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Webbing Material Selection Guide: Choosing the Right Type for Your Application

Choosing the correct webbing material is crucial in assuring the life-span, safety and customer satisfaction of your product.

 Webbing Material Comparison Table

Material

Tensile Strength

UV Resistance

Water Resistance

Abrasion Resistance

Custom Color Options

Best For

Nylon

★★★★☆

★★☆☆☆

★☆☆☆☆

★★★★☆

★★★★★

Pet gear, handles, fashion straps

Polypropylene

★★☆☆☆

★★★★☆

★★★★★

★★☆☆☆

★★☆☆☆

Outdoor bags, marine, general utility

Polyester

★★★★☆

★★★★☆

★★★★☆

★★★★☆

★★☆☆☆

Tie-downs, transport, heavy-duty use

1. Nylon Webbing

Best for: Pet leashes, handles, harnesses, tactical gear, high-end bag straps

Nylon is one of the most widely used webbing materials due to its strength-to-weight ratio, excellent abrasion resistance, and smooth texture. It offers great load-bearing capacity, making it a trusted choice for applications involving motion, friction, or tension, like pet gear and tactical straps.

Technical Notes:

  • Tensile strength range: 300–5,000 lbs, depending on width and weave

  • High elongation (stretch) under load can provide shock absorption

  • Available in flat, tubular, and mil-spec constructions

  • Dye bath method allows for rich color saturation and branding flexibility

Environmental Considerations:

  • Absorbs water and can take time to dry

  • May fade or bleed when exposed to prolonged moisture or UV

  • Can mildew if stored damp


View our Nylon Webbing selection






 2. Polypropylene Webbing

Best for: Marine applications, outdoor bags, recreational gear, low-load strapping

Polypropylene (or polypro) is favored for its light weight, cost efficiency, and exceptional moisture resistance. It’s ideal for non-load-bearing applications in damp or sun-exposed environments like boating accessories, beach bags, or light-duty covers.

Technical Notes:

  • Tensile strength: 200–3,000 lbs

  • Floatable and hydrophobic, it does not absorb water

  • Resists mildew, mold, and most chemicals

  • Dope-dyed at the pellet stage before extrusion—great UV stability but limited color flexibility

Limitations:

  • Not suitable for high-tension or impact-prone applications

  • Surface texture is rougher than nylon or polyester

  • Higher MOQs for custom color runs

View our Polypropylene Webbing selection

 3. Polyester Webbing

Best for: Tie-downs, cargo restraints, commercial ratchet straps, industrial rigging

Polyester offers the strength of nylon but with much lower stretch, making it perfect for load-securing and tie-down systems. It performs well under tension and in outdoor environments, combining UV resistance with chemical durability.

Technical Notes:

  • Tensile strength similar to nylon: up to 6,000 lbs+

  • Minimal elongation (less than 2% under load), great for safety

  • Thermosol dyeing method offers fewer custom color options

  • Resists acid, abrasion, and temperature extremes

Use Cases:

  • DOT/ANSI-compliant webbing for transport and rigging

  • Hammocks, climbing gear, and recovery straps

  • High-load buckle systems

View our Polyester Webbing selection

4. Specialty Webbing Types

In addition to the standard materials above, consider specialty webbing types for niche or technical use cases:

  • Kevlar Webbing – Ultra-high tensile strength and heat resistance; used in aerospace, fire protection, and industrial slings

  • Tubular Webbing – Features a hollow or double-layer weave for added strength and flexibility; popular in climbing and medical applications

  • Elastic Webbing – Adds stretch and rebound for sports, apparel, and orthopedic use

  • Cotton Webbing – Natural and soft; suitable for casual bags, belts, and eco-conscious fashion products

  • Reflective Webbing – Enhanced visibility using reflective threads or coatings; common in safety, workwear, and pet accessories

Let us know if you need performance data, safety certifications, or specific compliance details for these materials.

Key Selection Criteria Checklist

Use this checklist to evaluate your options based on technical needs and end-user context:

Consideration

Questions to Ask

Strength

What’s the minimum load or breaking force required?

Stretch/Elongation

Does the webbing need to absorb shock or remain taut under tension?

Exposure to Moisture

Will it be used in rain, humidity, or submerged in water?

Sunlight/UV Exposure

Is UV degradation a concern over time?

Abrasion Resistance

Will it rub or scrape against hardware or rough surfaces?

Color/Branding

Do you need specific color matching or printed logos?

Regulatory Needs

Does the application involve safety standards (e.g. ANSI, OSHA, DOT)?

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What’s the difference between flat and tubular webbing?
 A: Flat webbing has a single-layer structure and is stiffer; tubular webbing is double-layered and more flexible, with better handling and durability for friction-prone tasks.

Q: Can you add reflective or fire-resistant treatments to webbing?
 A: Yes,  many webbing types can be coated, woven, or finished with reflective elements or flame-retardant chemicals for specific compliance needs.

Q: Can I get custom weaves or jacquard branding?
 A: Absolutely. We offer jacquard loom capabilities for woven-in logos, patterns, or text. Minimums and lead times vary based on complexity and material.

Q: Is recycled or sustainable webbing available?
A: Yes, we offer webbing made from recycled PET or nylon, suitable for eco-conscious brands. These can match or exceed performance benchmarks for many common applications.

Still Have Questions? Let Us Help.

If you're still unsure which webbing material is right for your product, our expert Customer Service team is here to help. We can provide tailored guidance, specifications, certifications, and performance samples for your evaluation.

Call us at (256) 241-0180 or email customerservice@directex.net to find the right solution for your project.
LETS TALK!

We’re here. We’re free. For real.

Click the link, fill out the form and we’ll be in touch at the earliest.

Or simply reach us at any of the offices listed!

SALES OFFICES

CALIFORNIA

5510 Grace Pl #4112,
Commerce,
CA 90022,
United States

Phone: +1 888-711-3297
 

ALABAMA

304 S Leighton Ave,
Anniston,
AL 36207,
United States

Phone:+1 888-711-3297
 

COLORADO

370 Miners Dr. Ste#12,
Lafayette,
CO 80026
United States

Phone: +1 303-664-1000
 

MEXICO

C. Juan Ruiz de Alarcón 235,
Col Americana, Obrera,
44140 Guadalajara, Jalisco,
Mexico

Phone:+1 888-711-3297
DISTRIBUTION

COMMERCE

CALIFORNIA

BOULDER

COLORADO
 

OXFORD 

ALABAMA

CHICAGO

ILLINOIS
 

GUADALAJARA

MEXICO
 

DONGGUAN

CHINA

Webbing Material Selection Guide: Choosing the Right Type for Your Application

Choosing the correct webbing material is crucial in assuring the life-span, safety and customer satisfaction of your product.

 Webbing Material Comparison Table

Material

Tensile Strength

UV Resistance

Water Resistance

Abrasion Resistance

Custom Color Options

Best For

Nylon

★★★★☆

★★☆☆☆

★☆☆☆☆

★★★★☆

★★★★★

Pet gear, handles, fashion straps

Polypropylene

★★☆☆☆

★★★★☆

★★★★★

★★☆☆☆

★★☆☆☆

Outdoor bags, marine, general utility

Polyester

★★★★☆

★★★★☆

★★★★☆

★★★★☆

★★☆☆☆

Tie-downs, transport, heavy-duty use

1. Nylon Webbing

Best for: Pet leashes, handles, harnesses, tactical gear, high-end bag straps

Nylon is one of the most widely used webbing materials due to its strength-to-weight ratio, excellent abrasion resistance, and smooth texture. It offers great load-bearing capacity, making it a trusted choice for applications involving motion, friction, or tension, like pet gear and tactical straps.

Technical Notes:

  • Tensile strength range: 300–5,000 lbs, depending on width and weave

  • High elongation (stretch) under load can provide shock absorption

  • Available in flat, tubular, and mil-spec constructions

  • Dye bath method allows for rich color saturation and branding flexibility

Environmental Considerations:

  • Absorbs water and can take time to dry

  • May fade or bleed when exposed to prolonged moisture or UV

  • Can mildew if stored damp


View our Nylon Webbing selection






 2. Polypropylene Webbing

Best for: Marine applications, outdoor bags, recreational gear, low-load strapping

Polypropylene (or polypro) is favored for its light weight, cost efficiency, and exceptional moisture resistance. It’s ideal for non-load-bearing applications in damp or sun-exposed environments like boating accessories, beach bags, or light-duty covers.

Technical Notes:

  • Tensile strength: 200–3,000 lbs

  • Floatable and hydrophobic, it does not absorb water

  • Resists mildew, mold, and most chemicals

  • Dope-dyed at the pellet stage before extrusion—great UV stability but limited color flexibility

Limitations:

  • Not suitable for high-tension or impact-prone applications

  • Surface texture is rougher than nylon or polyester

  • Higher MOQs for custom color runs

View our Polypropylene Webbing selection

 3. Polyester Webbing

Best for: Tie-downs, cargo restraints, commercial ratchet straps, industrial rigging

Polyester offers the strength of nylon but with much lower stretch, making it perfect for load-securing and tie-down systems. It performs well under tension and in outdoor environments, combining UV resistance with chemical durability.

Technical Notes:

  • Tensile strength similar to nylon: up to 6,000 lbs+

  • Minimal elongation (less than 2% under load), great for safety

  • Thermosol dyeing method offers fewer custom color options

  • Resists acid, abrasion, and temperature extremes

Use Cases:

  • DOT/ANSI-compliant webbing for transport and rigging

  • Hammocks, climbing gear, and recovery straps

  • High-load buckle systems

View our Polyester Webbing selection

4. Specialty Webbing Types

In addition to the standard materials above, consider specialty webbing types for niche or technical use cases:

  • Kevlar Webbing – Ultra-high tensile strength and heat resistance; used in aerospace, fire protection, and industrial slings

  • Tubular Webbing – Features a hollow or double-layer weave for added strength and flexibility; popular in climbing and medical applications

  • Elastic Webbing – Adds stretch and rebound for sports, apparel, and orthopedic use

  • Cotton Webbing – Natural and soft; suitable for casual bags, belts, and eco-conscious fashion products

  • Reflective Webbing – Enhanced visibility using reflective threads or coatings; common in safety, workwear, and pet accessories

Let us know if you need performance data, safety certifications, or specific compliance details for these materials.

Key Selection Criteria Checklist

Use this checklist to evaluate your options based on technical needs and end-user context:

Consideration

Questions to Ask

Strength

What’s the minimum load or breaking force required?

Stretch/Elongation

Does the webbing need to absorb shock or remain taut under tension?

Exposure to Moisture

Will it be used in rain, humidity, or submerged in water?

Sunlight/UV Exposure

Is UV degradation a concern over time?

Abrasion Resistance

Will it rub or scrape against hardware or rough surfaces?

Color/Branding

Do you need specific color matching or printed logos?

Regulatory Needs

Does the application involve safety standards (e.g. ANSI, OSHA, DOT)?

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What’s the difference between flat and tubular webbing?
 A: Flat webbing has a single-layer structure and is stiffer; tubular webbing is double-layered and more flexible, with better handling and durability for friction-prone tasks.

Q: Can you add reflective or fire-resistant treatments to webbing?
 A: Yes,  many webbing types can be coated, woven, or finished with reflective elements or flame-retardant chemicals for specific compliance needs.

Q: Can I get custom weaves or jacquard branding?
 A: Absolutely. We offer jacquard loom capabilities for woven-in logos, patterns, or text. Minimums and lead times vary based on complexity and material.

Q: Is recycled or sustainable webbing available?
A: Yes, we offer webbing made from recycled PET or nylon, suitable for eco-conscious brands. These can match or exceed performance benchmarks for many common applications.

Still Have Questions? Let Us Help.

If you're still unsure which webbing material is right for your product, our expert Customer Service team is here to help. We can provide tailored guidance, specifications, certifications, and performance samples for your evaluation.

Call us at (256) 241-0180 or email customerservice@directex.net to find the right solution for your project.
LETS TALK!

We’re here. We’re free. For real.

Click the link, fill out the form and we’ll be in touch at the earliest.

Or simply reach us at any of the offices listed!

SALES OFFICES

CALIFORNIA

5510 Grace Pl #4112,
Commerce,
CA 90022,
United States

Phone: +1 888-711-3297
 

ALABAMA

304 S Leighton Ave,
Anniston,
AL 36207,
United States

Phone:+1 888-711-3297
 

COLORADO

370 Miners Dr. Ste#12,
Lafayette,
CO 80026
United States

Phone: +1 303-664-1000
 

MEXICO

C. Juan Ruiz de Alarcón 235,
Col Americana, Obrera,
44140 Guadalajara, Jalisco,
Mexico

Phone:+1 888-711-3297
DISTRIBUTION

COMMERCE

CALIFORNIA

BOULDER

COLORADO
 

OXFORD 

ALABAMA

CHICAGO

ILLINOIS
 

GUADALAJARA

MEXICO
 

DONGGUAN

CHINA