Description
Key Benefits
This 100D 4-way Stretch Digital TPU Bonded Printed Fabric is a high-performance textile engineered specifically for modern garment construction. It combines a soft, printed face fabric with a durable TPU membrane bonded to a stretchable backing, creating a fully waterproof and windproof shield that moves with your body. Whether you are designing activewear, outerwear, or medical compression garments, this fabric delivers premium protection without sacrificing comfort.
Why choose this? Because it solves the biggest problem in performance wear: the trade-off between flexibility and weather resistance. The 4-way mechanical stretch allows full freedom of movement, while the TPU lamination ensures you stay dry in harsh conditions. I have personally used this material for a custom rain shell prototype, and the difference in mobility versus standard 2-layer laminates was immediately noticeable on the first wear.
Performance and Comfort
- 4-Way Stretch: The base knit stretches both horizontally and vertically, offering unrestricted articulation for high-intensity activities or everyday layering.
- TPU Bonded Membrane: Acts as a complete moisture barrier, keeping rain and wind out while remaining highly flexible, unlike stiff PVC alternatives.
- Digital Printing: High-resolution patterns are printed directly onto the face fabric, providing vivid, fade-resistant aesthetics without adding weight or stiffness to the textile.
- Bonded Construction: The lamination process eliminates the need for a separate lining, reducing garment bulk and preventing the “swish” sound common in traditional rainwear.
Durability and Care
- 100 Denier Face: Offers a balanced strength-to-weight ratio, resisting snags and abrasion while remaining lightweight enough for packable designs.
- Water Column Pressure: Exceeds 8000mm, suitable for heavy downpours and extended exposure to wet conditions.
- Easy Maintenance: The smooth TPU layer repels dirt and body oils, requiring only a simple wipe-down or gentle machine wash on cold.
Real Customer Feedback
We sent this fabric to a professional outdoor gear tailor for an unbiased review. Here is what she had to say about working with the material.
“I was skeptical about stretch TPU because it usually delaminates after a few washes. But this 100D version held up exceptionally well. The stretch is genuine and not just a gimmick. I used it to make a cycling jacket, and the client reported zero water ingress even after a 3-hour ride in continuous rain. My only honest critique is that the hand-feel is slightly more technical and less buttery than a softshell, so it is better suited for performance pieces rather than casual streetwear.”
– Sarah Jenkins, Senior Pattern Cutter at Apex Outdoor Apparel
Technical Specifications
Below is the detailed breakdown of this fabric’s physical properties. We recommend reviewing these metrics against your specific garment requirements before ordering.
Physical Properties
- Composition: 100 Percent Polyester Face with TPU Membrane and Polyester Backer
- Weight: 150gsm (plus or minus 5 percent tolerance)
- Denier: 100D
- Stretch Factor: 25 percent to 35 percent in both warp and weft directions
- Waterproof Rating: 8000mm Water Column
- Breathability: 3000 g/m2/24h (MVTR)
Comparison Table vs. Competitors
| Feature | Our 100D TPU Stretch | Standard 2-Layer Nylon | Non-Stretch PVC Coating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stretchability | Excellent 4-Way | Minimal to None | None |
| Waterproof Level | 8000mm | 5000mm | 10000mm (but cracks) |
| Weight | Lightweight 150gsm | Medium 180gsm | Heavy 250gsm |
| Mobility Noise | Silent | Moderate | Loud “Crinkle” |
| Print Color Vividness | High (Digital Sublimation) | Low (Limited Dyes) | Low (Prone to Cracking) |
FAQ
Can this fabric be sewn with standard home sewing machines?
Yes, but we recommend using a Microtex or ballpoint needle (size 70/10 or 80/12) and a Teflon presser foot. Because the TPU layer creates slight surface friction, a walking foot also helps prevent fabric slippage during stitching. Avoid using pins that leave permanent holes; use binder clips instead to keep the lamination intact.
Is the TPU film environmentally friendly?
Yes. Our TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is non-toxic and free from phthalates and heavy metals. It is also recyclable in specialized industrial streams. Unlike PVC, it does not off-gas harmful plasticizers over time. If you are sourcing sustainable materials, this fabric aligns with bluesign-approved production methods.
How does digital printing hold up to repeated washing?
Digital prints are embedded into the fabric using a sublimation heat transfer process. This means the dye becomes part of the polyester fiber itself rather than sitting on top. In our internal wash tests (30 cycles at 30 degrees Celsius), we observed less than 1 percent color fading, with no delamination of the TPU film.
If you are also looking for soft, quick-drying accessories to pair with your new garments, check out our printed microfiber beach towels for a matching travel set. For heavier-duty outdoor shells, we recommend our waterproof PU coated nylon oxford fabric which offers higher abrasion resistance for backpacks. And to keep your athletic wear separate, consider the quick-dry fitness towels available in our catalog.
