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DuPont initially introduced Cordura as a type of rayon.[3][4] In a 1948 advertisement, DuPont described the research that led to its creation: “DuPont scientists were working to improve on the properties of rayon… Out of the cooperation among scientists—ranging from studies of cellulose as a high polymer to design of enormous plants—came a new product, 'Cordura' high-tenacity rayon, as strong as mild steel yet able to stand up under repeated flexing.” [5] Cordura was further worked on during World War II and used in tires for military vehicles.
By 1966, with the arrival of nylon formulations, the Cordura brand name was transferred to nylon products. In 1977, a process for dyeing nylon was discovered, leading to a broader range of commercial applications. Eastpak was the first brand to use Cordura fabric in their luggage.[6] By 1979, "soft-sided" Cordura luggage made up about 40 percent of the luggage market.
JanSport used the canvas-like nylon in their original daypacks in the 1970s, and now exclusively uses polyester Cordura.[7] In the 1980s, Manhattan Portage began using 1000 denier (D) Cordura nylon in their bags.[8] During the 1990s, European workwear clothing brands adopted the 1000D and 500D fabric for reinforcements. Brands like F. Engel, Fristads Kansas, Snickers and Scruffs use Cordura in their clothing. Today, Cordura is used in textile motorcycle jackets and pants for abrasion resistance, with companies such as Klim, Rukka, MotoPort, Rev'It!, Olympia, Aerostich, and Dainese incorporating it into their gear.[9]
Variants of Cordura fabrics vary in weight, appearance, tear resistance, and color retention. There are also base layer, denim, and canvas fabrics that blends Invista 420 D nylon 6, 6 fiber, and cotton, known as "Cordura Baselayer," "Cordura Denim," and "Cordura Duck," respectively.[10]
Some Cordura fabrics have been specifically designed for military applications and extended outdoor use.[11][12]
