UV resistant synthetic. Somewhat stretchy. Variable elasticity. Low chafe resistance.
Acrylic Coated Polyester
Synthetic polyester fabric, coated with acrylic film after weaving. Low Stretch. Low Elasticity. High ultimate chafe resistance. Waterproof.
Natural fiber. Somewhat stretchy. Low elasticity. Low chafe resistance. Vulnerable to UV and mildew without treatment. Hydrophilic.
Synthetic. Stretchy in lighter weights. High elasticity. Moderate chafe resistance.
Synthetic. Low stretch (particularly in types produced for sailcloth). Low elasticity. High chafe resistance.
Synthetic. Initial low stretch (degrades to high stretch and open weave). Low elasticity. Moderate chafe resistance. Initially inexpensive.
Sailcloth is sold by length from rolls of various widths. It is rated for a given weight in GSM (Grams per Square Meter) or Oz (Ounces per square yard). To convert GSM to Oz, divide by 33.9. To convert Oz to GSM, multiply by 33.9.
This standard is not always followed, however, and weight is sometimes calculated by length of a particular fabric (rather than by unit squared). When in doubt, confirm the units involved.
The following links are to manufacturers, where possible. No endorsement of any product or supplier is implied.
Coastguard® is a solution-dyed acrylic marine exterior grade canvas. This fabric is mold and mildew resistant and its proprietary finish gives it excellent water and stain resistance.
ODYSSEY III™ is an acrylic coated 100% woven polyester fabric (300 denier) with a clear back coat. It is characterized by excellent strength, durability, tear and abrasion resistance, dimensional stability, & UV and mildew resistance.
Sunbrella™ is a soft, breathable, solution-dyed acrylic that is UV, water, and mildew resistant and does not noticeably shrink or stretch. Both sides of this marine fabric are the same, meaning that either side can be exposed to the outside.
TOP GUN™ is an acrylic-coated 100% woven polyester fabric (600 denier) utilizing a proprietary process to coat both the top and bottom, thus allowing the fabric to be completely reversible. It is characterized by excellent strength, durability, tear and abrasion resistance, dimensional stability, UV and mildew resistance.
TOP NOTCH™ is a 100% solution dyed polyester fabric (840 denier) with a fluorocarbon finish, resulting in a fabric that is breathable, reversible, water repellent and has a luxurious hand (no film coating).
TYVEK™ and similar (housewrap) products are composed of a flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers. They are extremely strong and resistant to flogging, but easily cut. Ease of joining with specialized tape has encouraged the use of this material for experimental and even permanent sails. Initially, they are somewhat noisy, but once (pre)wrinkled, they quiet down.
Rochford: Suppliers of many marine fabrics.
Sailrite: Suppliers of sailcloth and sailmaking materials.
DuckworksMagazine: Sell colored, un-logoed TYVEK™.
Source: JR Glossary Project, 2016