Cordura
High-performance nylon fabric known for exceptional abrasion resistance and durability. Used in military, workwear, and luggage.
Material Score Breakdown
7-axis material rubric, not a garment verdict — see disclosure below.
How long the fabric lasts with regular use
Softness, feel against skin, wearability
Air flow and ventilation
Heat retention and insulation
Ability to pull sweat away from skin
Environmental impact of production and disposal
How easy it is to wash, dry, and maintain
Products with cordura
We don't have any garments containing cordura in our catalog yet. Browse the full synthetic materials or check the product catalog.
What this score doesn't measure
This is a material rating, not a verdict on any specific garment made from cordura. The axes above are research-backed averages for the fiber itself.
- ×Construction. Yarn staple length, weave / knit structure, stitch count, finishing. Identical fiber, very different garments.
- ×Fabric weight (GSM). A 140 GSM tee and a 220 GSM tee made of the same cordura feel and last very differently.
- ×Dye + finishing chemicals. Beyond the three we flag (PFAS, formaldehyde, antimony), dozens of textile finishes aren't modelled.
Best Uses
Excellent for workwear and tactical gear
Pros
- ✓ Extremely abrasion-resistant
- ✓ Tear-resistant
- ✓ Long-lasting
- ✓ Water-resistant
Cons
- ✗ Stiff and uncomfortable
- ✗ Heavy
- ✗ Not breathable
- ✗ Industrial appearance
Better alternatives
Higher-scored synthetic materials. Same category — what to consider instead.
+16 vs Cordura · 76/100
Membrane technology that is waterproof yet breathable. A laminate applied to other fabrics rather than a fabric itself.
+15 vs Cordura · 75/100
Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber — the world's strongest fiber by weight. 15x stronger than steel, used in cut-resistant gear, ultralight backpacks, and high-performance sails.
+14 vs Cordura · 74/100
Waterproof breathable membrane fabric (Gore-Tex, eVent, or similar technology) laminated to a face fabric. The gold standard for rain and storm protection in technical outerwear.
Care Guide
Special Notes
• Spot clean when possible
• Air dry — avoid heat
Additional Care Tips
- • Machine wash cold (30°C/85°F) on normal cycle — Cordura is tough enough for regular washing
- • Air dry or tumble dry on low heat — avoid high heat which can damage nylon coatings
- • Spot clean when possible to extend time between full washes
- • Avoid dry cleaning — the solvents can strip DWR coatings and protective treatments
- • Iron on low heat if absolutely necessary, but Cordura rarely needs ironing
- • Reapply DWR spray after washing if the fabric has a water-repellent finish
Cost
$$$$$
Mid-range
Shrinkage
Won't shrink with normal washing
Eco Rating
High environmental impact