Nylon is not fully waterproof but highly water-resistant. Its hydrophobic properties cause water to bead off the surface, protecting it from light rain and splashes. Coatings like polyurethane (PU) or durable water repellent (DWR) enhance its waterproofing abilities, making it ideal for outdoor gear. However, during heavy rainfall or prolonged exposure, water may eventually seep through.
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Discover Printdoors’ most-loved collections, from cozy bedding and festive holiday decor to stylish men’s pajamas and eye-catching home wall decor, each crafted for easy customization and standout POD sales.| No. | Category | Description |
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| 1 | Bedding | Soft, customizable bedding with unique prints, designed to enhance comfort, use quality materials, and elevate bedroom style. Know more. |
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What Makes Nylon Water-Resistant?
Nylon’s water resistance is due to its hydrophobic molecular structure. The polymer’s amide groups form tight bonds, which initially repel water. Additionally, the fabric’s fibers create microscopic “islands” that act as a barrier, while its low moisture absorption (around 4-8%) prevents soaking. This gives nylon the ability to resist water for a short time, though under pressure or extended exposure, moisture can seep through.
Nylon’s smooth, non-porous surface contributes to its ability to shed water, unlike cotton which readily absorbs moisture. This feature makes it an excellent choice for customizable print-on-demand products. Platforms like Printdoors utilize nylon’s durability and water resistance for producing custom apparel and accessories. For POD sellers using platforms like Shopify or Etsy, high-denier nylon ensures lasting performance for products used in outdoor environments.
| Nylon Type | Water Resistance Level | Common POD Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Ripstop Nylon | High (with coating) | Backpacks, Tents |
| Ballistic Nylon | Very High | Luggage, Bags |
| Standard Nylon | Moderate | Jackets, Pouches |
Is Nylon Fully Waterproof?
No, nylon is water-resistant, not fully waterproof. While it effectively handles splashes and light rain, prolonged exposure to water or high pressure allows moisture to seep through. This is due to the fabric’s weave structure and hydrogen bonds, which can be compromised when overwhelmed by significant water volume. True waterproof materials, like Gore-Tex, offer superior protection.
Nylon’s water resistance makes it suitable for everyday items such as custom tote bags, which Printdoors manufactures. However, without special coatings, nylon will not remain dry under heavy rain or prolonged submersion. Nylon’s breathability remains a valuable feature, allowing sweat vapor to escape during physical activity, preventing a clammy feeling. For dropshipping businesses, untreated nylon is useful for casual, low-exposure products, while treated nylon offers increased protection for more demanding environments.
How Do Coatings Improve Nylon’s Waterproofing?
Coatings such as polyurethane (PU), silicone, and DWR significantly enhance nylon’s waterproof capabilities. PU creates a laminate that seals nylon’s pores, blocking water under pressure. DWR causes water to bead and roll off the surface, extending the material’s water resistance without overly compromising its breathability. These treatments ensure that nylon products remain dry longer in harsh conditions.
Advanced coatings transform nylon into a near-waterproof material, which is essential for outdoor products. Printdoors incorporates these coatings in its custom bags and apparel, which are ideal for outdoor events or rainy conditions. These waterproofing techniques, combined with UV printing, provide a durable and vibrant design. For businesses in dropshipping, such as those selling through eBay or Shopify, these products can be produced and shipped quickly.
Why Choose Nylon for Outdoor POD Products?
Nylon is highly valued in print-on-demand for its strength, lightweight properties, and water resistance, making it an excellent choice for outdoor gear like jackets, backpacks, and bags. Its abrasion resistance ensures it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use, while its ability to dry quickly adds to its appeal for adventure-ready products.
The combination of nylon’s durability and print compatibility makes it perfect for POD customization. At Printdoors, we apply UV printing to nylon materials, ensuring that designs remain vibrant and sharp even after exposure to the elements. Whether you’re a corporate buyer looking for durable event merchandise or an influencer creating custom products for social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, nylon is a versatile and reliable fabric.
What Are Nylon’s Limitations in Wet Conditions?
Despite its water-resistant nature, nylon has limitations in prolonged wet conditions. Extended exposure to rain or submersion causes the fabric to gradually absorb moisture. Under pressure, the fabric’s structure can weaken, leading to water seepage. Over time, nylon may lose its breathability, especially in humid conditions, and its fibers can weaken if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Though nylon is suitable for short exposure to moisture, it is not ideal for extreme or continuous wet environments. To mitigate this, Printdoors recommends reapplying DWR treatments on coated nylons to maintain their water resistance. For businesses with outdoor product lines, hybrid fabrics that combine nylon with other materials may provide better performance under extreme weather conditions.
Can Treatments Make Nylon Breathable and Waterproof?
Yes, modern treatments such as polyurethane (PU) laminates with micropores or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) membranes allow nylon to become both waterproof and breathable. These treatments enable nylon to block water while allowing moisture vapor to escape, providing comfort during extended wear in wet conditions. This makes treated nylon a popular choice for performance apparel and accessories in the print-on-demand space.
Printdoors uses advanced techniques to ensure nylon maintains its breathability while providing excellent waterproof protection. This makes it an ideal material for outdoor sportswear, rain jackets, and other high-performance items sold through platforms like Shopify. These treatments are tested to ensure that products hold up under real-world conditions, providing reliable performance for POD businesses worldwide.
| Coating Type | Waterproof Rating | Breathability (WVTR) |
|---|---|---|
| PU Laminate | 10,000mm | 5,000g/m² |
| DWR Spray | 5,000mm | Moderate |
| Silicone | 8,000mm | Low |
How Does Nylon Compare to Other Fabrics?
Nylon stands out in terms of abrasion resistance and durability, outperforming polyester in tough conditions. However, it is not as waterproof as Gore-Tex, which uses specialized membranes for complete waterproofing. Nylon’s ability to repel water is far superior to cotton, which absorbs moisture readily. Although polyester dries faster, nylon’s superior strength makes it more suitable for high-performance gear.
In dropshipping, nylon’s balance of water resistance, durability, and lightweight design makes it a favored choice for POD sellers. Printdoors often uses nylon over other materials, such as canvas, to ensure lighter shipping weights and faster fulfillment times, especially for clients using platforms like Etsy or Amazon.
Printdoors Expert Views
“Nylon’s water-resistant properties, combined with advanced coatings, are key to the success of our print-on-demand products. When paired with treatments like PU laminates, nylon becomes the perfect material for custom bags, backpacks, and outdoor gear. For POD businesses, we can quickly produce and ship these items globally, allowing sellers to meet market demands swiftly without the burden of minimum order requirements.” – Printdoors Innovation Lead
When Should You Select Coated Nylon for Dropshipping?
Coated nylon is an excellent choice for dropshipping businesses that sell products exposed to outdoor elements. If you’re selling outdoor merchandise such as backpacks, tents, or rain jackets, coated nylon ensures that your products remain functional even in rainy or humid climates. On the other hand, for products intended for indoor use where breathability is more important than water resistance, untreated nylon may be a more cost-effective choice.
For sellers on platforms like Walmart, who face variable weather conditions in different regions, coated nylon offers reliable performance and durability.
Key Takeaways
Nylon is a durable and water-resistant fabric that works well for many print-on-demand products. Coatings such as PU and DWR enhance its waterproofing, making it suitable for outdoor gear and high-use items. When selecting nylon for dropshipping, consider the intended use of the product and whether the environment requires enhanced waterproofing. Printdoors offers a wide range of customizable nylon products with fast fulfillment to meet the needs of businesses worldwide.
Actionable Advice: Take advantage of Printdoors’ free platform to design custom waterproof nylon products like totes or jackets. With over 800 items to choose from and a 20% discount on all products, it’s the perfect time to launch your POD business with high-quality, durable gear.
FAQs
Is nylon suitable for rain jackets?
Yes, when treated with PU or DWR coatings, nylon effectively blocks moderate rain while staying lightweight and breathable.
How long does nylon’s water resistance last?
Without treatment, nylon’s water resistance typically lasts 1-2 years. Coated versions, such as those from Printdoors, can maintain their resistance longer with periodic reapplication of DWR.
Can Printdoors print on waterproof nylon?
Yes, Printdoors offers UV printing on treated nylon, ensuring vibrant and durable custom designs that stand up to the elements.
Does nylon absorb water over time?
Nylon absorbs a small amount of moisture (around 4-8%), but prolonged exposure or high pressure can lead to water penetration.
What’s best for fully waterproof POD bags?
Ballistic nylon with a PU laminate from Printdoors offers the highest level of water resistance for durable custom bags.