Ultralight Two-Tone Nylon Fabric (400T) – CC-1698

Ultralight 400T Two-Tone Nylon Fabric – CC-1698

Ultralight two-tone nylon fabric CC-1698 brings colour movement to a shell weighing only 36 GSM. From one angle, the surface may look calm and almost monochromatic; as the light or garment position changes, a second tone becomes more noticeable. This shifting appearance allows designers to create visual interest without adding prints, heavy textures or decorative coatings.

Made from 100% nylon, CC-1698 uses fine 20D × 20D yarns in a compact 400T plain-weave construction. Its low weight makes it especially relevant to packable windbreakers, running shells and lightweight outdoor garments where portability is part of the product design. A water-repellent finish helps protect the surface during brief exposure to drizzle and splashes.

Colour Depth Without Added Weight

The two-tone effect gives a simple jacket more personality while keeping the surface clean. Depending on the selected colour combination, the difference between the two tones can be subtle or more visible.

Dark combinations can create a deeper technical appearance, while softer tonal pairings may suit urban, travel and fashion-oriented collections. Because the effect changes with light and viewing direction, colour approval should be carried out using a larger cutting rather than a small swatch alone.

For buyers looking for a 400T ultralight two-tone nylon fabric for packable jackets, CC-1698 offers an alternative to conventional single-colour shell fabrics. The visual interest comes from the fabric itself, allowing the garment pattern and details to remain relatively simple.

What 20D and 36 GSM Mean for Garment Design

The fine 20D × 20D yarn construction keeps CC-1698 extremely light. At 36 GSM, the fabric can fold into a small volume and adds minimal weight to garments designed for travel, running or emergency weather protection.

This 20D water-repellent nylon fabric for running windbreakers may be considered for:

• Ultralight windbreakers
• Packable running and cycling shells
• Travel jackets
• Lightweight outdoor layers
• Fashion sportswear
• Hoods and contrast panels
• Compact storage pouches
• Selected garment linings

Light weight also requires careful garment engineering. Needle size, thread selection and stitch density can influence seam strength, puckering and needle marks. Areas exposed to repeated abrasion may need reinforcement or a heavier companion fabric.

Understanding the 400T Construction

The 400T specification identifies CC-1698 as a fine, compact woven fabric. Its plain weave creates an even surface without a visible ripstop grid, allowing the two-tone colour effect to remain the main visual feature.

However, thread-count terminology does not by itself confirm wind resistance, tear strength or air permeability. Buyers evaluating a high-density 20D nylon shell for ultralight outdoor clothing should define the required test standards according to the final application.

Recommended evaluations may include fabric weight, tensile strength, tear strength, seam slippage, air permeability, colour fastness and dimensional stability. Pale shades should also be checked for opacity, particularly when the fabric will be worn over contrasting garments.

Water Repellency for Brief Weather Protection

The W/R treatment helps light moisture bead on the outer surface rather than being absorbed immediately. This makes CC-1698 useful for compact outer layers carried in preparation for changing weather.

W/R means water-repellent, not waterproof. The supplied specification does not include a confirmed hydrostatic-pressure rating, coating or membrane. Water may also enter through unsealed seams during prolonged exposure.

If waterproof performance is required, an appropriate coating or lamination must be developed and tested separately. A PFAS-free C0 water-repellent option can be discussed according to the project, with the required initial grade and wash durability confirmed before production.

Cutting Direction Matters with Two-Tone Fabric

When working with ultralight two-tone nylon fabric, garment-panel direction deserves special attention. Pieces cut in opposite directions may reflect light differently, even when they come from the same production lot.

Before bulk cutting, we recommend confirming:

• Correct face and cutting direction
• Two-tone appearance under different lighting
• Panel-to-panel colour consistency
• Opacity in the selected shade
• Fabric noise during movement
• Seam puckering and needle selection
• Tear strength for the intended application
• Water-repellent performance
• Finished weight and usable width

Custom colour combinations and hand-feel requirements can be reviewed during sampling. Visit our fabric news and development page for sourcing insights, or follow CC Textile on TikTok for short videos showing fabric surfaces and colour effects in motion.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is CC-1698 different from CC-2190?
CC-1698 uses finer 20D yarns and weighs 36 GSM, making it considerably lighter than the 40D, 80 GSM CC-2190. It is better suited to ultralight and highly packable applications.

Does the 400T construction make the fabric waterproof?
No. A compact construction and W/R finish can support light weather protection, but waterproof performance requires a suitable coating or membrane and confirmed testing.

Can this fabric be used for down garments?
It may be evaluated for selected insulated products, but no calendered downproof finish has been specified. Filling migration must be tested with the intended insulation, needle and seam construction.

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