¿Qué es el tejido CORDURA?

The history of Napapijri’s outerwear is inextricably weaved with CORDURA® fabric—a remarkable fusion of fashion, performance, and sustainability. From the creation of our iconic first jacket, the Skidoo, in 1990, the brand sought to create outerwear able to reflect its connection with extreme exploration: this durable, water-repellent, and tear-resistant fabric sets the standard for quality and longevity in our designs.

What is CORDURA® made of?

The classic CORDURA® fabric is made with nylon 6,6 yarn. The air jet-textured material comes in a variety of constructions: plain, woven, dobby, basket, or ripstop. While the fabric itself is not waterproof, additional coats and laminations can make it one.

This construction makes CORDURA® one of the highest-performance fabrics available. It can withstand harsh environments and weather conditions, doesn't rip easily, and is resistant to abrasions.

The original nylon CORDURA® came on the market in 1967. Since then, the company has developed 15 more iterations that use the same cutting-edge technique with added benefits. Napapijri's anoraks and windbreaker jacket designs mostly use two of these fabrics.

The first one is CORDURA® UltraLite Fabric, inspired by the material used in hot air balloons and parachutes. The nylon 6,6 is woven with high tenacity, creating a lightweight yet extremely strong material. This makes it an excellent fabric for outdoor gear, such as tents, backpacks, and coats. It weighs less than 60 grams per square meter. In addition, the fabric has two—or three-ply laminates to offer water resistance.

The second fabric in Napapijri's clothing is the eco-friendly CORDURA® re/cor™ RN6. The company developed a new technology that transforms pre-consumer waste into nylon 6 yarn. In simple terms, they use leftover materials from industrial production that would have otherwise ended up in landfills. The fabric has the same durability and versatility as its predecessors while being 100% recycled.

What is CORDURA® fabric used for?

CORDURA® fabric was first developed by the chemical company DuPont in 1929. Back then, they made it out of Rayon and used it for military tyres. In 1967, CORDURA® started making it out of nylon, which also allowed them to add colours to the material.

Since CORDURA® fabric can hold up to rough conditions, it became an excellent material for luggage. Since the 1970s, it has been used in suitcases and duffle bags. Its durability also made it a great addition to workwear, especially in areas of the garment that needed reinforcement. Later, the fabric was used in shoes, jeans, tactical gear, and motorcycle gear, like jackets and trousers.

Nowadays, it is a common fabric used for anything related to outdoor activities. This includes everything from tents and backpacks to ski coats and anoraks, like the ones from Napapijri.

How to clean CORDURA® fabric

Since CORDURA® is a sturdy material, cleaning it is relatively easy. Usually, a damp cloth can remove most dirt and stains. However, if that doesn't work, it is recommended to clean the fabric by hand instead of throwing it in the washing machine. This will ensure the item will last much longer. Here are the steps to follow for cleaning:

1. To prevent the dirt from penetrating the fabric, remove it as soon as possible using a medium-hard bristle brush.

2. Wash the area with lukewarm water, no more than 30°C.

3. For stubborn stains, spray the area with a mild detergent or a mix of dish soap and water and let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing. Avoid bleach or chlorine-based cleaners.

4. Let the fabric dry naturally and slowly, away from direct sun or the radiator.

How to style CORDURA® clothing

As much as CORDURA® is a durable fabric, it is also stylish and versatile. So, when it comes to wearing it, whether in a jacket or an anorak, there are many ways to do so. When wearing the item for a hike or a camping trip, it goes well with cargo trousers and a warm hoodie underneath.

On a spring or summer day, it can also be paired with cargo shorts. That way, the hiker can stay warm on the peaks and remove it if it gets too hot. For cold activities like snowboarding, one can add matching ski pants and an insulated mid-layer. That will create a fashionable look both on the slopes and inside the resort.

A CORDURA® coat also looks great in an urban environment. It pairs well with chinos, some leather shoes, and a nice jumper, which one could wear to the office. Women can style it over a pair of jeans and an oversized sweater. For a more street-like fashion, the anorak works well with some joggers and skater trainers.

Discover CORDURA® clothing from Napapijri

After reviewing the characteristics of CORDURA®, it's easy to see why it remains one of Napapijri's iconic materials. Its superior construction means that any piece of clothing made from it could last for years and even decades. Resistant to tearing, lightweight, and with water-resistant treatments, it protects both against the elements and wear and tear.

In Napapijri’s collection, CORDURA® fabric is more than material—it’s a legacy. From windbreakers to anoraks, it provides unmatched durability, breathability, and timeless style for both women and men. A CORDURA® coat isn’t just an addition to your wardrobe; it’s an investment in quality, resilience, and enduring design, proving why this fabric has been at the heart of Napapijri since Skidoo's debut in 1990.