Nylon is stronger, more elastic and softer, but it absorbs water and fades in UV. Polyester is more UV-stable, dries faster and costs less, but is a little less abrasion-resistant. Choose by what will kill the fabric: abrasion points to nylon, sun and moisture point to polyester.
Side by side
| Nylon | Polyester | |
|---|---|---|
| Strength / abrasion | Higher | Good, slightly lower |
| Elasticity / hand | Softer, stretchier | Crisper |
| Water absorption | Absorbs more, dries slower | Absorbs little, dries fast |
| UV resistance | Degrades / fades faster | Better |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
When to choose which
- Nylon — gear that takes abrasion and load: packs, bags, covers, reinforcement panels, mesh that must hold its shape under tension.
- Polyester — anything in constant sun or moisture: outdoor mesh, awnings, sportswear panels, liners that must dry fast.
Coating and finish change the water behavior of either one — see Is CORDURA waterproof?. Our polyester mesh and nylon CORDURA show both sides of the split.
Frequently asked
Which is better for outdoor use? For long sun exposure, polyester holds up better. For abrasion and load, nylon. Many outdoor builds use each where it is strongest.
Does denier change this comparison? Denier sets the weight class within each fiber; it does not swap the fibers’ strengths. See what denier means.