Cordura

Cordura is a brand of synthetic fiber-based fabrics known for their durability and use in demanding applications such as luggage, backpacks, military wear, and motorcycle apparel. Cordura fabrics have earned a reputation for strength, abrasion resistance, and versatility, making them a staple in both consumer and industrial products.

Cordura Has Brand Overview

Cordura is a brand of synthetic fiber-based fabrics used in products such as luggage, backpacks, trousers, military wear, and performance apparel. Cordura was developed and trademarked by E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (DuPont) in 1929; it is now owned by Invista, a subsidiary of Koch Industries. Cordura stands out for its ability to withstand wear and tear in challenging environments, which is why it is chosen for gear that faces repeated use and stress.

Cordura Has Development History

Cordura originated as a type of rayon, a semi-synthetic fiber made from regenerated cellulose. DuPont introduced Cordura in response to a request from a rubber company seeking a rayon yarn stronger than cotton for tire cords. DuPont scientists and engineers collaborated to develop high-tenacity rayon, which by 1948 was advertised as “as strong as mild steel yet able to stand up under repeated flexing”.

Cordura’s development involved innovations in spinning techniques, textile finishing, and adhesive technology to enhance fiber strength and bonding. The process included precise control of temperature and humidity, as well as the use of specialized rollers to increase filament tension. Tires made with Cordura rayon were less bulky, cooler running, and offered greater mileage under adverse conditions.

Cordura Has Expansion And Evolution

Cordura was further developed during World War II and found use in military vehicle tires. By 1966, the Cordura brand name was transferred to nylon products, reflecting advances in synthetic fiber technology. Eastpak was the first brand to use Cordura fabric in luggage, and by 1979, soft-sided Cordura luggage made up about 40 percent of the luggage market.

JanSport used Cordura nylon in its original daypacks in the 1970s and later switched to polyester Cordura. In the 1980s, 1000 denier (D) Cordura nylon became popular for duffle bags and other rugged items. European workwear brands adopted 1000D and 500D Cordura for garment reinforcements in the 1990s. Today, Cordura is widely used in textile motorcycle jackets and pants for abrasion resistance.

Cordura Has Variants And Applications

Cordura fabrics come in different weights, appearances, tear resistance levels, and color retention properties. Cordura Baselayer, Cordura Denim, and Cordura Duck are blends that combine Invista 420D nylon 6,6 fiber with cotton, offering specific performance for base layers, denim, and canvas applications. Some Cordura fabrics are designed for military and extended outdoor use, meeting the needs of professionals and adventurers alike.

Cordura Has Ownership By Invista And Koch Industries

Cordura is currently owned by Invista, a subsidiary of Koch Industries. Invista manages the development, marketing, and licensing of Cordura fabrics globally. The brand’s association with Koch Industries connects it to one of the world’s largest privately held companies, with diverse interests in chemicals, fibers, and manufacturing.

Cordura Has Lasting Impact

Cordura’s legacy is built on scientific innovation, collaboration, and adaptation to new materials and markets. The fabric’s ability to deliver strength, abrasion resistance, and versatility has kept it relevant for nearly a century. Whether in military gear, luggage, or motorcycle apparel, Cordura continues to set the standard for rugged textile performance.

Citations: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cordura

Cordura (Wikipedia)

This article is about fabrics. For the film, see They Came to Cordura.

Not to be confused with ripstop.

This article is missing information about weaves and weights of Cordura. Please expand the article to include this information. Further details may exist on the talk page. (January 2025)

Cordura is a brand of synthetic fiber-based fabrics used in products such as luggage, backpacks, trousers, military wear, and performance apparel.

Cordura was developed and trademarked by E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (DuPont) in 1929; it is currently owned by Invista, a subsidiary of Koch Industries.