Webbing

Webbing is a category of strong woven fabric designed to form load-bearing straps, ties, and supports. It is typically produced as flat webbing or tubular webbing. Common base fibers include nylon (polyamide), polyester, and polypropylene, chosen for strength, durability, abrasion resistance, and moisture handling. Flat webbing presents as a single-layer strap, while tubular webbing is knit and formed into a seamless hollow tube used for slings and harnesses. Widths commonly range from about 10 mm to 50 mm, with larger widths used for automotive safety belts and smaller widths for climbing slings and gear straps.

Webbing is made by weaving yarns into a continuous strip, with edges finished to prevent fraying. Tubular webbing can be produced by circular knitting or by weaving and sealing to create a hollow tube. After weaving, processes such as heat-setting or chemical finishing enhance dimensional stability and weather resistance. Applications include automotive seat belts, military and rescue harnesses, backpacks and luggage straps, dog collars and leashes, load-securement straps, and climbing or rescue equipment. The material offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, good abrasion resistance, and flexibility, though it can be sensitive to UV exposure and heat over time.

Biology and related uses: the term webbing can describe interdigital skin between digits, seen in some aquatic animals and in certain developmental conditions in humans (syn­dactyly). In zoology and evolution, changes in the degree of webbing reflect adaptations to aquatic or terrestrial locomotion. In everyday use, webbing also refers to the flat or tubular straps and fasteners widely employed in clothing, gear, and safety equipment.