Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF), formerly known as Cuben Fibre, has transformed the world of ultralight backpacking. This high-tech fabric, popularised by tent manufacturers such as Hyperlite Mountain Gear, offers exceptional strength-to-weight performance, full waterproofing, and all-weather reliability. It’s now a common choice for ultralight tents, backpacks, and accessories, allowing adventurers to shed weight without sacrificing durability.
What is Dyneema Fabric?
Dyneema is essentially Polyethene Fibres laminated between thin polyester/Mylar film layers. The Dyneema fibres provide the fabric’s remarkable tensile strength, while the laminate gives it structure and makes it fully waterproof.
Its incredible strength comes from stretching Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethene (UHMWPE) so that the molecules align into... keep reading here.
Key Properties for Outdoor Gear
So what makes Dyneema so good for ultralight tents and backpacks? It’s not just light, it combines strength, waterproofing, and stability in ways that most traditional fabrics can’t match.
● Fully Waterproof: The film layers create a permanent waterproof barrier, unlike coatings that can wear off or degrade.
● Non-Absorbent: Does not take on water or gain weight, even after days of rain.
● Near-Zero Stretch: Keeps tents taut in wet or windy conditions and prevents packs from sagging under load.
● Exceptional Strength: Dyneema fibres give the fabric outstanding tear resistance for its weight, ideal for demanding environments.
● Easy To Repair: Small tears can be quickly fixed with duct tape or similar, unlike tents such as silpolly, which require special adhesive, which you almost certainly won't find on the trail.
What's The Difference?
When browsing Dyneema-based product tents, backpacks, or accessories, you’ll often see three classifications: DCF (Dyneema Composite Fabric), DCH (Dyneema Composite Hybrid), and the newer DWC (Dyneema Woven Composite). Each uses Dyneema fibres but in different constructions for different purposes... Find what they are here.
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