Backpacks are everywhere, and it’s no wonder. They free our hands. They keep a lot of things. They just give us a sense of freedom knowing that we can throw our stuff in and walk away.
However, a backpack is only as good as the materials it is made from.
Matching your needs with a backpack made from the right materials will help ensure your backpack will serve you for years to come.
Let’s take a look at the most common backpack shell materials.
Canvas
In the beginning, most backpacks were made of cotton canvas. These backpacks were often made waterproof with a coating of wax. Unfortunately, these backpacks were often heavy and prone to rot if stored wet.
Today there is a resurgence of interest in cute backpacks made from modern canvas. Duffel packs are now very popular with college students, hikers, and professionals.
Modern canvas is often a combination of natural and synthetic materials that reduce weight, increase strength, wick away moisture, and prevent rotting.
Polyester (sometimes referred to as Pack Cloth)
Backpacks for kids and teens are often made from a combination of materials, including polyester. Polyester is not the strongest material for a backpack, but it is usually strong and durable enough for small children. Backpacks made from polyester are affordable, hold color well (meaning they can be very vibrant in color), can come in different textures, and are sometimes machine washable. In general, canvas and nylon are stronger and more durable than polyester.
600D and 1200D polyester
Many backpacks are made from 600D polyester (“D” is for denier). Many sturdier backpacks for hiking or camping are made from 1200D polyester. The thickness of 1200D polyester yarns is twice that of 600D bundles. If you are looking for strength, a backpack made of 1200D is better. If you want a lighter backpack that has a softer fabric, choose 600D. For most students looking for a backpack, the 600D will prove durable and stylish, and a better deal than a comparable backpack made from 1200D polyester.
Ripstop Nylon
Often found in backpacks used for camping, ripstop nylon has replaced regular nylon in recent years. Standard nylon has a tendency to continue to tear when torn or punctured. Nylon ripstop has a grid pattern of thick threads sewn into the fabric to prevent rips from aggravating. One of the main advantages of nylon is its excellent waterproofing.
Cordura-Nylon
It is a special nylon used mainly in high-end backpacks for its strength and resistance to abrasion. You won’t see it used as much on lower-end backpacks. Typically, you’ll see these types of nylons as serious backpacks made for adventure.