Propper Icon® Softshell Vest

Twill weaves are characterized by small diagonal lines and are generally heavier than their ripstop counterparts. The higher thread count of twill weaves make them excellent at resisting wind, water and wrinkles.

Ripstop is a type of plain weave that integrates coarse fibers throughout the fabric in a grid pattern. This reinforced grid provides optimal protection against rips and tears while retaining lightweight characteristics.

This heavy-weight cloth manufactured in a twill weave is a very sturdy and long-life performer in the public safety community. The fabric blend balances comfort, durability and color integrity while offering wind and wrinkle resistance. It is slightly heavier than its ripstop counterpart and if torn, twill will not prevent a tear from growing like ripstop weaves do.

Propper is proud to offer Battle Rip®, our exclusive polyester/cotton blend manufactured in a ripstop weave for superior longevity. This all-season fabric is durable, comfortable and fade-resistant. These qualities, along with color integrity, quick-drying capabilities and tear prevention, make Battle Rip® our fabric of choice for the public safety community.

Cotton ripstop was once the fabric of choice for the original Hot Weather BDUs (HWBDU) in the late 80’s because it is lighter-weight, breathable, tear-resistant and comfortable. As an all-natural fiber, cotton will fade, wrinkle and shrink faster than modern synthetic fabric blends. Cotton fibers will also lose their strength under industrial wear and long-term laundering.

This fabric blend is widely used in public safety apparel due to its balance between durability and color integrity versus 100% cotton. The ripstop weave contributes to abrasion and tear-resistance. Choose 60% cotton / 40% polyester ripstop BDUs when heavy-duty wear is expected in warmer conditions.

This heavy-duty fabric provides excellent color integrity, shrink resistance and long-lasting durability. The addition of synthetic fibers make the material more rugged and quicker to dry than materials with a higher percentage of cotton fibers. The twill weave also contributes to wind and wrinkle resistance but does not provide protection against rips or tears.