---
type: "fabric"
name: "Ripstop (Apparel)"
slug: "ripstop-apparel"
fabric_family: "laminate_coated"
construction: "laminated"
subtype: "laminated"
typical_fibers:
  - "Nylon"
  - "Polyester"
weight_gsm: "60–150 g/m²"
price_tier: 3
url: "https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/ripstop-apparel"
updated: "2025-09-08T02:24:08.9461+00:00"
---

# Ripstop (Apparel)

Ripstop fabric is a lightweight, durable textile characterized by its grid pattern of reinforced threads, providing excellent tear resistance and strength, commonly used in outdoor apparel.

- **Fabric Family**: Laminate Coated
- **Construction**: Laminated
- **Subtype**: laminated
- **Typical Fibers**: Nylon, Polyester
- **Weight**: 60–150 g/m²
- **Thickness**: 0.2–0.5 mm
- **Typical Width**: 150 cm
- **Price Tier**: $$$ (3 of 5)

## About Ripstop (Apparel)

Ripstop fabric is constructed using a unique weaving technique that incorporates thicker threads at regular intervals, creating a grid pattern that enhances durability and prevents rips from spreading. Typically made from nylon or polyester fibers, this fabric is often laminated to provide additional water resistance and windproof qualities. Its lightweight nature makes it ideal for outdoor gear, including jackets, pants, and bags, where both durability and weight are critical.

## Woven Properties

- **Ends per Inch (EPI)**: 20
- **Picks per Inch (PPI)**: 15

## Stretch Properties

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

## Performance Properties

- **Air Permeability**: 5 CFM
- **Hydrostatic Head**: 1500 mm
- **Spray Rating**: 80
- **Evaporative Resistance (Ret)**: 5
- **Thermal Resistance (Rct)**: 0.15
- **UPF Rating**: 30

## Appearance & Hand

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

## Performance Features

- Waterproof
- Windproof
- Tear Resistant
- Lightweight

## Common Finishes

- DWR Durable Water Repellent
- Coated
- Anti Microbial

## Common Applications

- Outdoor Jackets
- Tents
- Backpacks
- Lightweight Pants
- Sportswear

## Common Uses in Detail

### Outdoor Jackets & Pants

Its reinforced grid structure makes ripstop ideal for hiking and shell jackets as well as lightweight pants. The fabric resists tearing from snags on branches or rocks, while remaining light enough for packable, high-movement outdoor apparel.

### Backpacks & Gear Bags

Ripstop's exceptional tear resistance and low weight make it a top choice for backpacks and stuff sacks. Even under heavy loads or repeated abrasion on trails, the interlocking reinforcement threads prevent small punctures from spreading into larger tears.

### Sportswear & Activewear

Athletes benefit from ripstop's durability and minimal bulk in performance shorts, track pants, and training vests. The fabric holds up to intense movement and friction during sport without adding unnecessary weight, keeping wearers agile and comfortable.

## Care Instructions

Machine wash cold with similar colors, do not bleach, tumble dry on low heat, iron on low setting if needed.

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

## Additional Information

Ripstop fabrics are highly favored in the outdoor industry due to their ability to withstand harsh conditions while remaining lightweight. The grid pattern not only adds to the aesthetic but also enhances the structural integrity of the fabric.

- **Regional Names**: Ripstop Nylon, Ripstop Polyester
- **Sourcing Regions**: China, Taiwan, Vietnam, India
- **Testing Standards**: AATCC 22 (Water Repellency), ISO 811 (Water Resistance), ASTM D5034 (Tear Strength), ISO 12945 (Pilling)

## 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

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