M90 “T” vs. M90 “MR”

[M W]

Can anyone explain the difference between M90 MR v3 (whats stocked at Thru-Hiker right now), and M90 T?

I understand the M90 T goes on the inside. Is M90 T softer against the skin?

[Jerry Adams]

MR – mini ripstop – there's a grid of thicker thread that supposedly prevents a rip from continuing

T – Tafeta – surface is smooth with no grid

I wonder if ripstop is really effective. Not that important which one you choose.

[Bob Gross]

"I wonder if ripstop is really effective."

It doesn't seem to hurt. If nothing else, it affects the texture and appearance of the fabric.

–B.G.–

[Jerry Adams]

I think any difference good or bad is small, so it doesn't make much difference

[Richard Nisley]

In March 2011, I tested the "taffeta" versions of the same fabric called Intrepid, TG Intrepid, TH Momentum 90 T, & Quarktex (20d) taffeta by various vendors. The fabric from each vendor tested identical with an air permeability of 4.7 CFM and a HH of 949.04.

In March 2011, I also tested the "multiple ripstop" versions of the same fabric called calendared + DWR TG Intrepid, TH Momentum 90 MR (V2), & Quarktex (20d) mini-ripstop. They tested identical with an air permeability of 4.7 CFM and a HH of 559.6

As a general rule, ripstop fabrics have a very significant increase in abrasion resistance (2-4x) but, less HH than the equivalent weave taffeta versions. The silicone coating knife or calendaring process seems to create a less uniform surface when it encounters the larger diameter ripstop threads as opposed to the uniform surface taffeta.

See submissions 14 and 15 at http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/forums/thread_display.html?forum_thread_id=45026&disable_pagination=1

[Jerry Adams]

Thanks Richard, someone with data rather than just opinion : )

Do you think ripstop works to stop a rip that starts to form? Rip will encounter one of the bigger threads of the rip stop which will then stop the rip from continuing?

[Richard Nisley]

Jerry,

Yes

[M W]

Thanks for the replies – I suppose then the M90 T is nicer against skin.

Although this has been debated elsewhere, is there any practical reason to choose between Pertex Quantum and M90 MR v3? TH has both, but a nice variety of colours in M90 MR, and its $8 cheaper in the kits…

I get the impression that they are in practical, field terms, not that different in their performance. Is this fair?

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