Have you ever examined a made-for-purpose work jacket or trousers? The fabric is probably reinforced and woven with a grid-type pattern. That grid likely indicates reinforced ripstop fabric. For brands and B2B buyers, understanding ripstop fabric can help inform the decision to buy high-quality uniforms. Ripstop fabric uses a reinforcement technique that allows it to be lightweight while also being incredibly strong. Basic fabric is woven in a straightforward fashion. Ripstop fabric has a complex pattern. There are threads woven in a crosshatch manner. This pattern allows ripstop fabric to have a grid look.
The grid in ripstop fabric has a functional purpose. It contains tears. Since threads are woven crosshatch, tears in the fabric can only expand to the next grid square. This makes sure that a small hole in the fabric does not make the fabric unusable. Ripstop fabric can be made of a variety of materials like nylon or even cotton. Ripstop fabric uses the same weaving method regardless of the material. The structural strength of ripstop fabric is not because of the thickness of ripstop fabric. Most other fabrics are victim to ripping because of weak spots. When a weak spot is in traditional fabrics, fabric will continue to rip in the direction of the threads. This will not happen to ripstop fabric. Ripstop fabric will not lose its structural integrity if it is thin. This fabric will remain flexible and breathable. This is great for workers who have to use this material for long periods of time.
Why Do Workwear Manufacturers Use Ripstop Fabric?
Every day, workwear has to handle a lot. Workwear gets put in tough situations using work tools, dealing with tough surfaces, handling heavy materials and constant movement. Because of this, the first priority for workwear gets put on the durability of the clothing. Ripstop fabric has the durability workwear needs.
Below, you can find the leading reasons why ripstop fabric is used in industrial and safety clothing.
It’s Tough
Ripstop fabric is very hard to tear. This makes it a great fabric choice for clothing that needs to stand up and survive in tough situations. Because of this, workwear gets made with ripstop fabric. Over time, this creates savings for businesses, as they don’t need to order clothing replacements as often.
It’s Lightweight
Heavy, bulky work fabrics slow down employees. Ripstop fabric is lightweight, flexible and strong. Being lightweight and flexible fabric means employees are more comfortable, and ultimately do better work.
It’s Versatile
Ripstop fabric is versatile in how it can adapted and changed. It can easily be used in a work uniform that needs to be water or flame resistant. It can also be used in breathing workwear.
It’s Easy to Customize
Ripstop fabric has a strong surface which makes it easy to design, add logos and tape. This means workwear safety standards can be met without compromising the integrity of the fabric.
What Products Use Ripstop Fabric?
Ripstop is a flexible fabric that gets used in a myriad of applications. Typical programs that utilize ripstop fabric consist of:
- Strong pants and cargo pants
- Construction workwear designed to be abrasion resistant
- Lightweight jackets and other layers
- Industrial workwear designed for work in factories and warehouses
- Waterproof workwear when combined with protective coatings
Ripstop fabric can also be seen in outdoor equipment, military apparel and travel gear. Ripstop fabric is a go to fabric in applications that require both.
What Makes Ripstop a Good Choice for Your Workwear Line?
Ripstop fabric is the right choice for the vast majority of workwear programs. This fabric choice is the right choice for a majority of clients and customers, as the construction crew will require very different features than an office-based service team.
Choosing the right fabric should never be an arbitrary choice. The construction crew will require very different features than an office-based service team, and ripstop will be the perfect fabric choice for both of those work environments.
Conclusion
Ripstop fabric earns its place in workwear for good reason. Its clever grid construction stops tears, keeps garments light, and supports a wide range of protective finishes. For buyers who care about durability and value, it remains one of the smartest material choices available. If you want help selecting the best fabrics around for your industry to plan a new uniform line, the Eco Jersey team helps you design long-lasting, robust, custom workwear you need.
FAQs
Is ripstop fabric waterproof?
By itself, no. Ripstop does not block water, although it helps construct great waterproof workwear or outdoor products due to its build. Like any fabric, manufacturers can construct ripstop with a waterproof coating or a watertight laminate.
Is ripstop fabric strong despite being lightweight?
Ripstop fabric is lightweight and strong. Other fabrics build strength with thickness, which causes ripstop to struggle against tears, but ripstop’s grid weave helps construct a lightweight fabric that can be used in tough work environments.
Can ripstop fabric be used for flame-resistant workwear?
Ripstop fabric can blend with flame-resistant treatments and fibers and is often the fabric of choice for flexible base layer protective clothing. This, along with its use in many workwear categories, helps construct a robust fabric.
How do you care for ripstop workwear?
Ripstop workwear can be easily cared for by washing on a gentle cycle, no harsh bleach, and don’t use high heat to dry. This helps construct a workwear fabric for ripstop that retains shape while helping your clothing assist you in daily work.
