Lighter, stronger fabrics?
I'm trying to find out more about these. Ripstop nylon used to be one of the best, but there seem to be some new kids on the block.
Does anyone know of other fabrics that are especially light and strong?
Or of websites that discuss them?, or sell them?
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I am touring right now, and I have a jacket (a parka) with me that is very functional. But it is quite bulky (it has a nylon exterior shell, coated for water resistance, and polyester lining, ventilation zippers under the arms, etc. -- one of the better such jackets I've seen. Still, it is unnecessarily bulky.).
Layers (maybe snug cashmere or something like polypro next to the skin, then other layers as needed) -- with a very light, very compact windshell/rainshell -- these seem like a much more versatile way to go. And there is much less weight and bulk.
I also have a pair of pants that is light and versatile, dries fast, looks good, cleans easily . . . and is great to have along.
And there are probably even lighter versions of all these things out there.
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Groundcloths are another thing that can be relatively bulky and heavy, or compact and light. Tarps as well can vary quite a bit.
Other items can also cover quite a range of weight and bulk and yet have comparable functionality. It seems much better to go with more compact and lightweight materials and designs.
If each item taken on tour is very light and compact, the cumulative bulk and weight savings [for the overall gear taken along -- for the entire package] can be striking.
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I am especially interested in the fabrics themselves. [Ultralight kevlar, for example, sounds durable and abrasion resistant, and well suited for a groundcloth (and perhaps for other things as well).]
Finished products would also be of interest.
Has anyone come across anything light or light/compact that might be worth a look?
Last edited by Niles H.; 10-31-07 at 08:07 PM.
Reason: minor change in title