Jump to: Face fabrics · Barrier layers · Shells & fills · Recycled & certification considerations
Face fabrics (blankets & throws)
| Material | Also called | Best for | Used in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polar fleece (commonly 240–380 GSM) | anti-pill fleece | Value-focused throws and mats; warmth and softness vary by construction | Fleece throws, picnic |
| Coral fleece | coral velvet | Longer-pile, dense hand for throws; feel varies by finish | Fleece throws |
| Sherpa | faux lambswool | Lofted reverse faces where added warmth is desired | Fleece throws |
| Micromink / flannel fleece | mink, plush | Smooth, dense pile for home throws | Fleece throws |
Choosing weight and family? See fleece weight (GSM) guide and fleece vs woven vs cotton-blend.
Barrier layers (picnic & beach)
| Backing | Typical position | Selection notes | Common applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| PEVA | Cost-sensitive | Lightweight film; barrier performance depends on gauge, lamination and seams | Picnic blankets |
| PU | Mid-range | Coating or film where drape and abrasion performance are priorities | Picnic blankets |
| TPU | Higher-cost | Flexible film where toughness is a priority; results depend on grade and construction | Picnic blankets |
These material names do not establish a finished product's waterproof rating. Specify the test method, sample conditioning and pass criteria. Full comparison: PEVA vs PU vs TPU backing.
Shells & fills (beach & camping)
| Material | Best for | Used in |
|---|---|---|
| 210T / 420D ripstop & parachute nylon | Lightweight shells; tear resistance, drying and sand shedding depend on fiber, weave, denier and finish | Beach mats |
| 600D Oxford polyester | Ground-contact shells; abrasion results depend on weave, coating and test method | Camping mats |
| EPE foam (3 / 5 / 8 mm) | Cushioning and thermal separation; results depend on density, thickness and assembly | Camping mats |
Recycled & certification considerations
| Material | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| rPET fleece (recycled polyester) | Programs with recycled-content targets | Verify the recycled-content percentage and the scope and validity of any certification for the specified material |
| Cotton / cotton-blend woven | Natural-fiber or blended throws | May use yarn-dyed or jacquard constructions; confirm fiber content and care requirements |
Compliance and environmental claims require product-specific evidence and a defined scope. Further reading: sustainable and recycled materials and textile certifications. Term definitions in the glossary.
FAQ
Which fleece is softest vs most cost-effective?
Perceived softness and cost vary by weight, pile, finish and order specification. Polar fleece is often chosen for value-focused programs; coral fleece usually has a longer, denser pile; micromink is typically smooth and dense; sherpa is commonly used for loft and warmth.
Which waterproof backing should I pick for picnic blankets?
Choice depends on film or coating grade, thickness, lamination, seam construction, care method and the required test result. PEVA is often used for cost-sensitive builds, PU where drape is important, and TPU where flexibility and toughness are priorities. Confirm performance with a defined finished-product test.
What should buyers verify for recycled (rPET) fleece?
Verify the recycled-content percentage, scope and validity of any certification, material composition, color and hand requirements, and the test method used for the finished product.
What information helps compare an unlisted material?
Use a measurable specification: fiber content, construction, weight, thickness, finish, color standard, care method, end use and required test criteria. Compare samples against those same boundaries.