The Technology Behind Inflatable Paddle Boards
What is Drop Stitch Fabric?
Drop stitch, also known as “Double Wall Fabric,” consists of two parallel fabric layers connected by thousands of interlocking threads. These threads hold the two layers apart under high tension, creating a durable and resilient material that enables inflatable structures like paddle boards to maintain a flat and rigid surface when inflated.
However, in traditional knitted drop stitch, the connecting fibers align vertically at a 90° angle to the surface. This limits the material’s ability to withstand bending stress, making it less ideal for high-performance use. Increasing bending stiffness through added thickness or extra fabric layers often compromises the board’s performance by adding unnecessary weight.
How Woven Drop Stitch Technology Improves Performance?
Woven Drop Stitch technology offers a solution with superior performance, creating lighter, stiffer, and stronger boards. Instead of a simple vertical alignment, the woven structure uses threads that cross at varied angles, forming oblique struts. This balanced design enhances rigidity while reducing material use, creating a tighter, more uniform mesh that significantly increases strength and durability.
