---
type: "fabric"
name: "Packcloth"
slug: "packcloth"
fabric_family: "laminate_coated"
construction: "laminated"
subtype: "laminated"
typical_fibers:
  - "Nylon"
  - "Polyester"
weight_gsm: "200–600 g/m²"
price_tier: 3
url: "https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/packcloth"
updated: "2025-09-08T02:20:26.867035+00:00"
---

# Packcloth

Packcloth is a durable, laminated fabric commonly used in outdoor gear and bags, known for its water resistance and strength.

- **Fabric Family**: Laminate Coated
- **Construction**: Laminated
- **Subtype**: laminated
- **Typical Fibers**: Nylon, Polyester
- **Weight**: 200–600 g/m²
- **Thickness**: 0.5–1.5 mm
- **Typical Width**: 150 cm
- **Price Tier**: $$$ (3 of 5)

## About Packcloth

Packcloth is a high-performance fabric typically constructed from nylon or polyester fibers, laminated with a waterproof coating. Its robust nature makes it ideal for applications requiring durability and resistance to the elements, such as backpacks, tents, and outdoor apparel. The lamination process enhances its water resistance and adds a layer of protection against abrasion, while maintaining a lightweight profile.

## Woven Properties

- **Ends per Inch (EPI)**: 50
- **Picks per Inch (PPI)**: 40

## Stretch Properties

- **Warp Stretch**: 5%
- **Weft Stretch**: 5%

## Performance Properties

- **Air Permeability**: 0.5 CFM
- **Hydrostatic Head**: 1500 mm
- **Spray Rating**: 80
- **Evaporative Resistance (Ret)**: 0.5
- **Thermal Resistance (Rct)**: 0.1
- **UPF Rating**: 30

## Appearance & Hand

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

## Performance Features

- Waterproof
- Tear Resistant
- Abrasion Resistant
- Lightweight
- Easy To Clean

## Common Finishes

- Waterproof Coating
- DWR Durable Water Repellent
- UV Resistant Treatment

## Common Applications

- Backpacks
- Tents
- Outdoor Apparel
- Gear Bags
- Luggage

## Common Uses in Detail

### Backpacks & Daypacks

Its exceptional abrasion resistance and water-repellent laminate make it the go-to choice for backpacks and daypacks. The fabric withstands heavy loads, rough handling, and exposure to the elements, ensuring gear stays protected on trail or commute.

### Tents & Shelters

Lightweight yet tough, this laminated fabric is widely used in tent floors and rain flys, where water resistance and tear strength are critical. It reliably blocks ground moisture and wind, keeping campers dry and sheltered in demanding outdoor conditions.

### Luggage & Gear Bags

Hard-wearing and easy to clean, it is a preferred material for soft-sided luggage, duffel bags, and equipment cases. Its laminated surface resists scuffs and spills during travel, while its high tensile strength supports heavy contents without deforming or tearing.

## Care Instructions

Machine wash cold with mild detergent. Do not use fabric softeners. Tumble dry on low heat to maintain water repellency.

- Machine Wash Cold
- Do Not Bleach
- Tumble Dry Low
- Iron Low

## Additional Information

Packcloth is favored in the outdoor industry for its balance of weight and durability, making it a go-to choice for high-performance gear.

- **Regional Names**: Packcloth (USA), Nylon Pack (UK)
- **Sourcing Regions**: China, Taiwan, Vietnam, USA
- **Testing Standards**: AATCC 127 (Waterproofness), ASTM D751 (Tear Strength), ISO 12945 (Pilling Resistance)

## Fibers in This Fabric

- [Nylon](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/nylon.md)
- [Polyester](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/polyester.md)

## Similar Fabrics

- [Lining Taffeta](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/lining-taffeta.md) — Laminate Coated
- [Shade Cloth](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/shade-cloth.md) — Laminate Coated
- [Bonded Fabric](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/bonded-fabric.md) — Laminate Coated
- [Conveyor Base Fabric](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/conveyor-base-fabric.md) — Laminate Coated
- [Felt-Backed Fabric](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/felt-backed-fabric.md) — Laminate Coated

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