Definition
What is it?
Ripstop is a tear-resistant fabric, much like Cordura fabric. It is made by weaving very tight warp and weft yarns, with thicker reinforcing yarns at regular intervals. These reinforcing yarns stop tears from spreading, which makes ripstop fabric extremely durable. Often used in outdoor gear, such as tents, sleeping bags, backpacks or parkas, it is also used in workwear, such as law enforcement coveralls and work jackets. It can be made from a variety of fibers, including cotton, polyester and nylon, and can also be treated with polyurethane and PVC coatings, giving it waterproof properties. The technique consists of incorporating thicker, stronger yarns at regular intervals into the weave, forming squares or a grid-like pattern.
Origins
Ripstop originated from the specific needs of the textile industry and the military. Its development dates back to the 1940s, during the Second World War.
In 1938, Dr. Robert W. Glendenning, an engineer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, developed ripstop fabric to meet the needs of the US Army.
At that time, parachutes were made from cotton canvas or silk. However, these materials had one major drawback: they were prone to tearing. Tears in parachute canopies could have disastrous consequences for paratroopers, putting them in danger during their descent.
When a tear occurs, it is stopped by the stronger yarns, preventing it from spreading across the fabric. This allowed ripstop parachutes to retain their structural integrity even in the event of small tears.
After the war, this technology was adapted for use in other fields, particularly in the manufacture of outdoor and military equipment.
Ripstop's resistance to tearing and wear made it a smart choice for uniforms, backpacks, tents and sleeping bags, and other equipment requiring great sturdiness.
The strength qualities of this fabric
Wear, tearing, puncture, waterproofing, fire?
Thanks to its structure, Ripstop is a fabric that performs extremely well over time. Here are some of the technical properties of Ripstop fabric:
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- Tear resistance: It is highly resistant to tearing. The reinforcing yarns stop tears from spreading, which makes ripstop fabric extremely durable.
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- Lightweight: Ripstop fabric is light and compact. It is ideal for clothing and accessories that need to be lightweight and easy to carry.
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- Breathable: It lets air circulate, making it comfortable to wear even in hot weather.
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- Durable: It can withstand wear, punctures and bad weather.
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- Flame-retardant: depending on the fiber used and the finish applied by the supplier, Ripstop can also be flame-retardant.
Ripstop fabric is a versatile material that can be used in a wide range of applications. It is ideal for clothing and accessories that need to be tough and durable.
Why is ripstop used for law enforcement equipment?
Ripstop is often treated to be water-repellent or quick-drying. This means that it does not retain moisture and dries quickly, which is essential in wet environments or when law enforcement officers are exposed to water, whether during operations at sea, on rivers or in the rain.
Ripstop is available in a variety of camouflage patterns, making it suitable for tactical operations where discretion is paramount. Law enforcement officers can use ripstop equipment to blend into their environment and improve their ability to remain invisible or hard to spot.
Overall, ripstop is a popular choice for law enforcement equipment thanks to its tear resistance, durability, light weight, quick drying and camouflage properties. These features make ripstop a versatile, reliable material that meets the specific demands of law enforcement operations.
Our Ripstop equipment
At GK, we are constantly developing new equipment to meet the needs of law enforcement and outdoor enthusiasts. Ripstop is one of our favorite materials, and we generally work with it on a cotton base, with a small percentage of elastane for comfort. Among the GK essentials, you will find:
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- The ULTIMATE coverall: here is a prime example of a garment designed for intensive use. Thanks to the Ripstop used, our ripstop tactical coverall is the faithful ally of officers in the field.
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- The SURVIVOR pants: perfect for plainclothes missions, training or outdoor outings, the ripstop pants from our GK Undercover collection feature multiple pockets, adjustment systems and tactical details!
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- The ROGUE shirt: It looks classic, but it has more than a few tricks up its sleeve. Fitted with several hidden pockets, it comes in coyote, khaki, navy blue or black to follow you on every operation.
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- The GPB TIMECOP II cover: A GK best seller for many years, this ballistic vest cover uses a waterproof-breathable Ripstop that gives it outstanding strength and comfort, even in hot weather.
Today, ripstop is used in many sectors, from outdoor gear and the clothing industry to the military and law enforcement. Thanks to its ingenious design and unique properties, ripstop has become a widely appreciated material for its durability, its strength and its ability to prevent tears from spreading. 
