What kind of fabric should be used for a backpack?

Table of Contents

1.Overview and Introduction of Core Fabric

Backpacks, as indispensable products in our daily lives, have liberated our hands, allowing us to carry our daily necessities to various places. At this point, we have a question for the backpack manufacturers: What kind of fabric should be used for backpack manufacturing?

1.1The three classic fabrics: nylon, polyester fiber and canvas

In the field of backpack manufacturing, nylon, polyester fiber and canvas are the three most frequently used fabrics. Each of them has its own unique properties, which have resulted in different product attributes and different market positioning.

Nylon：Nylon is one of the earliest synthetic fibers to have emerged in the world. It is renowned for its lightweight, high strength and wear-resistant properties. Compared to other fabrics, nylon has better elasticity recovery ability, excellent dyeing and moisture absorption properties, and a softer hand feel than polyester fibers. Nylon is widely used in the manufacturing of outdoor sports backpacks and daily commuting backpacks that require strict requirements for lightweight and durability. However, its high water content results in a relatively slow drying speed.
Polyester：Polyester fiber is also a commonly used artificial fiber. Its greatest advantage is that it is extremely strong and durable, does not wrinkle easily, does not fade easily, is convenient to wash, dries quickly. Compared with nylon, polyester fiber has poorer water absorption, so it has better sweat-wicking ability, and is particularly suitable for making sportswear and backpacks. Previously, polyester fibers might have felt a bit rough to the touch. But now, with advancements in textile technology, there are polyester fibers available on the market that have a texture similar to nylon. As a result, polyester fibers not only perform well but also are more comfortable to wear and more attractive. Moreover, it is highly heat-resistant and is particularly suitable for thermal transfer and digital printing. This enables backpacks to be printed with various patterns and colors.
Canvas ：Canvas is a kind of old fashioned plain weave fabric. Its main features are its thickness, durability and breathability. It is a completely natural and environmentally friendly fabric, extremely sturdy and durable, and has a versatile style, which is why it is particularly popular among young people. Although canvas is prone to getting dirty and not as durable as nylon, its unique texture, combined with its ease of printing, makes it quite popular in the fields of casual and fashionable backpacks. Some of the canvas is even waxed, which can provide a bit of water resistance.

1.2 High-performance and Emerging Technology Fabrics: From Cordura to X-PAC、

Nowadays, the requirements for equipment are getting higher and higher. It needs to be not only highly functional but also professional. Therefore, a bunch of very impressive materials have emerged, among which the most famous ones are Cordura and XPAC. Cordura is actually an upgraded version of nylon fabric. It is much more durable and resistant to tearing than ordinary fabrics. It was originally designed for the military, but later it was found to be lightweight and sturdy, so it began to be used in items like luggage, backpacks, and work clothes.

Cordura is usually coated with a PU layer to make it more waterproof. As a result, professional backpacks that require carrying are all fond of using it. X-PAC® is a new fabric that combines canvas technology. Its remarkable feature lies in its structure, which is typically composed of three or more layers pressed together. In simple terms, the surface fabric, threads, lining fabric, and polyester fiber adhesive layer are bonded together using a special method. This enables it to be lightweight, durable, tear-resistant, and highly waterproof. The performance of X-PAC can meet the needs whether you are going on an outdoor adventure or commuting in the city. It should be both high in performance and lightweight, capable of protecting things. According to the Daniel number (Denier), the X-PAC fabric can be used in various situations. For example, the VX42 model is suitable for high-intensity outdoor activities and long-distance travels.

1. 3. Sustainable fabrics are becoming popular: rPET and recycled fibers

Nowadays, people are paying more and more attention to environmental protection, and climate change is also quite worrying. Therefore, the rise of sustainable fabrics is not only due to the need for environmental protection, but also indicates that material technology is moving in new directions. Among them, rPET (which is recycled polyester fiber) can be regarded as the leader.

The rPET fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles using yarn. This recycling technology can reduce the use of natural resources such as petroleum, and also significantly reduce carbon emissions during production. For example, making a 22-liter backpack typically requires 37 used plastic bottles, which can reduce carbon emissions by 932.4 grams, which is beneficial for controlling the greenhouse effect. It can also reduce air and water pollution caused by burning or landfilling old clothes and plastic waste.

Moreover, sustainable fabrics are no longer just environmentally friendly. The new generation of recycled fibers not only have a positive environmental impact, but also perform no worse than traditional fabrics, and some even better. Take rPET fabric for example, it is lightweight, durable, dirt-resistant, has low water absorption, is wear-resistant, resistant to mold, resistant to stains, and easy to clean. There are also some high-end sustainable fabrics, such as ECOPAK™, which is made entirely of 100% recycled polyester fibers. It lasts for an extremely long time, has low moisture absorption, good UV resistance and color durability, and is an ideal combination of sustainability and high performance. So, sustainable fabrics are not lowering standards now; instead, they offer consumers better and more valuable choices.

1.4.Structure and Function of Fabrics: Taking waterproof technology as an example

The material of the backpack – it’s not just about the type of fiber used, but also about the subsequent processing and structural design. Take waterproofing for example – this is a crucial factor.
The common waterproof breathable fabrics are made by layering several pieces of fabric and then bonding them together with membranes, using methods such as heating or adhesives, to form a single sheet. The number of layers directly affects its durability, breathability, and overall performance. There are several common stacking methods:

Two-layered structure: This is the simplest form. There is one layer of film on top of another layer. Usually, a backing material needs to be added to protect the film layer.
Two and a half layers of overlap: It is more than two layers but less than three layers. A protective layer is applied on the membrane to prevent it from getting damaged.
Three-layer construction: This is the most common type of high-performance waterproof clothing, which is more durable and also more breathable.
*Four-layered stacking: For items like shoes, if you need something more sturdy and durable, use this type.

When you look at it this way, waterproofing is not just about saying it’s waterproof. For outdoor enthusiasts, they definitely need to equip themselves with something that can withstand heavy rain. So, they should use the three-layered type. For office workers, a water-repellent coating is sufficient for light rain. By categorizing it this way, backpack manufacturers can design products specifically for different groups of people.

2.The relationship between the fabric and the user’s daily behavior

When it comes to choosing the fabric, it’s not just a technical task. It is closely related to the lifestyle, working style, values, and what one truly cares about of the person wearing it. In this chapter, let’s take four types of people as examples to explain how we can truly meet their needs when choosing fabric.

2.1The health burden on teenagers and students

The health problems of students are largely related to their schoolbags. After all, schoolbags are mainly used to hold textbooks and school supplies. However, whether a schoolbag is good or not is not just determined by its convenience. It also affects children’s health and safety.

The country has regulations that the ideal weight of a schoolbag should ideally not exceed 1 kilogram, and the total weight after being filled with items should not exceed 10% of the child’s weight. Otherwise, it is not good for the spine. Therefore, the material of the schoolbag is really important. Materials like light nylon and rPET can make the schoolbag lighter and reduce the burden on children when carrying books every day. These small choices actually directly affect the child’s health and can fundamentally prevent them from having spinal problems due to carrying too heavy books for a long time.

In addition, the chemical components in the schoolbag material are also crucial. Studies have shown that the formaldehyde content in the schoolbag and some transferable elements must comply with national standards. Otherwise, it is bad for the child’s health. Therefore, whether the schoolbag material is safe has now become a basic requirement for choosing a schoolbag. Also, it would be better if the schoolbag had reflective strips on it, which would improve safety. In poor lighting conditions, drivers and pedestrians would be more likely to see the children, making it safer for the children to go out.

Overall, for students, the material of the schoolbag really has a significant impact. This not only relates to whether it is comfortable to use, but also to their physical development and traffic safety.

2.2The efficiency and style of urban commuters

Office workers choose backpacks, and what they look for is something that is both practical and stylish. Both qualities must be present. The backpack they want should be able to handle various situations, be usable during work, and also suitable for carrying when they go out for fun after work. It also needs to be sturdy and durable, able to withstand the wind and sun in the city. So, the quality of the backpack’s fabric directly affects whether their daily commute is convenient and comfortable, and also influences the impression they give off.

Waterproofing is a must-have feature for commuting bags. Materials like nylon, polyester, and specially treated leather all offer excellent waterproof performance, effectively protecting the documents and electronic devices inside the bag. Even if it suddenly starts raining, you can carry it around with peace of mind. With this feature, it becomes much more convenient to use and gives you a greater sense of security. Also, the fabric being lightweight is very important. The lightweight nylon is not tiring to carry and the shoulders feel comfortable.

Apart from being practical, the texture and appearance of the fabric also need to be pleasing to the eye. Leather bags look professional and elegant, and are perfect for use at work. Nylon bags are neat and tidy, with a touch of technological feel. Denim and canvas are favored by freelancers and those engaged in creative work because they are comfortable to hold and have a more casual appearance. Wearing them in a shared office or coffee shop, they look very suitable. Therefore, backpacks are not only for carrying things, but also reflect a person’s taste and working state.

2.3The capabilities and safety of outdoor explorers

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, choosing the right fabric for the backpack is extremely important because it directly affects safety. The outdoor environment can change at any moment, with bad weather and complex terrain being common occurrences. Therefore, the equipment must be reliable. The quality of the backpack fabric directly determines whether we can complete the activities safely and smoothly.

First of all, it must be durable! Fabrics like high-density nylon, Cordura and X-PAC are particularly sturdy and unlikely to tear, with high strength. That means when we walk on the mountain path or carry a lot of things, the backpack won’t break easily. Choosing these fabrics ensures that the equipment won’t fail at critical moments.

Air permeability is also very important as it affects our comfort. Some professional backpacks leave gaps on the back to enhance air circulation, so even if you walk for a long time, you won’t feel stuffy. This is not only comfortable but also helps prevent skin problems.

Waterproofing and quick drying are also crucial. Choose fabrics with good waterproof properties (such as X-PAC, ECOPAK), so you won’t have to worry about sudden rain or snow, and ensure that the contents inside (especially the sleeping bag and clothes) are dry, avoiding hypothermia. Therefore, when choosing the fabric, not only should you consider whether it is sturdy, but also it should be able to handle various unexpected situations in the outdoors.

2.4The expression of individuality by fashion trend followers

Nowadays, for those who are keen on following the latest trends, a backpack is no longer just a container for storing things. It has become an important part of your overall look and style, reflecting your taste and personality. The material of the backpack directly affects its appearance and what it intends to convey.

The rough texture of denim fabric can instantly make simple clothes look very lively. Canvas and linen, because they appear plain and casual, can create a kind of Japanese or Korean-style artistic atmosphere. The smooth texture of leather and the luster of nylon represent classic and modern urban styles.

When different materials are combined together, the backpack can convey more meanings. By mixing nylon and metal, leather and canvas, a wonderful visual effect can be achieved, making the backpack less monotonous and also allowing you to showcase your unique personal taste. Moreover, the color of the materials, the patterns printed on them, and the design all enable you to freely express yourself. In our opinion, choosing materials is not just about whether they are durable or not; what’s more important is how people use them to express themselves and create their own style.

3.conclusion

Therefore, enterprises need to manufacture backpacks by tailoring different functional fabrics according to the varying customer groups. Of course, the HANSEN Group is a professional company specializing in manufacturing backpacks. It responds promptly to customer needs. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact our business representatives.