Cordura is a fabric that is used in a wide variety of items. These items range from luggage and backpacks to trousers and military wear.
This fabric is extremely durable and is resistant to tearing and scuffing and it is also water resistant. It is specifically designed for lightweight durability and weighs just over 10 oz per yard of fabric. It is extremely soft and breathable making it a comfortable fabric explaining why it is coveted by many.
It was originally developed by the company DuPont in 1929 as a rayon type fabric. During World War II the fabric was advanced and being used by the military for manufacturing tires. In the 1960’s Cordura was transferred to a nylon product and when researchers discovered that the fabric can be dyed, it opened up a whole new commercial market. Luggage was being made using Cordura by companies such as Jan Sport. They began using the material in their original backpacks, and still continue to use it today.
Beyond being used in World War II, the fabric is still used extensively by the military and in law enforcement. It is also used in motorcycle clothing and is a top fabric choice when looking for a product that can handle some roughing. This is a high performance fabric that is over 10 times more durable than cotton, twice as durable as your standard nylon and three times as durable than polyester. Airplanes are sometimes upholstered with this fabric which takes a beating every day, year after year.
Cleaning cordura is easy. If you are washing apparel, you can wash it in the washing machine with cold water and with a mild detergent that has no bleach or chlorine. To dry, you can use the dryer on a low heat setting or air drying.
If you happen to get your bags or luggage dirty, pre-treat the stain with a stain remover or dry-cleaning solvent and let is soak for an hour or so. Mix warm water (8oz) with a mild detergent (1tbsp) in a spray bottle, and spray on the stained area. Use a brush to work the solution into the fabric. Use a cloth with cool water, wring out the cloth and wipe away the soap residue. Let the bag air dry.