Many vintage military duffle bags are made from canvas. Some are made from leather or have leather fittings. Modern options are typically made from ballistic nylon, but this article will keep to the scope of more traditional materials, namely the former two.
That being the case, here are some of the relative advantages and disadvantages of both canvas and leather military duffle bags.
Advantages of Canvas
Cotton canvas is a relatively lightweight and durable material. Cotton canvas is also remarkably affordable, all things considered.
Despite its low cost, it is extremely durable and wear resistant. Cotton canvas resists abrasion and wear, and is long lasting as a result of its tight weave.
Another great thing about cotton canvas is that it can be treated with wax or other treatments that will render it nearly waterproof. Waxing also binds the fibers, which further increases its abrasion resistance.
Because it is so durable, it lasts a long time, especially if it is properly cared for. This will protect your investment in your bag or pack.
Lastly, canvas offers a classic style and a nice vintage look. If you’re looking for a military duffle bag, vintage canvas is a solid option.
Shortcomings
Overall, canvas offers many more beneficial attributes than disadvantages, but there are still a few things you should keep in mind.
One is that cotton canvas is highly absorbent and if it gets wet, you will need to take active steps to dry it out. At minimum, the bag should be emptied and completely air-dried before it is filled again.
If your canvas pack gets wet and you don’t dry it out, you don’t just run the risk of damaging what’s contained within it, but of mold and mildew growth on the bag itself.
Advantages of Leather
Some other military duffle bags are made with leather or have leather trappings or fittings. Regardless, there are many leather duffle bags, whether they are military in origin or not.
One of the greatest advantages of leather duffle bags is that, like canvas, they are highly durable. This is particularly true of top-grain and full-grain leather, which are much more durable than genuine leather.
This durability doesn’t just protect what you carry in the bag; it also protects the longevity of the bag, and leather, like canvas, will last a long time provided you care for it properly.
Like canvas, leather also offers a distinguished appearance, but unlike canvas, the appearance of leather will improve with age. Top and full-grain leather both develop a patina with age and use as unique as a fingerprint, and which will enhance their aesthetic value.
And of course, leather, like canvas, possesses certain intrinsic, ineffable qualities that make it highly visually attractive. There is a certain class and distinction of refinement that accompanies leather that canvas lacks.
Disadvantages
It’s hard to saddle leather with disadvantages, because they are not inherently shortcomings, only relative. All the same, leather is fairly expensive, which can be unappealing to some users who would prefer the simplicity and low cost of canvas (or even nylon for that matter).
Also, leather will need even more care than canvas. Not only should it be protected against getting wet, but from time to time leather must be conditioned with an appropriate treatment that will keep it supple and prevent it from warping, cracking, or delaminating.
Explore Military Duffle Bags: Vintage and MOLLE Systems
Regardless of what sort of material ultimately appeals to you, you can shop a wide range of military duffle bags, including vintage versions and modern MOLLE packs over at Fatigues Army Navy. Visit their website and get in touch with them for more information.
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