1. What Is a Fabric Coating?

Fabric coating is a finishing process in which a thin protective layer is applied to the surface of a textile. The coating enhances the performance of the fabric, improving characteristics such as waterproof ability, durability, elasticity, flame resistance, and chemical protection.

Modern technical textiles rely heavily on coatings for applications in outdoor equipment, aviation, military, industrial workwear, medical products, and fashion.

2. PU Coating (Polyurethane Coating)

What It Is

PU coating is a lightweight polyurethane layer applied to polyester or nylon fabrics. It gives the fabric a smooth, flexible surface while preserving breathability.

Key Features

• Lightweight and soft hand feel

• Good waterproof and windproof performance

• Breathable

• Cost-effective

Common Applications

• Jackets and outdoor apparel

• Lightweight tents

• Backpacks

• Umbrellas

Recommended Product:
👉 300D Cationic Oxford Fabric With PU Coating

3. PVC Coating (Polyvinyl Chloride Coating)

What It Is

PVC coating forms a thick, durable layer that makes fabrics extremely strong and abrasion-resistant. It is less breathable but very tough.

Key Features

• Excellent durability

• High waterproof rating

• Strong chemical resistance

• Slight rigidity compared to PU

Common Applications

• Tarpaulins and truck covers

• Industrial protective fabrics

• Outdoor awnings

• Luggage and heavy-duty bags

Recommended Product:
👉 600D Oxford Fabric With PVC Coating

4. TPU Coating (Thermoplastic Polyurethane Coating)

What It Is

TPU coating is a premium option offering elasticity, resilience, and superior low-temperature performance. It is also eco-friendlier compared to PVC.

Key Features

• Excellent elasticity

• High abrasion resistance

• Strong waterproof ability

• Better cold resistance than PU and PVC

• Environmentally safer

Common Applications

• High-performance outdoor gear

• Medical inflatables

• Air mattresses

• Sports equipment

• Technical industrial textiles

Recommended Product:
👉 1680D Oxford Fabric With TPU Coating

5. Flame-Retardant (FR) Coating

What It Is

An FR coating reduces or slows the fabric's flammability by creating a protective barrier that inhibits ignition.

Key Features

• Meets industrial fire-safety standards (NFPA, EN, etc.)

• Helps prevent flame spread

• Suitable for high-risk working environments

Common Applications

• Workwear and uniforms

• Military and aviation textiles

• Protective equipment

• Curtains and public-area fabrics

Recommended Product:
👉 1000D Flame-Retardant Nylon Cordura Fabric

6. Low-Temperature Resistant Coating

What It Is

Low-temperature coatings maintain flexibility and performance in extreme cold, commonly down to –20°C / –40°C or even lower depending on formulation.

Key Features

• Prevents cracking in cold weather

• Maintains elasticity and durability

• Often used with TPU and special PU formulas

Common Applications

• Winter sports equipment

• Arctic outdoor gear

• Cold-storage logistics textiles

• Inflatable rescue gear

Recommended Product:
👉 600D Oxford Fabric With PU Coating

7. How to Choose the Right Coating

8. Application Comparison Table

9. Conclusion

Fabric coatings play a critical role in enhancing performance for modern technical textiles. Whether your priority is waterproofing, fire resistance, durability, or cold-weather performance, choosing the right coating ensures safer, stronger, and longer-lasting products.
For brands targeting the European and American markets—where outdoor, industrial, and functional apparel are in high demand—understanding these coatings is essential for product development and sourcing.

10. Recommended Products

Below you can insert direct product links from your website:

• PU-Coated Polyester Fabric: 300D Cationic Oxford Fabric With PU Coating

• PVC-Coated Polyester Fabric: 600D Oxford Fabric With PVC Coating

• TPU-Coated Technical Fabric: 1680D Oxford Fabric With TPU Coating

• Flame-Retardant Coated Fabric: 1000D Flame-Retardant Nylon Cordura Fabric

• Low-Temperature Resistant Fabric: 600D Oxford Fabric With PU Coating