Abrasion-resistant fabrics
Overview
Abrasion-resistant fabrics are textiles designed or selected to better withstand repeated friction and surface wear compared with standard materials of similar weight.
Key points
- Commonly used in high-wear zones such as pack bottoms, shoulder straps, and pant cuffs.
- Abrasion resistance is influenced by fiber type, weave structure, yarn thickness, and surface treatments.
- Higher abrasion resistance can add durability but may affect weight, cost, and fabric hand-feel.
Details
Abrasion-resistant fabrics are chosen for areas of hiking gear and clothing that experience frequent contact with rough surfaces, such as rock, soil, or pack hardware. Their durability comes from factors including fiber composition, yarn thickness, weave tightness, and any applied coatings or treatments. For example, tightly woven, heavier-denier fabrics typically resist surface wear better than lighter, more open weaves. Designers may combine different fabrics in one item, reserving abrasion-resistant materials for exposed zones while using lighter fabrics elsewhere to balance durability, comfort, and overall weight.
Related topics
Disclaimer: thruhikingwiki.com is an independent, informational reference only. It is not an official source for any trail association, land manager, park, agency, or guide service. Nothing on this site is legal, safety, medical, navigation, or professional advice, and it does not replace formal training or certified instruction. Thru-hiking and backcountry travel involve significant risk. Local regulations, land manager rules, and manufacturer instructions always take priority. You are solely responsible for your planning decisions, safety practices, and compliance with applicable laws. Use this site at your own risk.
Illustrative hiking footage
The following external videos offer general visual context for typical hiking environments. They are not official route recommendations, safety instructions, or planning tools.