When looking for a fabric that's durable,its' important to consider the following variables; Weight of the fabric, Fiber content, Fabic construction and Technological features.

The weight of the fabric describes the density of the material or the thickness of the barrier between the wearer and the elements. The fiber content and fabric construction go hand in hand in developing a well-built durable garment.

For the ultimate in rugged longevity, choose fabrics that combine natural fiber advantages with the performance technologies. Added features can play a large role in the durabiliy of fabric. Added features such as waterproofing, wind resistance and UPF sun protection, can extend the life of the garment and protect the wearer from the elements.

Heavy cotton canvas and soft shell polyester jackets  are recommended for cold climates. Cotton canvas is durable and warm when worn in tightliy woven pattern. In contrast, a 6 oz, 100% cotton "Ridge Cloth" from Dri-Duck as seen in their Brick 4286 is an example of a great warm weather shirt.

A truly rugged material must wash and wear easily while remaining crisply attractive. "Easy care" is a guiding concept in the durable - wear marketplace. Durability is more a function of the yarn quality and the presence of some man-made fibers mixed in. Weight of the fabric also matters. In fact it is a key element in determining durability. As far as durability is concerned the % of the blend between the man-made fibers and cotton is an important consideration.

Brushed Cotton is cotton fabric that is brushed to remove all excess lint and fibers from the fabric, leaving an ultra-soft, smooth finish.

Chambray Is a light cotton or linen fabric: a fine lightweight cotton or linen fabric with colored lengthwise fibers interlaced with white. This is used in fine linens like sheets. It is also used in shirts. It is used to for a semi-casual look much like a denim but in a lighter looking fabric.

Combed cotton is cotton yarn that has been combed to remove short fibers and straighten or arrange longer fibers in parallel order resulting in a smooth yarn used in finer garments

Denim originally had dark blue, brown, or dark gray warp with a white or grey filling giving a mottled look and used only for work clothes. Long wearing, it resists snags and tears. Comes in heavy and lighter weights. Uses: Work clothes, overalls, caps, uniforms, bedspreads, slipcovers, draperies, upholstery and sportswear.

A pure Spandex filament can be stretched up to 5 times its original length and still return to its original shape. The Sami Athletica Stretch Jersey Tracksuit is 92% Cotton and 8% Spandex. This produces a very soft (Cotton) garment with superior flexibilty. Spandex fibers are used in high end quality garments. They produce a garment that has a very relaxed feeling with out the baggy look and the flexibilty will not diminish with age.

Velour is a short pile fabric that can stretch in both directions. It has a very plush hand. (see hand)

Fiber: Worsted cotton, rayon or mixture.
Weave: Steep twill (63 degrees)
A smooth durable twill-woven cloth usually of worsted, spun rayon or cotton. Clear finish, tightly woven, firm, durable,rather lustrous. Can be given a dull finish. Has single diagonal lines on the face, raised twill. Wears extremely well. Incline to shine with wear. Hard to press properly. Uses: Men's and women's tailored suits, coats, raincoats, uniforms and men's shirt 

Oilskin Cloth provides a tremendous water barrier due to the wax/oil blend not being water soluble hence allowing any incident water to run off the garment.
Wax having a crystal structure which varies and realigns with temperture ( usually created by body heat), will also allow sweat in the form of water vapour to permeate through the fabric while not allowing water through the garment - hence the waxed fabric is breathable

Garments made from wax impregnated fabric or oilskin cloth are almost carefree, and will last for many years to come. To clean your oilskin simply wipe or hose it down with tepid water. To dry, hang in a cool well ventilated area and allow to drip dry.

IMPORANT

• Do Not Use Hot Water
• Do Not Dry Clean
• Do Not Use Any Soap or Detergents
• Do Not Machine Wash
• Do Not Force Dry or Hang in Front of Fire
• Do Not Wear the Coat Near Fire or Flame

AVOID CONTACT WITH:
Spirits, Acids, Alkalis, Fertilizers or other Chemical Dusts. (If this occurs wash immediately in fresh tepid water and refurbish with our Reproofing Compound.
Direct Heat (ie. Do not leave in direct sunlight against a window)

Garments should be Reproofed every 2-3 years.