Is CORDURA® Really That Tough? The Truth About Workwear Fabrics!

The Genesis of CORDURA®

CORDURA® is not just a fabric; it's a brand synonymous with durability. Originally developed by DuPont in the 1920s, CORDURA® began as a type of rayon but underwent significant evolution over the decades. By the 1960s, it transitioned to a nylon-based fabric, marking a pivotal shift in its application and performance. Today, CORDURA® is predominantly crafted from high-tenacity nylon 6,6 filament yarns, renowned for their exceptional strength and resistance to wear and tear.

Understanding Fabric Strength: Denier Matters

In the realm of textiles, 'denier' (D) is a unit that measures the weight and thickness of fibres. A higher denier indicates a thicker, more robust fibre. CORDURA® fabrics are available in various deniers, with 500D and 1000D being the most prevalent in workwear applications. The 1000D variant offers superior tensile and tear strength, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications. However, it's essential to note that while a higher denier provides increased strength, it also adds weight to the fabric.

CORDURA® vs. The Rest: A Comparative Analysis

1. Ballistic Nylon

Originally developed for military body armour, ballistic nylon is engineered for maximum durability. It boasts a smooth finish and is typically heavier than CORDURA®. While ballistic nylon excels in tensile and tear strength, CORDURA® often surpasses it in abrasion resistance, making it more suitable for applications where surface wear is a primary concern.

2. Polyester Fabrics

Fabrics like 600D polyester are popular in various applications due to their cost-effectiveness and decent durability. However, when subjected to abrasion tests, 600D polyester exhibits moderate wear after extensive cycles, whereas 500D and 1000D CORDURA® nylons show very slight abrasion, highlighting their superior resilience.

3. Ripstop Fabrics

Ripstop fabrics are designed with a unique crosshatch pattern that prevents tears from spreading. While they offer excellent tear resistance and are lightweight, they may not match the abrasion resistance of CORDURA®, making them more suitable for applications where weight savings are crucial, and heavy abrasion is less of a concern.

Real-World Testing: CORDURA® in Action

Laboratory tests provide valuable insights, but real-world scenarios offer the ultimate litmus test for any fabric's durability. In one such test, a pack made from 400D and 800D fabrics was subjected to rigorous abrasion by dragging it over rough terrains. The 800D fabric emerged virtually unscathed, showcasing its exceptional toughness.

Practical Implications for Tradesmen

• Abrasion Resistance: CORDURA®'s superior abrasion resistance ensures longevity, even in the harshest working conditions, reducing the frequency of replacements.
• Tear Strength: Its high tensile strength means the fabric can withstand significant stress without tearing, offering protection against sharp tools and materials.
• Water Resistance: Many CORDURA® fabrics come with water-repellent coatings, keeping the wearer dry in damp environments.
• Comfort: Despite its ruggedness, CORDURA® maintains a level of flexibility, ensuring that workwear is not only durable but also comfortable for extended wear.

CORDURA® in Tauro Workwear Products

Recognising the exceptional qualities of CORDURA®, Tauro Workwear integrates this tough fabric into their robust workwear range:

• Ranger Workwear Stretch Trousers with Holster Pockets: Durable trousers reinforced with CORDURA® for maximum toughness.
• Outlaw Stretch Workwear Trousers: Combining stretch comfort and CORDURA® durability for daily demanding tasks.
• Rampage Workwear Trousers with Holster Pockets: Crafted with robust CORDURA® reinforcements in key stress points.

For more insights into choosing the right workwear, visit our blog on Choosing the Right Workwear for Your Trade.

Conclusion: Is CORDURA® Really That Tough?

The evidence, both from controlled tests and real-world applications, underscores CORDURA®'s reputation for toughness. Its unique composition and meticulous engineering consistently outperform many competitors. For tradesmen seeking durable, reliable workwear, CORDURA® indeed stands as a formidable choice, perfectly balancing durability, comfort, and practicality.