Cordura vs Kevlar: Which Motorcycle Gear Is Best for You?

When the time comes to buy motorcycle riding gear, two names usually come in mind: Cordura and Kevlar. Choosing between Cordura vs Kevlar motorcycle gear can be confusing. One is lighter and breathable, while the other offers unmatched protection.

Both are most popular for their durability and protective properties, but they have significant differences that make them suitable for specific purposes.

In this blog, we will define the meaning, characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of motorcycle gears made from Kevlar and Cordura, helping you make a clear decision for your safety needs. Let’s break it down and help you pick the safest, most comfortable option.

What is Cordura?

Cordura is a high-performance nylon fabric that provides exceptional abrasion resistance, tear strength, water resistance, and durability. Cordura’s origin is from DuPont in 1929 and has evolved with advanced features over the years. Cordura fabric is commonly used in motorcycle jackets, pants, and gloves due to its toughness and resistance to wear.

Key Features of Cordura

• Durability: Cordura’s strong fibers ensure long-lasting performance, even in demanding conditions, making it an excellent choice for motorbike jackets, pants, and gloves.
• Abrasion Resistance: Cordura fabric can withstand significant wear and tear, providing a high level of abrasion resistance that is crucial for motorcycle riders.
• Water Resistance: Cordura has high water-resistant qualities as it is manufactured with many water-resistant coatings, offering protection against rain and moisture.
• Versatility: Cordura can be used in numerous products, from backpacks and luggage to motorcycle jackets and pants. This material is available in various weights and weaves, producing high-quality motorcycle riding gear with different levels of protection.
• Comfort: Besides being strong and durable, Cordura is also a relatively lightweight material and comfortable to wear. It is more breathable, allowing better ventilation, and has incredible moisture-wicking properties.

Pros and Cons of Cordura Fabric

Advantages

• More breathable and flexible
• Excellent abrasion resistance
• Lighter than leather
• Affordable

Limitations

• Can degrade with UV exposure
• Less heat-resistant

What is Kevlar?

Kevlar is a synthetic fiber developed in the 1960s by DuPont, a leading chemical company. Kevlar is a synthetic fiber known for its incredible strength and heat resistance. It is used in various protective motorcycle clothing like motorcycle jeans, motorbike jackets, leather motorcycle vests, motorcycle shirts, etc. Kevlar is mostly used in making body armor, composites, and industrial applications where high temperatures are unavoidable.

Key Features of Kevlar

• High Tensile Strength: Kevlar is five times stronger than steel on an equal weight basis. It provides excellent protection against high-impact forces, making it extremely effective in preventing cuts and abrasions.
• Heat Resistance: The fiber can withstand high temperatures without melting or degrading quality, providing added protection in case of a fire or extreme heat exposure.
• Lightweight: Despite high strength quality, Kevlar is lightweight, contributing in maintaining mobility and comfort.
• Flexibility: Kevlar fibers weave into fabrics with reinforced stitching that offer flexibility with strengthening of the material.
• Impact Resistance: The material is excellent at absorbing and spreading out the force of a hit, which is beneficial in protecting the rider from getting hurt.

Pros and Cons of Kevlar Lining Material

Advantages

• Exceptional abrasion and cut resistance
• Withstands high temperatures
• Used in protective body armor

Limitations

• More expensive
• Less flexible
• Not waterproof

Cordura vs Kevlar: Top 7 Key Differences

Here’s a detailed comparison of Cordura vs Kevlar, highlighting their unique features, advantages, and ideal use cases:

Abrasion Resistance:  Both materials are extremely durable, making it suitable for everyday riding and providing a good balance between protection and comfort. However, Kevlar is more resistant to cuts, tears, and abrasions. Kevlar is often used in critical areas like elbows, knees, legs, back, and shoulders. Cordura is more prone to scratches and scuffs.

Impact Protection: Kevlar is extremely strong and offers excellent protection when layered, usually used as internal armor. Cordura is a durable fabric, but it doesn’t provide impact protection on its own — it performs better when reinforced with padding or armor.

Heat Resistance: Cordura features heat resistance properties, but is not as effective as Kevlar in extremely high temperatures. Kevlar has a higher heat resistance than Cordura, with a melting point of around 420°C (800°F) compared to Cordura’s 200°C (392°F). Kevlar material is Ideal for riders concerned about heat and fire hazards.

Weather and Water Resistance: Kevlar is not naturally water-resistant and needs external treatment or layering to protect against moisture. Cordura, on the other hand, is often coated with materials like PU or Gore-Tex, making it resistant to both water and wind.

Weight and Comfort: Cordura fabric is more comfortable and suitable for long journeys because of its soft texture and lighter weight. Pure Kevlar gear can be less flexible and comfortable. Kevlar is generally heavier than Cordura due to its dense weaving and higher thread count. Kevlar is often used in combination with other soft fabrics to enhance comfort.

Cost: Cordura is more affordable than Kevlar, especially for smaller quantities. Kevlar is expensive because of its top-notch protective qualities and advanced manufacturing process. Cordura is a popular choice for budget-conscious riders.

Maintenance and Longevity: Kevlar requires very careful washing because high temperatures or heat drying can weaken its fibers. It should only be washed in cold water and air-dried to maintain its strength. Cordura, however, is much easier to care for — it can handle regular washing and frequent use without losing its durability.

Final Verdict

• Choose Cordura for durability, flexibility, and cost-effective gear.
• Choose Kevlar for high-risk situations needing maximum protection (e.g., racing, combat, fire safety).

Kevlar Vs Cordura: Comparison Table

Cordura vs Kevlar comparison focuses on factors like abrasion resistance, impact protection, comfort, heat resistance, maintenance, and cost. Kevlar is stronger and more heat-resistant, ideal for high-impact zones, while Cordura is more affordable, breathable, and flexible — better for everyday riding gear.

Kevlar + Cordura: The Best of Both Worlds

Many modern motorcycle jackets use Cordura as the base and reinforce critical zones with Kevlar. This hybrid design offers:

• Comfort and airflow
• Extra protection where needed
• Great value for safety-conscious riders

Which Gear Is Right for Your Riding Style?

• Touring/Adventure Riders: Cordura is your best bet for weather protection and comfort.
• Sport Riders: Kevlar offers better impact protection and flexibility.
• Commuters: A mix of both might be ideal—Kevlar-lined Cordura jackets or jeans.

Which is Safer? Cordura or Kevlar?

Impact Protection

Remember, material alone isn’t enough. Impact protection also depends on armor inserts (like CE-rated pads). Both Cordura and Kevlar jackets can come with top-tier armor.

Abrasion Testing Standards (CE Ratings)

CE Level A, AA, and AAA ratings give you a better idea. Many Kevlar garments reach AAA, the highest level of protection.

Real-World Performance: Kevlar Vs Cordura

Crash Scenarios

In low-speed crashes, Cordura fabric can hold its own. But when sliding at 80 mph? Kevlar’s superior abrasion resistance provides a clear advantage.

Rider Reviews and Feedback

• Riders report Kevlar jeans as lightweight and less bulky than full leather.
• Cordura jackets are praised for all-season adaptability and storage options.
• Kevlar-lined gloves provide better grip and heat protection.

Best Brands Using Cordura and Kevlar

• Cordura: Great Bikers Gear, Alpinestars, Rev’It, Olympia
• Kevlar: Great Bikers Gear, Dainese, Rokker, Saint, Bull-it

Great Bikers Gear Commitment to Safety: Kevlar VS Cordura Motorcycle Gear Range

Great Bikers Gear Company is a renowned top-quality motorcycle clothing and accessories shop online, manufacturing a wide range of bike gear made from both Kevlar and Cordura materials.

Their extensive range of motorcycle clothing includes Kevlar shirts, Kevlar leggings, Kevlar jeans, and Cordura jackets, each designed to provide maximum protection and comfort for riders. Their dedication to quality ensures riders are equipped with the best motorcycle clothing and accessories for their adventures.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Cordura vs Kevlar

Your choice between Cordura vs Kevlar depends on how and where you ride. If you are a casual rider who prioritizes comfort, versatility, and affordability, Cordura is the best choice. It provides necessary protection, and it is the most appropriate material for riders who want to enjoy rides in the nearby town.

However, if you require the highest level of protection, especially in high-risk areas, Kevlar is the superior option. Its exceptional strength and heat resistance make it ideal for riders who demand the utmost safety for rides.

Best motorcycle clothing and accessories stores in the UK offer both Cordura and Kevlar combination motorcycle riding gear to leverage the strengths of each material. Motorcycle Jackets, Motorcycle vests, and gloves often feature Cordura for general construction and Kevlar reinforcements in critical areas. This advanced innovative approach offers a balanced combination of comfort, protection, and durability.

To sum up, whether you choose Cordura, Kevlar, or a combination of both, investing in quality protective gear is crucial for your safety. Make sure to consider your specific riding conditions, comfort preferences, and budget when selecting the material that is right for you.

For many riders, a combination of Cordura and Kevlar gear offers the best balance of comfort and safety. Stay safe and ride with confidence!

FAQs About Cordura Vs Kevlar:

Is Kevlar better than Cordura for motorcycle gear?

Ans: Kevlar is better in terms of cut, impact, and heat protection, making it ideal for high-risk riding. Cordura offers moderate protection but is more comfortable and budget-friendly for daily commuting.

Does Cordura melt in the heat?

Ans: Yes, Cordura can melt at temperatures around 200°C, which can be risky in case of high heat exposure. Kevlar, on the other hand, can resist heat up to 420°C, offering superior fire resistance.

Which is lighter, Cordura or Kevlar?

Ans: Cordura is generally lighter and softer, making it more suitable for long rides with better ventilation. Kevlar, while stronger, is denser and slightly heavier due to its tight fiber weave.

Can I wear a Cordura for long rides?

Ans: Yes, Cordura is an excellent choice for long-distance rides because it provides breathability, moisture-wicking, and comfort. It also reduces fatigue by being lightweight and flexible.

Are Kevlar jeans worth it?

Ans: Kevlar jeans are worth it for riders who want protection without sacrificing style and comfort. They protect critical areas during falls, making them ideal for urban and touring riders.

Can I wash Kevlar gear?

Ans: Yes, Kevlar gear is washable, but it requires care to maintain its integrity. Always use cold water, mild detergent, and avoid fabric softeners or high-heat drying.

Is a mixed material gear good?

Ans: Yes, gear combining Kevlar and Cordura offers the best of both materials — comfort and strong protection. This hybrid approach enhances mobility while reinforcing key areas for maximum safety.

Is Cordura better than Kevlar?

Ans: Cordura is more comfortable, breathable, and affordable, making it ideal for everyday riding. Kevlar provides better protection against abrasions and heat, making it safer for high-risk situations.

Is Cordura good for motorcycle gear?

Ans: Cordura motorcycle gear is durable, lightweight, and provides good abrasion resistance, making it ideal for daily and touring riders. However, for maximum protection, it should be paired with CE-rated armor or Kevlar reinforcements.

Which material is best for hot weather riding?

Ans: Cordura mesh jackets with ventilation are great for hot climates. Kevlar liners can get warm if not properly ventilated.