Benson Li
Dec 9, 20233 min
When you're shopping for a backpack or bag online, you often encounter technical fabric terms that might seem overwhelming. Today, we aim to simplify one commonly used material, 600D Polyester.
600D Polyester is a durable synthetic fabric commonly used in bag and pack manufacturing. 'D' stands for Denier, a unit of measure indicating fiber thickness and weight. Therefore, a higher denier count signifies a bulkier, stronger fabric. Hence, 600D Polyester is a robust and sturdy material well-suited for items that require durability.
One of the key selling points of 600D Polyester is its durability. We have put 600D Polyester to the test in our Fabric Strength Challenge and Abrasion Resistance Test. Feel free to check these out to gauge its robustness for yourself.
600 x 600D refers to a double-layered weave, each layer having a 600 Denier count, resulting in a denser, more robust fabric material. This distinguishes it from the single layer of 600D fabric, providing it with a different thickness and texture.
While 600D is often associated with Polyester, it isn't exclusive to this material. The term '600D' simply refers to the weight and thickness of the fibers used in the fabric, hence, it can apply to Nylon, another synthetic fabric.
Polyester, by itself, isn't inherently waterproof. However, 600D Polyester bags often undergo special coating processes (like PU or PVC backing) to enhance their water resistance.
600D Polyester can be manufactured from either new or recycled material. Using recycled material to produce 600D Polyester—often derived from plastic water bottles—is part of an ongoing trend towards sustainability.
Due to its tight weave and higher Denier count, 600D Polyester isn't very breathable. However, bag designs often circumvent this by incorporating breathable sections or using mesh material.
Because of its exceptional tensile strength and durability, 600D Polyester is an excellent choice for backpacks, luggage, outdoor furniture, and various kinds of apparel.
A product constructed from 600D polyester does not inherently mean it's cheap or of low quality. 600D polyester stands as a popular choice for outdoor gears owing to its durability, providing a balance between weight and cost effectiveness.
The term "better" truly depends on specific needs. While higher Denier materials like 1000D Nylon are more robust, they're also heavier and more expensive. Therefore, the "best" material depends on the desired balance between durability, weight, and expense.
For tactical gear such as bags and packs, while heavy-duty fabrics like 1000D or 1050D Nylon are often used, they can be heavy. Presently, many brands opt for 500D Nylon, especially 500D Nylon Cordura. This ensures durability and lightweight properties, catering to the functional needs of tactical gear.
The PU (Polyurethane) or PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) backing on fabrics serves a dual purpose. While it enhances a fabric’s water resistance, it also keeps the fabric knit intact, improving its durability. Specifically, PVC backing enhances the fabric's resistance quite visibly.
By demystifying these technical terms, we wish you a more delightful, well-informed shopping experience. Stay tuned for more fabric explanations in our upcoming blog posts!