We’re incredibly proud of our ongoing partnership with Dimension Polyant, whose groundbreaking X-Pac® fabrics help us achieve the outstanding quality and performance we expect from our products. (You can learn more about this innovative company, and our partnership, in our previous blog post.) These fabrics have revolutionized the industry, and evolved over the past 50 years to become synonymous with durability, strength and waterproof performance. 

But understanding the various X-Pac® fabrics, and the differences between them, can feel like deciphering a foreign language. So we’ve put together a handy cheat sheet to help cut through the technical jargon and make sense of it all.

X-Pac® fabrics are meticulously designed to withstand diverse environmental and physical forces, much like a technical racing sail. These fabrics boast a remarkable strength-to-weight ratio and are 100% waterproof, ensuring optimal performance in any condition. This innovation has led to the development of various fabric types, each tailored to specific needs and applications.

Dimension Polyant's fabrics are often identified by a numbering system that correlates to the denier of the fabric. Denier is a unit of measurement that indicates the thickness of the fabric's fibers. For example:

• VX21: 210 denier nylon face fabric laminate
• VX42: 420 denier nylon face fabric laminate
• X50: 500 denier nylon face fabric laminate

The "VX" and "X" prefixes signify different types of laminates. VX fabrics are four-layer laminates, while X fabrics are three-layer laminates.

Layers Explained: X3(X) vs. X4(VX)

To better understand the differences between these laminates, let's break down the layers:

X (Three-Layer Laminates): These have a face fabric, X-ply fibers, and a film backing without the taffeta layer. This makes them slightly lighter and more flexible, though still highly durable and waterproof. Here's a closer look at some of the standout fabrics:

VX (Four-Layer Laminates): These include a face fabric, X-ply fibers, a film layer for waterproofness and rigidity, and a taffeta backing. For example, VX21 features a 210 denier nylon face fabric, X-ply fibers, a mid-layer film, and a 50 denier polyester taffeta backing.

• VX21: The world's most popular laminated pack fabric, renowned for its robustness and versatility. It features a 210-denier nylon face fabric and a 50 denier polyester taffeta backing. This four-layer laminate offers an ideal balance of weight and durability, and (bonus!) is 100% climate neutral. 
  
• VX42: This X4 laminate is the best choice for high stress/abrasion areas in combination with lighter fabrics, or for entire applications requiring exceptional strength and durability.

Dimension Polyant’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every step of their production process. They have achieved carbon neutrality and exceed environmental and labor standards set by North American and European regulatory bodies. Their focus on long-lasting durable products, responsible materials, and eco-friendly facilities ensures that they remain at the spearhead of sustainable innovation.

One of their notable sustainable products, the RX Line is 100% climate neutral and contains 100% post-consumer recycled polyester fabric. This innovation highlights their dedication to preserving the environment while delivering top-tier performance.

Choosing between fabrics can be a complex decision, but understanding the technology and details behind Dimension Polyant’s X-Pac® fabrics can help simplify the process. At ALPAKA, we’re proud to incorporate these exceptional materials into our products, to give you the best in durability, performance, and sustainability. Whether you're scaling a mountain or navigating urban jungles, Dimension Polyant’s fabrics help you conquer any adventure.