What Do We Understand By Duck Fabric?

Also known by the name duck, tent canvas can actually be a natural fiber fabric, or heavy woven cotton. The term derives itself from the ‘doek’, a Dutch word. For a long time this fabric has been used for making stuff like tents, heavy clothing, tarps, sails, and backpacks.

Army Duck

If you want a wall tent, we suggest looking for a shelter duck aka army duck. Shelter tent duck fabric is a double fill canvas (warp filled both cross and lengthwise). Warping is a weaving method which entails that the thread used is doubled by twisting and combining two threads making it stronger and thicker. This heavy thread is then used in two weave directions which results in a more durable and sturdier weave canvas.

Army duck fabric was primarily created for the usage by US Army and to meet its specifications. If we consider how this fabric used to be few decades ago, the estimate would say it used to weigh up to 17 oz. As a matter of fact, it was so heavy that an entire army had to be employed for setting the tent up.

However, how heavy a tent is can’t be considered a parameter in determining its quality. Heavier material doesn’t always promise better quality.  The quality of weave, fire and water-resistant properties, and anti-mildew treatment are the factors that define the quality of the tent.

To improve the life of duck tents, it is essential to follow proper care routine. It can include performing anti-mildew treatments on a timely basis as well as paraffin treatments for waterproofing.