Polyester and nylon are the two most common webbing materials. They look similar but behave very differently. Here's how to choose.
Nylon is stronger and more abrasion-resistant than polyester — it's the default for seatbelts, rock climbing harnesses and heavy-duty straps. Polyester is slightly weaker but still strong enough for 90% of bag, luggage and pet products.
Nylon stretches more under load (up to 15% elongation). This is good for shock absorption (dog leashes, climbing) but bad if you need a strap that holds a fixed length (bag handles, belts). Polyester stretches very little — it holds its shape.
Polyester absorbs almost no water and dries fast. Nylon absorbs water and loses ~10% strength when wet. Polyester also resists UV better — nylon gets brittle after long sun exposure. For outdoor, marine or sun-exposed products, choose polyester.
Polyester is usually 10–20% cheaper than nylon. For most consumer bags, pet collars and gift packaging, polyester is the cost-effective choice. Pick nylon only when you need maximum strength or shock absorption.
PP webbing is even cheaper than polyester, lighter and water-resistant. It's fine for light bags, promotional straps and disposable uses, but less UV-stable and less abrasion-resistant than both polyester and nylon.
Not sure? Request a free sample and test the hand feel yourself.