Ripstop fabric is a type of woven fabric that is more resistant to tearing and ripping than regular fabrics. It is made using a reinforcing technique where stronger reinforcement yarns are interwoven at regular intervals in a crosshatch pattern. This technique prevents small tears from easily spreading and makes the fabric more durable. Ripstop fabrics can be made from a variety of fibers, including nylon, polyester, cotton, silk, and polypropylene, with nylon content often limited to the crosshatched threads that make it tear-resistant.

Ripstop fabrics are used in a variety of applications, including yacht sails, spinnakers, hot air balloons, wingsuits, kites, free-flight models, parachutes, hovercraft skirts, lightweight tents, sleeping bags, camping hammocks, swags, flags, banners, and other applications requiring a strong lightweight fabric. Ripstop nylon is a popular type of ripstop fabric that is lightweight and comes in many different colors, sizes, and thicknesses. It is commonly used in backpacks, bags, adventure and outdoor clothing, such as jackets, pants, and shorts, as well as in temporary shelters used in emergency situations.

The ripstop weaving technique does not prevent rips from occurring, but it does stop rips from spreading once they begin. Ripstop fabrics can be made waterproof, water-resistant, fire-resistant, or have zero porosity (will not allow air or water through) . Ripstop nylon is nylon that is woven in a special way to make it extra tough, less prone to ripping than regular nylon, and more resilient, elastic, and quick-drying.