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Snow, slush, below-freezing temps…there’s a lot your truck's interior will see this winter. 

Seat covers will absolutely protect your seat from the elements. We feel two characteristics make a cover specifically good for winter: waterproof and safe with heated seats. We suggest avoiding foam-back covers since those don’t always play nicely with heated seats.

So here are some of our favorite seat covers that meet this criteria.

Pricing is based on 2023 Ford F-150 seats.

Most Color Options: ShearComfort Waterproof CORDURA® Seat Covers

If you’re looking for something that will blend with your interior best, ShearComfort may have it. They have ten options for colors on their custom seat covers.

We’ve reviewed their 1000-Denier seat covers before, but we added these to the list since they’re more affordable. However, these are only made of 500-Denier CORDURA®, so they won’t be as tough as the other options listed here. We love CORDURA®, and these are waterproof and will work with your heated seats.

Price: $405

Fastest Production: Northwest CORDURA® Pro-Gard

Northwest offers 1000-Denier CORDURA® (just like us) which is obviously something we can get down with. Their Pro-Gard covers are waterproof and can take a beating. These seat covers will absolutely protect your seats from snow and sleet, and the material plays nicely with heated seats.

We’re super impressed with Northwest’s 2-4 day turnaround and fast shipping. It’s a little intimidating for us to write about since our non-stock items ship in a little under three weeks, but we’re committed to being honest with you. So there you have it. 

Price: $407

Best Warranty: TigerTough CORDURA® Seat Covers

We may take a little longer to ship out custom products (our in-stock items ship out immediately). But we’re a brand built for blue-collar men and women, so we have a warranty to back that up. We offer an unconditional two-year warranty on our seat covers. No matter how you mess it up, we’ll repair or replace it for you.

Our seat covers are waterproof, will fit your seats like a freaking glove, and are basically indestructible. They work with heated seats and will prevent winter crap from harming your seats. Heck, they’ll even keep your seats safe from a dog covered in slush. 

Price: $297

Best Budget-Friendly Option: Canvasback

Canvasback isn’t a custom fit but a universal one. So it’s not one that’s going to fit your seat like a glove, but it will protect it from winter abuse. They also have quite a few color options to choose from.

Your heated seats should work fine with these, but we couldn’t find any definitive info. 

Either way, these are the lowest price point and a great option if you want to winterize your interior on a budget.

Price: $150 

What to Look For in Seat Covers

When you’re shopping for seat covers to winter-proof your truck’s interior, look for covers that are waterproof, work with heated seats, and have a great warranty that will protect your investment. We also love a cover that’s made in America, but that choice is up to you. 

Considering seat covers for your vehicle's leather seats? It's a decision many drivers think about. Leather is a premium material that demands thoughtful care. The pressing question is whether seat covers help or harm leather seats.

For the most part, no, seat covers won’t ruin your leather seats. 

They're generally seen as a protective layer, guarding against daily wear and tear, spills, and sun damage. However, not every seat cover is suitable for leather. Some may negatively impact the material over time.

Choosing the right type of seat cover is crucial to ensure that you’re enhancing, not hindering, the longevity and appearance of your leather seats. In this article, we'll get into the details, helping you make an informed choice about seat covers for your leather seats.

Understanding Leather Seats and Seat Covers

While those leather seats are pretty sturdy on their own, they can benefit from the extra protection that seat covers bring. It's all about keeping them in prime condition for as long as possible, and that’s a job seat covers do pretty darn well.

Leather Seats – Tough But Tender

Leather’s tough, but let's be real – leather seats aren’t tough as nails. Constant sun exposure, the daily in-and-out, and the odd coffee spill can leave them rough around the edges. Leather's like a sponge for spills and smells, so it needs some TLC to stay sharp.

Seat Covers – Your Leather's Best Bud

Seat covers come in like a reliable sidekick for your leather seats. Think of them as a shield, keeping the bad stuff – UV rays, spills, dirt, grease, dog slobber – off your seats. 

The right seat cover keeps your leather safe from everyday messes and wear while letting it breathe and live its best life. By blocking out the stuff that can age your leather and decrease your resale value, seat covers help keep your seats fresh, clean, and ready for the long haul.

Potential Issues with Foam-Backed Seat Covers

Got leather seats fresh off a conditioning session? Hold off on those foam-backed seat covers like Wet Okole's. Foam and conditioner can clash, potentially harming the seat cover…and your leather. They're at odds; that mix-up can spoil your leather's look and feel. Our advice? If your leather's just been treated, skip the foam-backed options or hold off on installing them for a few days.

Best Practices for Using Seat Covers on Leather

Before you cover those leather seats, make sure they're clean. Dirt or moisture trapped under the cover? That's a recipe for damage. Give your leather a good clean and ensure it's bone dry. 

Choose seat covers that are known to play well with leather. Compatibility isn’t just about size and fit; it’s about ensuring the cover doesn’t chemically react with your leather or cause it to wear prematurely. We suggest using a tough, breathable fabric. 

Seat Covers on Heated Leather Seats

While we’re talking about leather seats and covers, let’s shift gears and talk about heated seats. Does the heat get along with the cover, or is it a no-go?

Typically, it’s safe to use seat covers with heated seats.

Curious about how to use seat covers safely with heated leather seats? Check out our detailed blog post on using seat covers on heated leather seats for all the ins and outs you need to know.

Wrapping it Up

When it comes to decking out your leather seats with covers, the green light is generally on. But it's not just about picking any cover off the shelf. It's about choosing covers that respect the leather’s quality and respond well to its nature. 

They are made from the same base fabric, but ShieldTech is infused with odor and microbe-killing superpowers.

What They're Made Of

Let’s start with what’s the same. They’re both built from 1000-Denier CORDURA because:

👍🏻 Grown, woven, and dyed in the USA (super important)
👍🏻 It’s nearly impossible to tear.
👍🏻 It’s crazy abrasion-resistant. You’ll find versions of Cordura in products from motorcycle clothing to backpacks.

Ironweave Properties

The Ironweave fabric receives a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatment. This treatment allows the fabric to stay breathable, but liquids bead up and run off. 1 point for the covers, 0 points for the spilled coffee.

ShieldTech Properties

ShieldTech doesn’t get the DWR treatment. Its treatment is leveled up and it’s infused with silver and copper ions and waterproof properties.

✅ Waterproof
✅ Anti-Microbial
✅ Anti-Odor

Back to the example from the beginning – if you’re part of a team that shares vehicles, ShieldTech is a great choice. If your vehicle is your own, Ironweave will give you the protection you need without the anti-microbial properties.

Is ShieldTech right for me?

We won't tell you how to leave your life, but ShieldTech is specifically engineered for:

👮‍♂️ Police, Fire, and EMS
👷‍♀️ Blue-collar workers in hot climates
🚚 Delivery drivers
🤹‍♂️Fleets with crew vehicles or hot-seat vehicles

For example: if you are a one-man-band landscaper, Ironweave is a perfect option. It’s going to give you all the protection you need at a slightly lower price.

However, if you are part of a landscaping crew that all piles into the same vehicle at the end of the day when you’re hot, sweaty, and dirty, ShieldTech is going to be the prime choice. It’s going to go to work killing the odors and microbes that come along with the shared vehicle environment. 

ShieldTech is made from the same crazy tough fabric as our Ironweave line of covers, but it’s infused with silver and copper which give it microbe and odor-killing powers.

What Exactly Are ShieldTech Seat Covers?

They’re a germ-killing version of the crazy strong seat covers we already make for work trucks and law enforcement vehicles.

ShieldTech seat covers are made from the same base fabric as all of our seat covers (except Sportweave)  We use 1000-denier CORDURA for the following reasons:

👍 It’s all-American made
👍 It’s highly abrasion resistant
👍 It’s nearly impossible to tear
👍 It’s supple and not scratchy or irritating

While the CORDURA for our Ironweave seat covers gets a custom DWR waterproof treatment, ShieldTech is treated with a different solution. It’s infused with a waterproofing treatment and copper and silver ions in a zeolite carrier are bonded to the fabric, which gives the seat covers anti-odor and antimicrobial properties. 

It is very durable, too – the fabric was washed 20 times before testing (tbh we’ve never heard of anyone washing their covers that many times.)

Who is ShieldTech right for?

ShieldTech is going to be a win for these people looking for heavy-duty seat covers:     

👉 Laborers in hot climates
👉 Police, fire and EMS
👉 Last-mile delivery companies
👉 Dog owners who have their pups in the truck more often than not
👉 Any organization that uses crews/shared vehicles, or hot seating (when the vehicle is passed off from driver to driver)

The Scientific Stuff (how it actually works):

The coating utilizes silver and copper ions (which have been used since 4000 BC to kill bacteria) in a zeolite carrier to starve, sterilize, and suffocate microbes.

A zeolite carrier is a microporous, three-dimensional crystalline solid of aluminum silicate that’s been charged with ions of the active ingredient (silver and copper, in this case) Zeolites are naturally occurring and born of volcanic ash.

The antimicrobial effects are only released when needed in order to have the longest-lasting effects.

Here’s the lab testing results:

Fia is a popular seat cover company we find ourselves compared to, so it was worth an in-person look.

They’re a Canadian company founded over 40 years ago, so they know their stuff and have been in the market far longer than we have.

Fia has a variety of covers, from faux leather to saddle blanket style. We went with the SP80, the most comparable to TigerTough. 

We ordered a 2023 Ford F-150 set to compare them with TigerTough seat covers.

Let’s see how they do.

Watch the video review:

Packaging

Packaging might not be top of mind when you're picking out seat covers, but it's still something we like to cover. It's more than just a box or a bag — it's a reflection of the brand itself.

Fia Packaging

Fia covers arrived in purple branded box, but we noticed that the box doesn’t really match their orange website. Not a big deal. Maybe they’re going through a rebrand, and we got old packaging stock.

Their covers were packaged with a black-and-white generic instruction sheet labeling a three-step installation process.

TigerTough Packaging

When your TigerTough seat covers arrive, they come neatly packaged in a branded poly mailer with full-color instructions tailored to your vehicle's make and model. Say you've got a 2019 Nissan Frontier — you'll receive a set of guidelines crafted precisely for fitting TigerTough covers to your Frontier's seats, ensuring a smooth installation process.

Design, material and fit of the seat cover

Fia Design, Material, and Fit

These covers are made of 100% polyester. But like Shear Comfort, Fia uses different materials for the seat bottoms and sides. The sides and headrest are made of a much thinner, stretchy polyester. This difference in quality can affect the longevity of the seat cover.

Fia doesn’t label the denier of their polyester, so we can’t give details on that.

There’s some decorative stitching on the seat back, which we don’t suggest because it makes the seat cover weaker.

TigerTough Design, Material and Fit

TigerTough seat covers come in three pieces and wrap the entire seat, much like Fia, but we use 1000-Denier CORDURA on the entire seat for consistent quality.

Our covers are made from 1000-Denier CORDURA and are proven to withstand intense abuse. We don’t have any decorative stitching, except for embroidery, but because that’s in an area with minimal wear, it doesn’t weaken the seat cover like decorative stitching.

Installation

Fia Installation

It took us approximately 9 minutes to install a Fia cover. We rated these as fairly easy to install. The instructions weren’t awesome, but we made do.

TigerTough Installation

Installing TigerTough seat covers clocked in at just 9 minutes for a full seat setup too. Granted, we're pretty savvy with our products, so it might take a newcomer a bit longer, but not by much.

We try to go the extra mile by providing detailed instructions and step-by-step installation videos tailored for each specific vehicle model to ensure you get it right the first time.

Here's the lowdown on how TigerTough seat covers fit into place:

• The cover for the seat bottom extends under the entire seat, firmly securing itself with robust hook & loop fasteners.
• Our unique StringLock system encircles the base of the seat bottom, pulling everything snugly together under the seat just like a drawstring, making sure the cover stays put without any slip or slide.

Check out our full installation expectations to learn more.

Headrest

Both seat covers come equipped with headrest protection — a definite plus! Covering the headrest is as essential as the seat itself for full coverage. That said, we noted that Fia's headrest cover is crafted from a thinner fabric. This might not offer the barrier you need on a dusty job site. Instead of acting as a solid shield, Fia's cover might behave more like a filter, allowing finer particles to pass through rather than providing a robust defense.

Seat back

Fia Seat Back

Fia’s seat backs have their heavy-duty polyester on the front and light polyester on the back and side. They do not offer a seatback pocket option or any custom embroidery. 

TigerTough Seat Back

Our seat covers fit snuggly to the back. It’s fits like a glove. If you’d like to add a seatback pocket or custom embroidery, you can do that for an additional fee. 

Seat crease and bottom

Since both seat covers are made from multiple pieces, they both have clean-looking creases that fit the seats well.

They also both tuck into the plastic trim of the seat bottom. We wish Fia had a way to secure the portion that tucks into the plastic trim, though, because this will pull out as you slide in the vehicle.

Fia only has their heavy-duty polyester on the bottom and outside of the seat bottom, though. They use their lighter-weight polyester on the other areas of the seat bottom.

Airbag safety

A bit of a history rundown: Post-2014, virtually all cars come equipped with side airbags, a mandate driven by federal safety regulations. These airbags, often integrated into the seats, have been life-savers even before becoming standard. To put it in perspective, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that from 1996 to 2012, side and curtain airbags saved over 2,000 lives. Back then, only 42% of cars had them – a number that's substantially higher today.

We understand the importance of safety in every vehicle, whether it's your work truck or an entire fleet under your watch.

Fia Airbag Compatibility

There are several ways to do airbag compatibility, but no matter how it’s done, the airbag just needs to be able to deploy in the event of a collision. 

Fia does a flap technique. There’s a cutout covered by a thin fabric flap. We have no doubts that this would function as needed, but the flap is so floppy that we don’t know if it would actually stay tucked into the cutout. 

TigerTough Airbag Compatibility 

Our seat covers are designed with a clear tearaway seam that spans the length of the seat, ensuring they don't hinder airbag deployment during an accident. Tested by independent safety experts, our covers are confirmed to be compatible with airbags. While we hope it never comes to that, you can trust that our seat covers are safety-approved.

Warranty and Returns

Fia Warranty and Returns

Fia offers a limited two-year warranty against manufacturer’s defects under normal use. 

And if you’re not happy with your purchase, you have 30 days to return your Fia products. Pretty fair, we’d say. 

TigerTough Warranty and Returns

Our vehicle seat covers have a two-year, unconditional warranty. If something happens to your TigerTough seat covers, we’ll replace or repair them. How they got damaged doesn’t matter; we’ll happily make it right.

If, for some reason, you don’t like your TigerTough seat covers, we’ll accept returns within 30 days of you receiving them. You just need to be sure they’re in like-new condition still.

Price

Seat covers can range from $50 to hundreds of dollars. For comparison, we used a 2023 Ford F-150 for spec. 

How much does Fia cost?

We ordered a set of their SP87-34 seat covers for $160. This is one of the lowest prices we’ve seen for seat covers.

How much does TigerTough cost?

To fully cover your two front seats with TigerTough, it will cost around $317.

Overview

It all comes down to what you want out of a seat cover and what your budget allows.

There are two things we’d love to see from Fia: a fully-wrapped seat cover that uses the same material all around, and reviews on their website.

If you want something rugged and meant to withstand hard use, like construction equipment or excited farm dogs, we’d encourage you to try TigerTough. You can’t destroy them (and even if you manage to, we’ll replace them in the first two years.)

Maybe after reading this comparison, neither of these brands appeal to you. Then you should definitely check out the best seat covers for work trucks and find something that meets your needs and budget.

CORDURA® sets the standard for fabric durability, known for its unmatched resilience against abrasions, tears, and scuffs. This robust woven fabric is made of nylon material and is favored for high-stakes applications from military gear to adventure equipment. 

It’s the Hercules of fabrics.

CORDURA® seat covers embody this strength, designed to withstand rigorous daily use, unforgiving weather, and incidental spills, ensuring your seats are well-protected for years.

The History of CORDURA®

CORDURA® fabric isn't just durable; it's a legacy in the making. Crafted over half a century ago and trademarked by DuPont, CORDURA® began its journey, toughening up tires and military attire. Fast forward to the 1970s: that’s when CORDURA® really showed its mettle, becoming the fabric of choice for military apparel because of its unparalleled resistance to wear and tear.

It didn’t stop there. CORDURA® broke through military confines, transforming the consumer market with its rugged essence, revolutionizing everything from outdoor equipment to durable luggage. Remember lugging around a Jansport or Eastpak backpack in the 80s or 90s? That was made out of CORDURA®.

Celebrated for its enduring nature and reliability, CORDURA® continues to evolve, meeting the challenges of a world that demands strength and longevity.

What Makes CORDURA® Unique?

When it comes to fabrics that need to endure, CORDURA® stands out from the crowd. But what exactly sets it apart? The answer lies in its composition and the varying deniers it offers.

What is CORDURA® Made Of?

At its core, CORDURA® is a type of nylon made by spinning together fibers of various lengths to create an exceptionally sturdy yarn. However, it's not just any nylon. CORDURA®'s fibers are specially engineered and treated in many steps that enhance their natural durability. The result is a fabric that boasts resistance to abrasions, tears, and scuffs far beyond that of ordinary nylon.

Understanding Denier

Denier refers to the weight of the yarn used in the fabric. Specifically, it indicates the weight in grams of a 9,000-meter length of the yarn. The higher the denier, the thicker, sturdier, and more durable the fabric. This makes the denier a crucial factor when selecting a fabric for specific applications — the right denier for the right job ensures both efficiency and longevity.

The Spectrum of CORDURA® Deniers

CORDURA®'s versatility is reflected in its range of deniers, each suited to different tasks:

• Lightweight Applications (30 to 210 denier): Used for clothing and light bags where flexibility and breathability are needed alongside durability.
• Intermediate Applications (500 denier): Strikes a balance between strength and weight, ideal for more demanding travel gear and backpacks.
• Heavy-Duty Applications (1000 denier and above): The choice for situations where maximum durability is non-negotiable, such as in seat covers for heavy machinery, military gear, and workwear.

Focusing on 1000 Denier for Seat Covers

This high-denier powerhouse doesn't just cover your seats; it armors them. Choosing CORDURA® means choosing unbeatable resilience and a commitment to long-lasting protection, keeping your seats in top form against the toughest challenges.

Key Benefits of CORDURA® for Seat Covers

1. Exceptional Abrasion Resistance: The tightly woven fabric of CORDURA® stands up to continuous rubbing and friction without showing signs of wear. This is particularly crucial for seat covers, which are subject to constant use and movement.
2. Enhanced Longevity: CORDURA® is synonymous with longevity. Seat covers crafted from this material are less likely to need replacement, which means less waste and more savings over time.
3. Adaptability: CORDURA®'s versatility allows it to be treated for additional properties, such as water resistance.

CORDURA® in the Real World

CORDURA®'s reputation for toughness is built on real-world grit—it's the fabric that's been put through its paces in the most grueling conditions imaginable. It's the go-to material for professionals who need performance they can count on, day in and day out, no matter the job site's demands.

CORDURA® Across Industries

Military: In the military, gear failure is not an option. CORDURA® is extensively used to create equipment that soldiers rely on, from bulletproof vests to heavy-duty rucksacks, due to its high tensile strength and exceptional durability.

Outdoor Gear: Adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts turn to CORDURA® for backpacks, camping gear, and apparel that can endure the elements and rugged terrain without faltering.

Workwear: The fabric's resistance to abrasions and tears makes it ideal for workwear in industries like construction and forestry, where clothing and gear face constant abuse.

Caring for Your CORDURA® Seat Covers

Like any other high-performance equipment, CORDURA® seat covers require proper maintenance to ensure they continue functioning at their best. However, taking care of them is not as daunting as one might think. Here are some straightforward tips and dispelled myths to help you maintain your CORDURA® seat covers effectively.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

• Simple soap and water are often enough to clean CORDURA® seat covers. For tougher stains, a soft brush and mild fabric cleaner will do the trick.
• Steer clear of bleach and other abrasive cleaners, as they can degrade the fabric's protective coatings over time.

Choosing the Right CORDURA® Seat Covers for Your Vehicle

Selecting the perfect CORDURA® seat cover for your vehicle doesn't have to be a challenge. With the right information and key points in mind, you can make an informed choice that provides maximum protection and longevity.

• Understanding the make, model, and year of your vehicle is crucial. CORDURA® seat covers come in designs tailored to specific vehicle layouts, ensuring every contour is covered.
• Different deniers of CORDURA® cater to varying degrees of wear. Determine the conditions your vehicle's interior faces and choose a denier that stands up to those challenges.
• Many vehicles have unique features, such as side airbags or integrated seatbelts. Ensure the CORDURA® seat covers you choose accommodate these specifications.
• Full coverage is key. Opt for seat covers that cover the entire seat, reducing the risk of unprotected areas that can accumulate wear.
• Look for additional protective features such as water resistance, UV protection, antimicrobial options, and reinforcement in high-stress areas.

Why does TigerTough use CORDURA®?

By now, you’ve seen how tough it is. We make seat covers for work trucks, semi-trucks, and heavy equipment, so our covers need to be able to stand up to the same harsh conditions as you do.

It’s also made in the U.S., like our seat covers, which is important to us as a company.

“1000 Denier is the perfect blend of strength and workability. It's tough enough to be almost indestructible, but it's still flexible enough to be easy to work with. Any heavier gets stiff, and any lighter loses strength. It's highly customizable. It can be dyed and printed with a range of colors, and we can add a ton of different technologies to it to make it waterproof, antimicrobial, etc.”

Sheldon Zitzmann, Marketing Director

Compare CORDURA vs. Carhartt

Curious to see how CORDURA® seat covers measure up to Carhartt? Take a look at the lab results, where a third-party laboratory independently tests each material. 

Durability isn't just a nice-to-have in a seat cover; it's an essential. Whether you're in the construction business, managing a fleet of delivery vehicles, or just an everyday driver who values the longevity of your truck's interior, the quality of your seat cover material plays an important role in protection. But here's the deal: not all seat covers are created equal. 

So, how do you cut through the marketing jargon and truly measure the toughness of a seat cover?

Well, in our case, we shipped off two seat covers to an independent textile testing lab.

So here’s the in-depth, third-party laboratory comparison between TigerTough's 1000-Denier CORDURA®️ and Carhartt's renowned Cotton Duck. No biases—just raw data.

In this report, we'll lay out the results of tests conducted on these materials, shedding light on their abrasion resistance, puncture resistance, and tear resistance. 

If you don’t want to read this entire report, we’ll just tell you now that TigerTough surpasses Carhartt in all three categories. But if you want the details, by all means, keep reading.

Testing isn’t the most exciting thing, and we could get hyper-nerdy about this, but we hope that by the end, you'll have a clearer picture of which material stands tall when faced with the daily wear and tear of rugged use.

The Importance of Third-Party Testing

Here's why third-party testing is an indispensable part of the product development and marketing process:

• Objective Assessment
• Credibility Boost 
• Consistent Standards
• Unbiased Feedback
• Leveling the Playing Field

We've already compared Carhartt vs. TigerTough side-by-side, but we wanted to see which one would be more durable. Since we don't have that kind of equipment, we worked with an independent lab.

The Lab of Choice: TexTest

TexTest stands as a pinnacle in fabric testing, with over 30 years of distinguished experience. Recognized for assisting brands in certifying product specifications, TexTest ensures compliance with government regulations and adherence to elite industry standards.

Their credibility is fortified by an ISO 9001 quality management system, guaranteeing consistent and accurate results. This rigorous standardization accelerates the market entry for businesses, relying on TexTest's dependable evaluations.

Furthermore, TexTest's comprehensive array of advanced lab equipment offers an expansive suite of testing services. Their commitment to innovation is evident through active memberships in ASTM, AATCC, AFMA, and IFAI, ensuring they remain at the vanguard of testing methodologies.

Not only are they ANAB accredited, but they're also an officially approved testing lab. That's the expertise and assurance needed for an independent testing facility.

Materials Under Test

The material used in seat covers is pivotal in determining longevity, durability, and overall performance. 

TigerTough 1000-Denier CORDURA®️ (Black)

Derived from a blend of nylon and other synthetic fibers, CORDURA®️ is renowned for its resilience and durability. The term "1000-Denier" refers to the fabric's density, with "denier" as a fiber thickness measurement unit. A higher denier indicates a thicker, more robust fabric.

Carhartt Cotton Duck (Brown)

"Duck" in fabric terminology refers to a heavy, plain-woven cotton fabric. The term "duck" comes from the Dutch word for cloth, "doek." Carhartt's variant, known for its ruggedness, is unapologetically sturdy and has been a staple in workwear for decades.

The Testing Parameters

When assessing the quality and durability of fabric materials, especially those designed for rugged use like seat covers, there are specific benchmarks and tests that experts rely on. These tests are designed to simulate the kind of wear and tear these materials might face in real-world conditions. For our evaluation of CORDURA®️ and Carhartt Cotton Duck, we focused on three main testing parameters:

1. Wyzenbeek Abrasion Test (ASTM D4157): This test evaluates how well a fabric can resist wear from repeated rubbing. Think of it as simulating the repeated action of sliding in and out of a seat or the consistent contact of a seatbelt against the material.

2. Puncture Resistance (ASTM D751 Flat Tip Probe): Here, we gauge how the material stands up against punctures from sharp objects. This is vital for those unexpected moments when a sharp tool or object ends up on the seat.

3. Tear Resistance (Trapezoid Method ASTM D 4533): This test determines the material's ability to resist tearing, especially critical for situations where there's a strain on the fabric, such as when something gets caught on it.

But before we dive deeper into these tests, let's clarify two terms we'll reference quite a bit: 'warp' and 'filling.'

Warp Yarns: These yarns run lengthwise in a fabric parallel to the edge. They are typically more robust and tightly wound than filling yarns.

Filling Yarns (or Weft Yarns): These yarns run perpendicular to the warp, going across the width of the fabric. They interlace with the warp yarns to form the fabric's structure.

Understanding these terms isn't necessary, but these influence the fabric's strength and durability in different directions.

Wyzenbeek Abrasion Test (ASTM D4157)

In the fabric industry, one of the most trusted methods to measure a material's resistance to wear and tear is the Wyzenbeek Abrasion Test. 

The Wyzenbeek Test simulates the action of everyday wear and tear on fabrics. A piece of the fabric is stretched over a frame, and then a specific kind of abrasive, such as a wire screen or a standardized piece of cotton duck, is rubbed against it. The number of cycles, or double rubs, it takes for the fabric to show noticeable wear or breakdown provides a measurable and consistent standard of durability. The more cycles a fabric can withstand before showing wear, the more durable it is.

TigerTough Results

Warp: 1,700,000+ cycles before wear
Filling: 1,700,000+ cycles before wear

Carhartt Results

Warp: 1,670,000 cycles before wearing completely through
Filling: 1,670,000 cycles before wearing completely through

Comparative Analysis

While both materials showcased exceptional durability, the TigerTough 1000-Denier CORDURA®️ demonstrated a particularly impressive performance. Remarkably, it maxed out the test at 1,700,000 cycles in warp and filling directions. This means that the test's limit was reached, so we don't even know how much further TigerTough could have gone.

Carhartt Cotton Duck, on the other hand, exhibited strong durability, reaching 1,670,000 cycles in both testing directions. While commendable, the distinction is clear: TigerTough's CORDURA®️ not only surpassed Carhartt but showcased the potential for even greater resilience that couldn't be quantified in this test, suggesting it provides an even longer-lasting seat cover in real-world scenarios.

Puncture Resistance (ASTM D751 Flat Tip Probe)

Puncture resistance is a crucial parameter when considering the strength and longevity of fabrics, especially in contexts where they may be exposed to sharp objects or sudden impacts. It's the measure of a fabric's ability to withstand penetration, a key determinant in its ability to protect underlying surfaces and, by extension, maintain its integrity over time. Whether it's for seat covers exposed to tools, equipment, or any accidental contact with sharp items, this test provides a snapshot of how well a fabric might hold up against potential damage.

Puncture resistance is necessary. A seat cover might look great and feel comfortable, but its utility is greatly diminished if it easily gives way to things like a screwdriver or dog claws.

TigerTough Results

The results varied depending on the direction of the probe, with scores of 120, 114, and 136, resulting in an average of 120 lbf.

Carhartt Results 

The Carhartt fabric tested at 48, 40, and 36 in different directions, averaging 41 lbf.

Comparative Analysis

TigerTough's 1000-Denier CORDURA®️ exhibited an outstanding performance in the puncture resistance test. On average, TigerTough was approximately 193% stronger than Carhartt. This substantial difference underscores TigerTough's enhanced ability to withstand punctures, providing superior seat protection. Carhartt's performance, while still commendable, was significantly outshined by TigerTough in this regard, highlighting the enhanced protective qualities the latter offers.

Tear Resistance (Trapezoid Method ASTM D 4533)

Tear resistance is one of the essential indicators of fabric durability, especially when subjected to rigorous use. Tear resistance gauges a fabric’s capacity to prevent a small rip or cut from becoming a gaping wound in your seat cover.

Significance in Industrial and Rugged Environments

In industrial or rugged environments, fabrics often encounter various stresses, from snagging on equipment to being caught between sharp or heavy objects. A seat cover's integrity isn't just about withstanding the initial damage but also ensuring that minor damage doesn't escalate into major, irreparable harm. A high tear resistance means that even if the fabric does get nicked or slightly cut, the damage is localized and doesn't spread, thereby maintaining the overall integrity of the seat cover.

TigerTough Results

Warp: The fabric exhibited a tear strength of 103 lbs.
Filling: Recorded a tear strength of 96 lbs.

Carhartt Results

Warp: Demonstrated a tear strength of 20 lbs.
Filling: Registered a tear strength of 20 lbs.

Comparative Analysis

The numbers speak for themselves. TigerTough's 1000-Denier CORDURA®️ exhibits remarkable tear resistance, significantly outperforming the Carhartt Cotton Duck. Depending on the direction of the tear, TigerTough's fabric is between 380% to 415% more resilient in tear strength than Carhartt's.

Summary of Results

Wyzenbeek Abrasion Test (ASTM D4157):

TigerTough: Reached over 1,700,000 cycles, which is the test's maximum limit, implying its true potential remains undetermined.

Carhartt: Scored 1,670,000 cycles.

Statistical Insight: Despite the numbers being close, it's important to highlight that TigerTough's fabric hit the test's ceiling, hinting at even greater durability. On the other hand, Carhartt's fabric, while commendable, did not max out the test. This can translate to noticeable differences in fabric longevity and wear in real-world scenarios.

Puncture Resistance (ASTM D751 Flat Tip Probe)

TigerTough: Registered a puncture strength of 120 lbf.

Carhartt: Recorded 41 lbf.

TigerTough's fabric showcased a puncture resistance 193% stronger than Carhartt's. This means a significantly better defense against accidental stabs from tools, sharp objects, excited dogs, or other potential hazards.

Tear Resistance (Trapezoid Method ASTM D 4533)

TigerTough: In the warp direction, the strength was 103 lbs, and 96 lbs in the filling direction.

Carhartt: Tear strengths stood at 20 lbs for warp and 20 lbs for filling.

Statistical Insight: TigerTough's fabric is between 380% to 415% stronger in terms of tear resistance than Carhartt's, depending on the tear direction. This difference can mean a minor fabric stretch and a full-blown tear for industries or scenarios with rugged use.

Overall Analytical Impression

All data shows that TigerTough's 1000-Denier CORDURA®️ as the superior fabric in every metric tested. 

Every percentage point of difference could signify additional weeks or even months of product life, fewer replacements, increased savings, and an overall enhanced user experience. In a world where durability and functionality are paramount, these test results offer clear guidance on which fabric stands out as the better choice.

Whether you choose TigerTough or another seat cover brand, we want you to be fully equipped with the information so that you can make the best investment for your vehicle.