For tactical gear manufacturers
This guide compares these materials across key factors to help you make informed decisions for your production needs.
What is X-PAC Fabric?
X-PAC is a laminated composite fabric designed for high-performance applications. Its multi-layer structure includes:
Outer Layer : Nylon or polyester for abrasion resistance.
Middle Layer : A waterproof polyester or polyethylene film for weather protection.
Inner Layer : X-Ply reinforcement (cross-ply polyester or Vectran® threads) for tear resistance.
This construction delivers built-in waterproofing, strong tear resistance, and a lightweight profile, making X-PAC suitable for tactical gear like backpacks, vests, and pouches where durability and weight are key considerations.
X-PAC vs. Competitors: Critical Attributes for Manufacturers
We compare X-PAC to Cordura, Dyneema, and Ripstop Nylon across 5 key factors affecting production and performance.
1. Weight-to-Strength Ratio
Fabric Weight (oz/yd²) Key Strength Best Application X-PAC (VX-21) 5.9 Tear resistance (X-Ply) Backpacks, vests, pouches Cordura (1000D) 10 Abrasion resistance High-wear areas (straps, bases) Dyneema (SB51) 3.5 Strength-to-weight (UHMWPE) Cut-resistant gear, armor Ripstop Nylon (70D) 1.9 Lightweight tear resistance Budget gear, liners
X-PAC offers an excellent balance of low weight and high tear resistance, ideal for most tactical gear. Pair it with Cordura in high-abrasion areas for hybrid designs.
2. Water Resistance & Production Efficiency
Fabric Waterproof? Coatings Required? Production Impact X-PAC Yes (film layer) None Reduces labor/cost Cordura No PU/DWR Adds $3–5/yd in coatings Dyneema (DCF) Yes (select types) None Streamlined for waterproof designs Ripstop Nylon No DWR Requires frequent reapplication
X-PAC and Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF) offer built-in waterproofing, eliminating the need for additional coatings, which reduces manufacturing costs and defect risks compared to Cordura and Ripstop Nylon.
3. Durability & Compliance
Fabric Key Advantage Compliance Weakness X-PAC High tear resistance MIL-SPEC, IPX standards (configurable) Moderate abrasion resistance (improved in RX series) Cordura High abrasion resistance (ASTM D3884 ) Military-grade certifications Heavy, not waterproof Dyneema Cut resistance (ISO 13997) NIJ standards (armor) High cost, sewing challenges Ripstop Nylon Cost-effective Limited certifications Lower durability
X-PAC can be configured to meet MIL-SPEC and IPX standards, making it suitable for contracts requiring certified tear resistance and waterproofing. Recent advancements, like the RX series, improve its abrasion resistance.
4. Cost Analysis
Fabric Material Cost/yd Labor/Coatings Cost/yd Total Cost/yd X-PAC $22-25 $0 $22-25 Cordura + PU $12-15 $3-5 $15-20 Dyneema $60-70 $8-10 (specialized sewing) $68-80 Ripstop Nylon $6-8 $2-3 $8-11
X-PAC’s total cost is comparable to Cordura with coatings but offers simpler production and fewer defects. Dyneema is significantly more expensive, while Ripstop Nylon remains the most budget-friendly.
5. Best Applications
Fabric Ideal For Avoid For X-PAC Waterproof backpacks, medical pouches, field-ready vests Gear requiring extreme abrasion resistance Cordura Backpack bases, MOLLE straps, heavy-duty workwear Ultralight designs Dyneema Ballistic panels, cut-resistant gloves, ultralight specialty gear High-volume production Ripstop Nylon Budget gear liners, lightweight covers Long-term field use
Why Manufacturers Choose X-PAC
Built-In Waterproofing : X-PAC’s laminated film eliminates the need for PU or DWR coatings, reducing labor costs and the risk of coating degradation over time.
X-Ply Tear Resistance : The cross-ply reinforcement prevents tear propagation, ensuring gear reliability in mission-critical environments.
Supply Chain Consistency : X-PAC, produced by trusted suppliers like Dimension-Polyant , ensures uniform quality across batches, unlike generic ballistic nylons.
Lightweight Design : At 5.9 oz/yd² (VX-21), X-PAC is nearly 50% lighter than 1000D Cordura, reducing shipping costs and improving user mobility.
Sustainability : Newer X-PAC variants, such as those with recycled polyester, align with growing demands for sustainable manufacturing. Cordura also offers recycled options, but X-PAC’s streamlined production reduces environmental impact.
Modern Manufacturing Advantages
X-PAC’s composite structure is compatible with advanced techniques like laser cutting, which improves precision and reduces waste in production. This is valuable for high-volume orders requiring consistent quality.
Partner with Us for X-PAC Tactical Gear
Our ISO 9001-certified manufacturing services specialize in X-PAC and other high-performance fabrics. From military-grade backpacks to weatherproof pouches
Custom Solutions : Tailor denier, color, and laminate options to meet your specifications.
Prototyping & Testing : Compliance with MIL-SPEC, IPX, or custom standards.
Bulk Pricing : Competitive rates and fast turnaround for high-volume orders.
Contact us to explore how we can assist you.
