This FAQ explains what “Extremely” materials are, how they’re utilized in ultralight backpacking gear, and the way they differ from different materials for making backpacks, tents/tarps, and stuff sacks. You’ll discover execs and cons, care, restore, and shopping for suggestions, plus comparisons with Dyneema Composite Cloth (DCF), Woven Dyneema, X-Pac, Robic Nylon, and conventional nylons.
Q: What are “Extremely” materials?
“Extremely” sometimes refers to a household of UHMWPE (Extremely Excessive Molecular Weight Polyethylene) laminates with a woven UHMWPE face cloth bonded to a water-proof movie backing. Well-liked variants embody names like Extremely 100, Extremely 200, Extremely 400, and so on. The quantity typically displays relative face cloth density/weight. Its key elements are:
- Face: Woven UHMWPE yarns (very excessive power, low stretch, glorious abrasion resistance).
- Backing: A laminated waterproof movie (typically polyester-based) for water resistance and dimensional stability.
- Scrim or reinforcement: Some variations add scrim or further layers for tear resistance.
Q: How are Extremely materials completely different from “Dyneema”, DCF, or Woven Dyneema?
Dyneema is a model identify for UHMWPE (Extremely Excessive Molecular Weight Polyethylene) fibers. Extremely materials use UHMWPE (an identical efficiency fiber) however as a woven face in a laminate. DCF (Dyneema Composite Cloth) is a nonwoven UHMWPE fiber grid sandwiched between movies. Extremely makes use of a woven UHMWPE face plus a movie backing. Woven Dyneema is equally made however with Dyneema-branded fibers. In apply, DCF excels for the lightest waterproof shelters and ultralight stuff sacks. Extremely and Woven Dyneema shine for abrasion-heavy makes use of like backpacks, pockets, and pack bottoms whereas staying gentle and waterproof.
Q: Why are Extremely materials common for backpacks?
- Abrasion resistance: Woven UHMWPE is extraordinarily robust towards scuffs and granite scrapes.
- Power-to-weight: Greater tear power per weight than many conventional nylons and a few X-Pac variants.
- Waterproofness: The movie backing makes pack our bodies extremely water-proof (seams nonetheless matter).
- Dimensional stability: Low stretch retains packs feeling crisp and supportive.
- Extremely backpacks can be found from Zpacks, Durston, ULA, and Search Exterior, amongst others. Many cottage ultralight backpack producers use Extremely now for backpacks as a substitute of DCF or Robic Nylon.
Q: Are Extremely materials used for tents?
- Much less widespread than DCF for fly canopies as a result of Extremely is heavier per sq. yard.
- Extremely could also be utilized in high-wear and abrasion-prone tent zones: flooring, corners, stake-out patches, and snow skirts.
- Tarptent sells a number of tents made with Extremely, together with the Arc Dome 2 Extremely and the Scarp 1 Extremely.
Q: What about stuff sacks and equipment?
- Extremely is great for abrasion-prone storage (stake sacks, outdoors pockets, bear bag luggage) the place commonplace DCF may put on quicker.
- For totally waterproof, ultra-light dry luggage, skinny DCF is commonly lighter; for tough dealing with, Extremely has higher scuff resistance. In each instances, you need to be certain that the seams are seam-taped and sufficiently sturdy to forestall water from leaking in.
Q: What weights and sorts of Extremely are widespread?
- Extremely 100/200: Lighter variants fitted to pack our bodies on fast-and-light builds, pockets, and reinforcement.
- Extremely 400 and better: Heavier-duty for pack bottoms, shoulder strap anchor zones, and alpine abuse.
- Count on a variety roughly akin to 150D–400D nylon weights, however with a lot larger tear/abrasion resistance on the similar mass.
Q: How waterproof are Extremely materials?
- The fabric is waterproof, however the waterproofness of merchandise made with it will depend on seam building, zippers, and design.
- Some backpack producers (Zpacks) seam tape their seams; others suggest a pack liner for full safety in prolonged rain.
Q: How do Extremely materials examine with X-Pac?
- Each are laminates with a water-proof movie.
- X-Pac sometimes makes use of a polyester face with an X-ply reinforcement; it’s stiff and sturdy, broadly used.
- Extremely swaps the face to woven UHMWPE, rising abrasion and tear resistance for the burden.
- Extremely is commonly pricier than widespread X-Pac variants however might be lighter/harder at related efficiency ranges.
Q: How do Extremely materials examine with high-tenacity nylon or Robic (which can be excessive tenacity nylon)?
- Nylon is cheaper, extra supple, and might be very sturdy at larger deniers. Extremely usually gives larger tear/abrasion resistance per gram and higher long-term water resistance (on account of movie laminate vs. PU coatings).
- Nylon coatings can break down over time; Extremely’s movie backing avoids that failure mode.
Q. What are the Execs in favor of Extremely materials?
- Excellent abrasion resistance for the burden.
- Excessive tear power and low stretch.
- Waterproof laminate backing; doesn’t take up water.
- Holds form properly in packs.
- Good long-term sturdiness for tough trails and off-trail use.
Q: What are the Cons of Extremely materials?
- Value: Premium pricing, particularly at larger weights.
- Stiff hand: Much less drape and extra “crisp” really feel in contrast with nylon; might be noisy.
- Warmth sensitivity: UHMWPE softens at decrease temperatures than nylon; steer clear of excessive warmth sources.
- Seam complexity: Greatest outcomes typically require taping or cautious stitching plus seam sealing; DIY might be trickier.
- Laminate failure modes: Over a few years, edges and high-crease areas can present movie put on or delamination if repeatedly hard-folded.
Q. Is Extremely higher than DCF for packs?
Typically sure. For pack our bodies and pockets, Extremely’s abrasion resistance outperforms typical DCF at related weights. Many cottage pack makers have shifted from DCF pack our bodies to Extremely.
Q: Is Extremely higher than DCF for tents?
No, for giant canopies in case your aim is minimal weight. DCF gives decrease weight and really low stretch. Extremely could also be chosen for flooring or reinforcement patches.
Q: How does Extremely deal with UV publicity?
UHMWPE fibers have good UV resistance, however laminates and adhesives can age underneath extended solar.
Sensible takeaway: Path use is ok; don’t retailer long-term in direct solar.
Q: Does Extremely stretch or sag when moist?
Little or no. It maintains stress properly and doesn’t take up water, so weight stays constant, rain or shine.
Q: Are Extremely backpacks really waterproof with no rain cowl?
- Pack physique panels might be waterproof, however needle holes, seams, hydration ports, and zippers are entry factors. Seam-taping will increase the general water resistance of Extremely packs
- A pack liner (DCF, Nylofume, or trash compactor bag) continues to be essentially the most dependable choice for sustained rain.
Q: How do Extremely materials really feel in comparison with nylon or DCF?
- Stiffer and crisper than nylon; much less “crinkly” than skinny DCF however nonetheless agency.
- Slides over rock and bark with out fuzzing as shortly as nylon.
- Straightforward to scrub: dust doesn’t embed as a lot as on textured nylon.
Q: What are the burden financial savings of Extremely in contrast with nylon?
- A well-designed Extremely pack might be many ounces lighter than a comparable nylon pack of the identical sturdiness.
- Count on larger good points on the similar sturdiness stage; or, on the similar weight, count on a harder product.
Q: Are Extremely materials noisy?
- They will rustle however are usually quieter than very skinny DCF.
- Not silent like comfortable nylon, however most hikers discover the noise a non-issue.
Q: How do I select the precise Extremely weight for a pack?
- Sub-25 lb hundreds, on-trail: Extremely 200 for physique, heavier for backside.
- Combined path/off-trail or frequent granite sits: Extremely 400 physique/backside or hybrid (200 physique, 400 backside).
- Heavy hundreds or alpine: Prioritize Extremely 400 on the underside and anchor factors.
Q: How do you restore Extremely materials within the subject?
- Clear and dry the realm
- Use high-quality restore tape appropriate with laminates (e.g., Tenacious Tape, or brand-specific UHMWPE tape).
- Spherical patch corners, press firmly, and if potential, patch each side.
- For pack bottoms with abrasion holes, a bigger patch with stitched perimeter plus seam sealer is greatest when again house.
Q: How sturdy are Extremely pack bottoms?
- Considerably harder than many nylon and DCF bottoms at comparable weight.
- Extremely 400 is akin to Woven Dyneema
- Nonetheless, sitting backpacks on sharp rocks repeatedly will ultimately put on via. Be conscious when dropping your pack.
Q: Do Extremely materials delaminate?
- All laminates can delaminate, given sufficient time and abusive creasing.
- Decrease arduous, repeated folds alongside the identical line. Roll loosely or stuff.
Q: Are Extremely materials breathable?
- No. They’re waterproof laminates. Breathability in packs comes from suspension design (vents, mesh), not the material itself.
Q: How properly does Extremely deal with chilly and warmth?
- Chilly: Stays versatile sufficient for regular use; slight stiffening is widespread.
- Warmth: Avoid scorching stoves, automobile dashboards, or fires. UHMWPE softens/melts at decrease temperatures than nylon.
Q: Are Extremely packs good for thru-hiking?
- Sure. They stability low weight with sturdiness, particularly for rocky trails and frequent set-downs.
- Many thru-hikers use Extremely packs, pairing with a water-proof liner.
Q: Can Extremely be used for hanging bear luggage?
- Sure. It’s robust and light-weight. Pair it with an excellent wire and correct grasp method.
- For rodent resistance, no comfortable cloth is immune; odor management and grasp self-discipline matter extra.
Q. How does Extremely examine to Cordura?
- Cordura (a branded nylon) could be very sturdy, particularly at excessive deniers.
- For a given weight, Extremely tends to beat Cordura in tear/abrasion resistance.
Q: What are widespread failure factors in Extremely backpacks?
- Stitching at anchor factors, if not correctly bolstered.
- Zippers and mesh pockets, not the Extremely panels themselves.
- Seam tapes at high-flex areas if poorly utilized.
Q: How do you clear Extremely gear?
- Rinse dust and salt with cool water.
- Spot clear with delicate cleaning soap and a comfortable sponge.
- Air dry totally out of direct excessive warmth.
- Keep away from harsh solvents and machine washing.
Q: How do you retailer Extremely gear?
- Dry fully.
- Stuff or roll loosely to keep away from arduous crease traces.
- Retailer cool, darkish, and away from sharp objects and compression weights.
Q: Is Extremely environmentally pleasant?
- Extremely is a plastic-based laminate. Longevity helps scale back replacements, however end-of-life recycling is restricted.
- Lengthen lifespan via care and restore; repurpose worn panels as organizers or stake sacks.
Q: Will Extremely make my backpack totally submersible?
- No. Most packs have needle holes, zipper paths, and openings that leak underneath strain.
- If submersion is a priority (packrafting), use a devoted dry bag liner or a pack designed for that function.
Q: What about condensation and breathability in shelters utilizing Extremely?
- Extremely isn’t breathable, just like DCF and lots of coated materials.
- Condensation habits will depend on shelter design (single vs. double wall, venting).
- Use vents, sensible pitching, and preserve moist gear outdoors the sleeping space.
Q: How do Extremely materials examine with siliconized polyester (silpoly) for shelters?
- Silpoly might be lighter and cheaper for giant canopies than Extremely, and it’s quieter and extra supple.
- Extremely beats silpoly on abrasion and tear resistance on the similar weight, nevertheless it’s heavier than top-end silpoly for equal protection.
- Tarptent was the primary cottage firm to make use of Extremely for tents.
Q: Are Extremely Backpacks overkill for weekend journeys?
- In case you’re budget-conscious, nylon or X-Pac could go well with you effective.
- In case you worth sturdiness and need to preserve weight low with out babying your pack, Extremely is a superb selection.
Q: What’s the underside line: Extremely vs. DCF and X-Pac for various gadgets?
- Packs: Extremely is commonly the candy spot—lighter and harder than many X-Pac choices; far harder than DCF in abrasion zones. Extremely 400 is on par with the Woven Dyneema, now provided by Hyperlite Mountain Gear, on their hottest backpacks.
- Tents: DCF for fly canopies when weight is king; Extremely for flooring and reinforcements.
- Stuff sacks: DCF for ultralight dry luggage; Extremely for rough-use sacks and exterior pockets.
Conclusion
Extremely materials convey woven UHMWPE toughness to waterproof laminates, making them standout selections for backpacks and abrasion-prone gear whereas nonetheless being gentle. They don’t change DCF for absolutely the lightest tent canopies, however they beat many options in pack sturdiness at a given weight. If you’d like a low-weight pack that shrugs off tough trails and repeated set-downs, Extremely is likely one of the greatest choices out there right this moment.
SectionHiker by no means accepts cost for gear opinions or editorial protection. If you purchase via affiliate hyperlinks on our website, we could earn a small fee at no further value to you. Assist us proceed to check and write unsponsored and unbiased gear opinions, mountain climbing and backpacking FAQs, and free mountain climbing guides.