When time comes to buy motorcycle riding gear, two names are usually comes in mind Cordura and Kevlar. Both are most popular for their durability and protective properties, but they have major differences that make them suitable for specific purpose. In this blog, we will define meaning, characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of motorcycle gears made from Kevlar and Cordura, helping you make a clear decision for your safety needs.
What is Cordura?
Cordura is a high-performance nylon fabric that provides exceptional abrasion resistance, tear strength, water resistance and durability. Cordura origin is from DuPont in 1929 and has evolved with advanced features over the years. Cordura material used in wide range of applications, including military gear, outdoor equipment, luggage, backpacks and motorcycle clothing.
Key Features of Cordura
- Durability: Cordura strong fibers ensure long-lasting performance, even in demanding conditions, making it an excellent choice for motorbike jackets, pants, and gloves.
- Abrasion Resistance: Cordura fabric can withstand significant wear and tear, providing a high level of abrasion resistance that is crucial for motorcycle riders.
- Water Resistance: Cordura has high water resistant qualities as it manufactured with many water-resistant coatings, offering protection against rain and moisture.
- Versatility: Cordura can be used in numerous products, from backpacks and luggage to motorcycle jackets and pants. This material is available in various weighs and weaves, producing much quality motorcycle riding gear with different levels of protection.
- Comfort: Beside strong and durable, Cordura is also relatively lightweight material and comfortable to wear. It is more breathable allowing better ventilation and have incredible moist wicking properties.
What is Kevlar?
Kevlar is a synthetic fiber developed in 1960’s by DuPont, a leading chemical company. Kevlar is a synthetic fiber known for its incredible strength and heat resistance. It is used in various protective motorcycle clothing like, motorcycle jeans, motorbike jacket, leather motorcycle vest, motorcycle shirts etc. Kevlar is mostly used in making body armors, composites, and industrial applications where high-temperature is non-avoidable.
Key Features of Kevlar
- High Tensile Strength: Kevlar is five times stronger than steel on an equal weight basis. It provides excellent protection against high-impact forces, making it extremely effective in preventing cuts and abrasions.
- Heat Resistance: The fiber can withstand high temperatures without melting or degrading quality, providing added protection in case of a fire or extreme heat exposure.
- Lightweight: Despite high strength quality, Kevlar is lightweight, contributing in maintaining mobility and comfort.
- Flexibility: Kevlar fibers weave into fabrics with reinforced stitching that offer flexibility with strengthen of material.
- Impact Resistance: The material is excellent at absorbing and spreading out the force of a hit, which is beneficial in protecting rider from getting hurt.
Comparing Cordura VS Kevlar on basis of quality and safety
Abrasion Resistance: Both materials are extremely durable, making it suitable for everyday riding and providing a good balance between protection and comfort. However, Kevlar is more resistant to cuts, tears, and abrasion. Kevlar is often used in critical areas like elbows, knees, legs, back and shoulders. Cordura is more prone to scratches and scuffs.
Heat Resistance: Cordura features heat resistance properties but is not as effective as Kevlar in extremely high temperatures. Kevlar has a higher heat resistance than Cordura, with a melting point of around 420°C (800°F) compared to Cordura’s 200°C (392°F). Kevlar material is Ideal for riders concerned about heat and fire hazards.
Weight and Comfort: Cordura fabric are more comfortable and suitable for long journeys because of its soft texture and lighter weight. Pure Kevlar gear can be less flexible and comfortable. Kevlar is generally heavier than Cordura due to its dense weaving and more thread count. Kevlar often used in combination with other soft fabrics to enhance comfort.
Cost: Cordura is more affordable than Kevlar, especially for smaller quantities. Kevlar is expensive because of its top-notch protective qualities and advanced manufacturing process. Cordura is a popular choice for budget-conscious riders.
Great Bikers Gear Commitment to Safety: Kevlar VS Cordura Motorcycle Gear range
Great Bikers Gear Company is renowned top-quality motorcycle clothing and accessories shop online, manufacturing wide range of bike gear made from both Kevlar and Cordura materials. Their extensive range of motorcycle clothing includes Kevlar shirts, Kevlar leggings, Kevlar jeans, and Cordura jackets, each designed to provide maximum protection and comfort for riders. Their dedication to quality ensures riders are equipped with the best motorcycle clothing and accessories for their adventures.
Conclusion: Which should you consider to buy between Kevlar and Cordura?
The choice between Cordura and Kevlar depend on your preferences and riding style. If you are casual rider who prioritize comfort, versatility, and affordability, Cordura is best choice. It provides necessary protection and it is most appropriate material for riders who wants to enjoy rides in nearby town.
However, if you require the highest level of protection, especially in high-risk areas, Kevlar is the superior option. Its exceptional strength and heat resistance make it ideal for riders who demand the utmost safety for rides. Best motorcycle clothing and accessories stores in UK offers both Cordura and Kevlar combination motorcycle riding gears to leverage the strengths of each material. Motorcycle Jackets, Motorcycle vest, and gloves often feature Cordura for general construction and Kevlar reinforcements in critical areas. This advanced innovative approach offers a balanced combination of comfort, protection, and durability.
To sum up, whether you choose Cordura, Kevlar, or a combination of both, investing in quality protective gear is crucial for your safety. Make sure to consider your specific riding conditions, comfort preferences, and budget when selecting the material that is right for you. Stay safe and ride with confidence!