Hiking Tips: Tyvek for a Durable and Lightweight DIY “Fabric”

Tyvek

For backpackers who like to shed pounds and ounces from the load that they carry, there is no better news than that of a material that is both light in weight and durable. Tyvek® is one such material. You have undoubtedly seen it in the form of a strong envelope that you received in the mail or as a wrapping for newly-constructed houses.

This super material, in addition to being lightweight and durable, is also windproof, waterproof and breathable. It is resistant to punctures, abrasions and tears.

One feature of Tyvek®, water resistance, is good for both the construction industry and for backpacking. That’s the purpose of wrapping new frame houses with this material: creating a barrier against moisture.

Another feature that interests hikers and backpackers is its lightness in weight.

The burgeoning ultralight backpacking movement has taken to this material like a duck takes to water. Here are some things they like to make with this “fabric”.

1. Ground cloth,

2. Doormat for the entrance to your tent;

3. Vestibule for a bivy sack;

4. Lightweight tarp;

5. DIY lightweight backpack.

Yes, you can sew up a backpack with this interesting material. Check out this website for photos of a really neat backpack made with Tyvek®.

You can buy Tyvek® in a relatively small quantity at a building supply depot such as Lowe’s or Home Depot. It is also available online. I even found it for sale on eBay.

One relatively disagreeable feature of Tyvek® is that it is noisy in a breeze. You can soften it and thus diminish the noise by washing it in a large commercial washer without detergent. Remember – don’t add detergent, only water.

So, get yourself a role of Tyvek® and see what kinds of lightweight hiking and backpacking gear you can make out of it. Like I said, it’s durable and light.

by Richard Davidian, Ph.D.

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