Virtues of polypropylene webbing versus nylon webbing:  

Polypro feels soft, Nylon feels abrasive

I use polypropylene (polypro) webbing for my leashes and collars because while it is strong and durable, it also feels better!  Polypro is soft to touch whereas nylon is abrasive feeling.  This is important for your dog because you do not want the collar to rub into their coat/ skin.  This is also important for you holding the leash - softer on your hands. 

Polypro is water resistant, Nylon stretches when wet...

What you need to know about H20!  If you ever plan to wash your leash and collar or let your dog go for a swim or plan to go for a walk with your dog to a river, or the ocean or for a walk in the rain, you may want to make sure your leash is made of polypro webbing.  The polypro I use washes up very nicely and dries like new!  Nylon, on the other hand, absorbs water and will stretch when it is wet...once nylon is wet it looses its shape.   Leashes made of nylon webbing will stretch, warp and twist out of shape after they get wet.  Polypro is water resistant, washes up easy and dries quickly.

Strength of nylon versus polypro

How much strength do you need from your dog collar and leash webbing? Like a chain, a leash or collar is only as strong as its weakest point, so I use 600lbs and 800 lbs test poly pro depending on the size of the dog - note for dog bigger than teacups: I also double the webbing on the collar so it is actually 1200 lbs strength. All welded d-rings -- with heavy duty 0.19" wire (lighter gauge for smaller dogs, thicker for bigger dogs) and I also quadruple stitch and square cross all connecting points...plus I use durable plastic quick release clips.

Tubular Nylon is useful for leashes that have tugs on them or when webbing is used for tug toys.  I use tubular nylon for these items, so the dog's teeth do not shred the webbing and because  tubular nylon is smoother than usual nylon and stretches very little. 

Leashes and collars for dogs are generally made of polypro because it is :

• durable,

• washable,

• bouyant, &

• nice to the touch.

PLUS: The webbing I use has not been treated with added chemicals which can irritate skin and break hair.  Also if you want added comfort for your dog I add fleece lining or cuddle the webbing in fleece all around.  Fleece is easy to clean up with hand washing and hang to dry. Or for summer time I  have some nice cotton fabric choices or satin for those fancy dogs out there!

Cheers, Bella's Mum

Agility Q store - LET YOUR DOG MAKE A STATEMENT