Nylon vs polyester flag, which is the better?

When it comes to flags, the material matters, but don't overlook the challenges posed by wind, UV rays, temperature, and humidity. Simply considering the material isn't enough when you're buying flags.

In this blog, we'll share some climate-based flag selection tips to help you make the best choice between nylon and polyester flags.

1.The Wind Factor

    We all love to see flags waving in the wind, so wind is a top priority.
    Nylon flags are lightweight and soft, only 70-80% the weight of similar polyester flags, making them great for light breezes. However, they're not as tough as polyester flags and can tear more easily in strong winds, especial the Sewn Stripes US flags.

    Notice: the map shows the average annual wind speeds at 30 meters (about 100 feet), while wind speed at the top of a typical 15-30 foot residential flagpole is just one-half of that.

    Based on wind strength, here are some tips:

    • Green zones: Most of the year is suitable for nylon flags.
    • Yellow and gold zones: Polyester flags are the best.
    • Orange and purple zones: Opt for 2-ply polyester flags. They are heavier, but the strong winds here will keep them flying. Nylon flags? Not recommended at all—they might not survive in this area.

    Remember, terrain and buildings can really change local wind conditions, so consider the actual wind strength where your flagpole is.

    2.The Effects of UV Rays and Humidity

    UV intensity
    First, nylon doesn't hold up well against UV rays, so intense sunlight can wear out and fade nylon flags faster.
    Second, nylon tends to build up static electricity, especially in dry air, which can make the fabric brittle quickly.

    So, in the summer desert sun of the western regions, nylon flags might not last as long as you'd hope. Here we recommend polyester flags with a lower denier count. They're also easy to fly in breezes, durable, and budget-friendly. While they might not match the deluxe of nylon. they beat the hassle of dealing with torn flags.

    Humidity

    Nylon is more absorbent than polyester. In a rainy season that goes on for weeks, nylon flags will stay wet for a long time, get heavier, and the fibers will stretch out. This makes the fabric less elastic and cuts down on its lifespan. About this, we've seen loads of complaints from folks using nylon flags down in the Gulf of Mexico.

    3.Sum up our personalized options for flags & climate.

    *The flags mean sewn stripes flag*.

    Different flag combos for Different weather：

    • Mild and humid areas east of the Rockies:

    This area has four distinct seasons, and for most of the year, it’s either calm or just a light breeze. But in the summer and winter, there can be some extreme weather that can damage flags. A nylon flag probably won’t hold up for a whole year, so we recommend having two flags ready in this area- Nylon + Polyester flag. By hanging the right flag according to the season and weather, you can easily get over two years of use out of them.

    In mild spring and fall with gentle winds, use nylon flags;

    Switch to polyester flags in the summer and winter, especially during extreme weather like strong winds, high temperatures, or heavy rain.

    • Dry and less windy areas west of the Rockies:

    Use polyester flags; switch to nylon in winter when UV is weaker.

    • Desert:

    Polyester flags only. lower denier polyester flags are the best.

    • Rain belt of the Gulf of Mexico and West Coast:

    Use polyester flags year-round. Constant rain, high humidity, and year-round sea breezes can really damage nylon flags

    • Flags for sailing:

    2-ply polyester flags only. The boat's speed combined with the sea breeze, the flag's gonna face at least a fresh gale. Only 2-ply polyester flag can take that kind of beating.

    While this blog highlights some drawbacks of nylon flags, they remain the most popular choice in the U.S., with sales on Amazon being twice that of polyester flags. This popularity is attributed to their soft texture, elegant fluttering, and vibrant colors, making them ideal for low-wind environments.

    However, nylon flags receive slightly lower ratings compared to polyester flags, primarily due to their tendency to tear easily. Our analysis of 207,000 reviews for Sewn Stripe flags on Amazon shows that 4.6% of nylon flags received one-star ratings, compared to 3.6% for polyester flags.

    Weather conditions play a significant role in the performance and longevity of nylon flags.

    Nylon or polyester flag, Do you know how to choose now?  

    For premium American flag services, please visit our Sewn Stripes Flag & Climate Solutions for more information.  

    Thank you for your interest, and feel free to contact us with any further inquiries.