choice for those needing high-performance materials. Cordura is commonly found in:
- Backpacks and travel gear
- Outdoor and tactical wear
- Military boots, packs and uniforms
- Soft-sided luggage
- Motorcycle gear and footwear
- Horse blankets
- Briefcases and wallets
Why Choose Cordura Fabric?
Cordura stands out for its impressive strength and resilience. Here are some key benefits that make it a superior choice:
- High durability: Resistant to abrasions, tears and scuffs.
- Water repellency: Features a polyurethane coating and durable water-repellent finish.
- Mold and mildew resistance: Ideal for outdoor and marine environments.
- Quick-drying and easy to clean: Requires minimal maintenance.
- Military-grade toughness: Some Cordura fabrics are Berry Compliant, meaning they’re made in the USA and approved for U.S. military use.
Understanding Cordura Denier Ratings
Cordura fabrics are categorized by denier (D), which measures fiber thickness. A higher denier means a thicker, sturdier fabric:
- Cordura 1000D: Heavy-duty and ultra-durable for rugged applications.
- Cordura 500D: Lighter and more flexible, offering a balance of strength and versatility.
Where to Buy Cordura Fabric
If you're wondering where to buy Cordura, Sailrite is your go-to source for high-quality Cordura materials. We offer a variety of Cordura fabrics tailored for different projects:
Cordura Classic 500D & 1000D: The standard choice for backpacks, duffle bags, military gear and outdoor equipment.
Cordura 1000D & 500D Mil-Spec: Meets strict military specifications (DTL-32439A) and is solution-dyed for UV resistance.
Cordura HP: A 915 x 1220 denier polyester fabric that’s soft yet durable, ideal for printed backpacks, luggage, pet products and travel accessories.
For a detailed comparison, check our out blog, “Choosing the Right Cordura Fabric for Your DIY Project,” to help you choose the best option for your needs.
Shop Cordura Fabric at Sailrite
Final Thoughts
Now that you know what Cordura fabric is, its history and why it's a top choice for rugged applications, you can confidently select the right material for your next project. Whether you’re making a durable backpack, protective gear or military-grade apparel, Cordura offers unmatched strength and performance.
Shop high-quality Cordura fabrics today at Sailrite and experience the durability that professionals and outdoor enthusiasts trust!
