No Tariff Worries — Our Cambodia & Thailand Factories Ready.

What Materials Are Commonly Used in Bag Manufacturing?

Bag manufacturing involves a wide spectrum of natural and synthetic bag materials, each chosen for its durability, weight, aesthetics, and cost. In today’s competitive market, understanding the right materials for bag manufacturing is essential not only for product performance but also for branding and sustainability. Leading companies like Everich Outdoor provide OEM and ODM solutions for high-quality bags and backpacks.


Leather in Bag Manufacturing

Variants: Full-grain, top-grain, split leather, PU (synthetic leather) Advantages: Extremely durable, luxury appeal, molds with use, supports embossing/branding. Challenges: Expensive, heavy, moisture-sensitive, requires skilled craftsmanship. Best For: Luxury handbags, executive briefcases, duffels, premium backpacks.

Leather has long been a premium choice in bag manufacturing. Genuine leather appeals to the luxury market, while PU leather offers a cost-effective and vegan-friendly alternative for brands seeking to produce stylish leather bags at scale. Many Everich Outdoor clients select leather materials for high-end custom bags.


Cotton Canvas for Sustainable Bag Production

Advantages: Breathable, strong, customizable, eco-friendly (especially organic cotton). Challenges: Not naturally waterproof, heavier than synthetics, may shrink/wrinkle. Best For: Tote bags, casual backpacks, grocery bags, beach bags.

Cotton canvas is popular in sustainable bag manufacturing, especially among brands promoting eco-friendly bags. Organic cotton canvas attracts environmentally conscious consumers while offering a durable yet natural look. Everich Outdoor supports canvas bag customization for both fashion and promotional purposes.


Polyester in Affordable Bag Manufacturing

Advantages: Affordable, lightweight, colorfast, wrinkle-resistant. Challenges: Non-biodegradable, less premium feel. Best For: School bags, sports bags, budget travel bags.

Polyester is widely used in bag manufacturing due to its affordability and performance. The introduction of rPET (recycled polyester) allows manufacturers to create durable eco-friendly bags from post-consumer PET bottles, combining function with sustainability. Everich Outdoor offers polyester bag production for bulk orders and custom designs.


Nylon for Outdoor and Tactical Bags

Advantages: Very strong, abrasion-resistant, water-resistant, lightweight. Challenges: UV-sensitive, pricier than polyester. Best For: Hiking backpacks, tactical gear, outdoor bags, waterproof pouches.

Nylon is a staple in outdoor bag manufacturing thanks to its strength and water resistance. Depending on the denier (210D–1000D), manufacturers can create lightweight daypacks or rugged nylon bags for heavy-duty use. Everich Outdoor specializes in high-performance nylon backpacks and tactical gear bags.


PVC & PU Coated Fabrics in Bag Manufacturing

Advantages: Waterproof, easy to clean, versatile finishes, affordable alternative to leather. Challenges: PVC is less eco-friendly, PU is lighter but less durable. Best For: Cooler bags, marine bags, protective covers, waterproof duffels.

These coated fabrics are often used in waterproof bags. They combine durability with cost-effectiveness, making them a popular option in large-scale bag manufacturing for outdoor and marine use. Many brands collaborate with Everich Outdoor for custom waterproof bag production.


Tarpaulin for Heavy-Duty Bag Production

Advantages: 100% waterproof, UV-resistant, highly tear-resistant. Challenges: Bulky, heavy, less flexible. Best For: Industrial tool bags, outdoor gear carriers, large equipment bags.

Tarpaulin is a high-performance material in bag manufacturing, favored for its durability in industrial and outdoor environments where waterproof bags are essential. Everich Outdoor can produce durable tarpaulin bags for commercial and promotional uses.


Neoprene in Protective Bag Design

Advantages: Flexible, shock-absorbent, heat/water resistant. Challenges: Limited breathability, heavier than fabrics. Best For: Laptop sleeves, sports gear, diving bags.

Neoprene is valued in bag manufacturing for its cushioning and protective properties, making it ideal for laptop sleeves, sports gear, and water sports applications. Everich Outdoor provides neoprene bag solutions for both functional and promotional purposes.


Jute & Burlap in Eco-Friendly Bag Manufacturing

Advantages: 100% natural, biodegradable, strong, rustic look. Challenges: Poor water resistance, coarse texture. Best For: Eco-friendly shopping totes, promotional bags, wine gift bags.

Jute and burlap are natural choices for eco-friendly bags. As sustainability trends grow, more brands are turning to biodegradable materials in sustainable bag manufacturing. Everich Outdoor supports custom jute bag production for marketing campaigns and eco-friendly product lines.


Specialty Technical Fabrics for Advanced Bag Manufacturing

Examples: Fireproof, smell-proof (activated carbon), reflective, reinforced mesh. Advantages: Niche performance benefits for specific applications. Challenges: Higher costs, limited fashion applications. Best For: Safety gear, adventure sports bags, functional hybrid designs.

Technical fabrics are transforming bag manufacturing, offering advanced solutions like fire resistance, odor control, and enhanced durability. They are especially important for specialized industries and performance-driven bag materials. Everich Outdoor can integrate technical fabrics into custom bag designs for specific client needs.


Conclusion: Choosing the Right Material for Bag Manufacturing

The future of bag manufacturing lies in balancing performance, cost, and sustainability. From premium leather bags to rugged nylon bags, biodegradable jute totes, or highly functional waterproof bags, every material offers unique advantages.

Manufacturers that adopt innovative bag materials and embrace sustainable bag manufacturing practices will be better positioned to meet the evolving demands of global consumers. Companies like Everich Outdoor provide OEM and ODM solutions, helping brands create high-quality, customized bags that align with lifestyle, sustainability, and brand values.

Picture of Lydia Qi

Lydia Qi

I’m Lydia, a Product Marketing Manager at Everich Outdoor Sporting Goods Co., Ltd. I specialize in product positioning, market insights, and strategic content development—helping global outdoor brands understand how high-quality gear is designed, manufactured, and brought to market. With over 25 years of integrated R&D, design, and manufacturing experience, Everich Outdoor provides comprehensive OEM & ODM services across soft coolers, hard coolers, tents, and drinkware. I focus on showcasing our commitment to innovation, durability, functional design, and sustainability, ensuring our partners see not only premium outdoor products but also clear value and long-term brand potential. Backed by a robust global supply chain and three overseas factories in Cambodia and Thailand, Everich Outdoor efficiently overcomes trade barriers and delivers reliable manufacturing solutions to clients worldwide. If you’re interested in collaborating or learning more, feel free to reach out at [email protected].

Table of Contents

Share With

Get in Touch

get in touch