---
type: "fabric"
name: "Moleskin"
slug: "moleskin"
fabric_family: "woven"
construction: "twill"
typical_fibers:
  - "Cotton"
weight_gsm: "300–500 g/m²"
price_tier: 3
url: "https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/moleskin"
updated: "2025-09-08T02:19:12.625869+00:00"
---

# Moleskin

Moleskin is a durable, heavy cotton fabric with a soft, brushed surface, typically used for outerwear and workwear.

- **Fabric Family**: Woven
- **Construction**: Twill
- **Typical Fibers**: Cotton
- **Weight**: 300–500 g/m²
- **Thickness**: 0.5–1.2 mm
- **Typical Width**: 150 cm
- **Price Tier**: $$$ (3 of 5)

## About Moleskin

Moleskin is a tightly woven cotton fabric characterized by its unique twill construction, which provides strength and durability. The fabric is brushed on one side, giving it a soft, suede-like texture that is both warm and comfortable against the skin. Moleskin is known for its wind-resistant properties and is often used in the production of trousers, jackets, and other outerwear. Its robust nature makes it suitable for workwear and outdoor applications.

## Woven Properties

- **Ends per Inch (EPI)**: 40
- **Picks per Inch (PPI)**: 30

## Stretch Properties

- **Warp Stretch**: 0%
- **Weft Stretch**: 0%

## Performance Properties

- **Air Permeability**: 5 CFM
- **Hydrostatic Head**: 100 mm
- **Spray Rating**: 0
- **Evaporative Resistance (Ret)**: 5
- **Thermal Resistance (Rct)**: 0.15
- **UPF Rating**: 15

## Appearance & Hand

- **Luster**: Semi Matte
- **Opacity**: Opaque
- **Surface Texture**: brushed
- **Hand & Drape**: Balanced

## Performance Features

- Windproof
- Water Resistant
- Durable

## Common Finishes

- Brushed
- Sanforized
- Water Repellent DWR

## Common Applications

- Trousers
- Jackets
- Workwear
- Outdoor Clothing

## Common Uses in Detail

### Trousers & Jackets

Its heavyweight [Twill](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/twill) construction and brushed surface make it ideal for sturdy trousers and jackets. The dense weave resists wind and light moisture, while the soft nap provides comfort against the skin during prolonged outdoor wear.

### Workwear & Uniforms

Favored in demanding trade environments, this fabric's exceptional durability and abrasion resistance hold up to daily physical labor. Its robust [Cotton](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/cotton) construction maintains shape and structure wash after wash, making it a reliable choice for work trousers, overalls, and utility jackets.

### Outdoor Clothing

For hiking and country pursuits, the fabric's wind-resistant weave and insulating brushed interior offer practical protection against the elements. Its natural [Cotton](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/cotton) composition allows breathability on the trail, while the tough surface shrugs off brambles and rough terrain with ease.

## Care Instructions

Machine wash cold with similar colors. Iron on medium heat. Do not bleach or tumble dry.

- Washing 30°C
- Ironing Medium
- Do Not Bleach
- Do Not Tumble Dry

## Additional Information

Moleskin is often favored for its durability and comfort, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals in rugged environments.

- **Regional Names**: Moleskin (UK), Cotton moleskin (US)
- **Sourcing Regions**: China, Turkey, India, Italy
- **Testing Standards**: Martindale/Rub count, Pilling, Colorfastness to wash, Seam slippage, Tear strength

## Fibers in This Fabric

- [Cotton](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/cotton.md)

## Similar Fabrics

- [Bedford Cord](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/bedford-cord.md) — Woven
- [Birdseye](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/birdseye.md) — Woven
- [Boutis](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/boutis.md) — Woven
- [Cavalry Twill](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/cavalry-twill.md) — Woven
- [Cheviot](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/cheviot.md) — Woven

---
*Source: [Fabric Atlas](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/moleskin) — HTML version of this page.*