3 FABRIC FEATURES THAT MATTER BETWEEN MAY AND SEPTEMBER
NYLON
Nylon is a type of thermoplastic, derived from petroleum, and was first used as an alternative to silk. It’s naturally resilient, water-resistant and stain-resistant, which makes it a great fabric for any outdoor garment that has to withstand nature’s furies.
WATER-RESISTANT VS. WATERPROOF
The two terms are not interchangeable. Fabrics that are water-resistant can fend off rain for only so long until it penetrates – and the harder it’s falling, the sooner it soaks through. Waterproof fabric keeps rain on the outside, where it belongs.
TAPED VS. WELDED SEAMS
A taped seam uses a stitched nylon cloth with a waterproof rubber backing to make the stitched area watertight. Welded seams avoid stitching altogether. By using glue, and heat-sealing the two edges of the fabric, the garment can be made watertight without the added bulk of stitching and tape.