What Is Webbing? Woven Tape Explained
What webbing is, the materials and weaves we run, and how to specify it for bags, straps and pet gear.
Webbing is a flat, narrow woven fabric commonly used for straps, handles, collars, belts and technical textile applications. It is typically made from polyester, nylon, polypropylene or cotton. Depending on its construction, webbing can be designed for decorative, general-purpose or load-bearing applications. Strength, stretch and load-bearing performance depend on the specific construction and should be evaluated using product-specific specifications or test data.
We manufacture woven webbing and narrow woven tapes in Istanbul and have done so since 1996. The terms “webbing” and “woven tape” can overlap, but they are not always interchangeable: woven tape is a broader category, while webbing generally refers to a stronger narrow woven fabric used for strap, accessory and technical applications. Load-bearing suitability depends on the specific construction and tested performance. Tekiş webbing products are produced under OEKO-TEX Standard 100.
What is webbing?
Webbing is a flat, narrow woven fabric designed to provide strength and dimensional stability. Its performance depends on factors such as fibre type, yarn specification, weave construction, width, thickness and finishing.
Depending on these variables, webbing may be used for decorative straps, general textile applications or applications requiring defined mechanical performance. Load-bearing capability should therefore be determined from the specification and test data of the particular webbing rather than from the term “webbing” alone.
| Tape | Stretch behaviour | Typical material | Common uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Webbing | Usually low stretch; depends on construction | Polyester, nylon, PP | Straps, handles, collars, belts, technical applications |
| Elastic | Designed to stretch and recover | Textile yarns + elastomeric component | Fit, gathers, waistbands |
| Ribbon | Usually low/non-stretch | Varies by construction | Trim, finishing, decoration, branding |
What is webbing made of?
Most webbing is woven from polyester (UV-stable, low stretch, the all-round default), nylon (the strongest and most abrasion-resistant, but absorbs water), polypropylene (light, low-cost, floats, weaker in UV) or cotton (soft and natural, lower strength). The right fibre depends on load, environment and feel — we cover the trade-offs in detail in our Webbing Materials guide.
What is webbing used for?
- Bags & luggage — backpack straps, handles, cargo tie-downs.
- Pet gear — collars and leashes (see choosing dog collar webbing).
- Apparel & belts — belts, overalls, technical garments.
- Outdoor & industrial — harnesses, slings, lifting and load applications.
How is webbing specified?
Webbing specifications can include width, fibre material, weave construction, thickness or weight, colour, finishing and branding requirements. For applications where mechanical performance is important, tested breaking strength or other relevant performance criteria should also be specified. These values are product-specific and depend on the selected construction. Tekiş can develop different widths, colours and branded constructions according to the application and production requirements.
For current webbing product families and available specifications, view our Woven Webbing & Strap range.