What Is Denier and Why It Matters for Outdoor Gear

If you’ve shopped for backpacking or camping gear, you’ve probably seen the term denier. Denier refers to the thickness of individual fibers in a fabric and is often used as a quick indicator of durability and weight.

Watch the video below to learn how denier affects fabric strength, durability, and performance—and why material type and fabric treatments matter just as much as the number itself.

In the video, we break down the differences between nylon and polyester, explain tensile vs. tear strength, and show how fabric treatments like calendaring impact real-world gear performance. We also cover which denier ranges work best for backpacks, tents, outerwear, and ultralight setups.

If you want to choose gear that balances durability and weight the right way, this video will give you the context you need.