The humble backpack. Also known as a rucksack, knapsack, or bookbag, the backpack is thought to have been a staple in our closets we could walk.
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Two main categories of backpack material
Backpacks are primarily divided into two categories: with a frame and frameless.
Frameless backpacks
Frameless backpacks are the most simple design and are found in a variety of uses, sizes, and materials. They consist of one main pocket, connected to two shoulder straps. Various performance and aesthetic enhancements, such as extra pockets, attachment points, hip and chest straps to offset movement, padding, and ventilation. The openings can be as simple as a pull closure with cordage, magnets, webbing, or as technical as a roll-top for waterproofing uses. These frameless backpacks can be made in a variety of synthetic and natural materials such as nylon, leather, canvas, tarpaulin, and more. You can find frameless backpacks styles in luxury stores, fast fashion retailers, and outdoor stores, because of the versatility.
Backpacks with a frame
Backpacks with a frame can have external or internal frames. External frame backpacks are traditionally made for holding large loads and offsetting some of the weight with more support and better weight distribution. The first external frame backpacks were constructed out of wood and natural materials, and as lightweight metals began to be more accessible, mountaineering and military backpacks began swapping out wood frames for aluminium or other metal alloy frames in the 20th century. The pack sits in the frame, and can also be removed to carry unconventional items, a feature especially useful for hunters or couriers. The frame also provides a natural area of ventilation between the wearer’s back and the load being carried, allowing for more comfort in high temperature and high humidity environments.
Internal frames are a newer innovation that was created within the hiking and mountaineering industries. These backpacks consist typically of synthetic material, with an integrated frame made out of metal or plastic. The frame fits closely to the body for a more stable fit, reducing shifting, but internal frame packs often lack the ventilation and load capacity than external frame backpacks have.
Types of Backpack Material
With conventional materials out on the market, designers often have to choose the type of frame or style of backpack based on the material’s performance and ability to be customized, rather than design a backpack and find suitable materials for the use case.
Common materials in backpacks:
- Cotton
- Leather
- Synthetic leather
- Ripstop
- Ballistic
- CORDURA
- Polyester
- Neoprene
- Polypropylene
- PVC
- Ariaprene®
ARIAPRENE® BACKPACK MATERIAL
Ariaprene® is a backpack material offering that is being used increasingly by brands in a variety of industries. Made up of a closed-cell TPE based foam core, it can be layered for soft touch qualities similar to Neoprene. Generally, it is used between 1–15mm in thickness, and 8-30C hardness, and available in a high stretch series, low heat-shrinkage series, and shock-absorbing series. Tiong Liong Industrial’s patented, water-based lamination process uses less energy during manufacturing and is a material that is environmentally sound, degradable, and fully recyclable, unlike most footwear textiles currently out on the market.
Know more about the advantages why should choose closed cell foam
Monbento Backpack material
When Monbento needed material for their lunch rucksacks, they created an Ariaprene® package that was eco-friendly, durable, and insulating. This custom backpack material was utilized throughout the main body of the sack and finished off with a simple cord closure.
Mission Workshop Backpack material
Mission Workshop, a company that gained respect for practical and durable cycling backpacks, created their Hauser hydration pack for all-conditions uses. The perforated, hexagonal back panel was constructed out of Ariaprene®, creating a soft exoskeleton that allowed for airflow during endurance activities, while still securely holding up to three liters of water. It was finished off with a nylon mesh laminate for comfort and weatherproofing.
Tortuga Backpack material
Tortuga created a custom Ariaprene® package for their Outbreaker bag, choosing to incorporate a custom foam core package for the shoulder straps and back panel. They chose to avoid a more conventional “air mesh” material which often creates irritation in high humidity conditions, and instead created a sweat-wicking, closed-cell material for this large load backpack.
View more products that were engineered with Ariaprene® in our gallery, and get in touch with us to see how you can future proof your backpack.
How to Choose the Backpack Material?
When choosing a backpack material, consider factors such as durability, water resistance, weight, and breathability. Materials such as nylon and polyester are often durable and water-resistant, but may be heavier than other options. Canvas and leather may be more breathable but may require waterproofing treatments. For eco-friendly options, consider materials such as organic cotton or recycled polyester. Ultimately, the best material will depend on the intended use of the backpack, as well as personal preferences and priorities.
Why choose ARIAPRENE® for Backpack Material?
ARIAPRENE® is an excellent choice for backpack material due to its unique combination of properties. It is made from recycled polyester, making it an eco-friendly option, and is water-resistant, durable, and lightweight. It also offers excellent stretch and recovery, providing a comfortable fit that moves with the wearer. ARIAPRENE® is also resistant to oils and chemicals, making it ideal for outdoor and industrial applications. Overall, ARIAPRENE® offers a great balance of environmental sustainability, performance, and versatility, making it a top choice for backpack material.
Frequently Asked Quetions About Backpack Materials
Q1：What is the most breathable material for backpacks?
A1：Mesh and spacer fabrics are commonly used for backpacks as they provide breathability and airflow, making them the most breathable materials for backpacks.
Q2：What is the most sustainable material for backpacks?
A2：Organic cotton, hemp, and recycled polyester are commonly used sustainable materials for backpacks. Among these, recycled polyester is considered the most sustainable due to its use of post-consumer plastic waste.
Q3：What is the most sustainable material for backpacks?
A3：Backpack materials like Cordura, ballistic nylon, and VX21/42 fabrics are considered to be some of the most durable materials for backpacks due to their high tensile strength and abrasion resistance.
