Nylon Webbing for Recovery Straps, Slings, and Heavy-Duty Builds
Nylon webbing is the strap material to choose when a job involves shock, sudden pulls, or a load that needs a little give. Unlike polyester, nylon stretches under tension and then recovers, which is why it is widely used to make recovery straps and web slings. Our nylon webbing comes in yellow, in 300' rolls, from 1" to 12" wide, with Made in USA designations on the listings.
Because it comes in such a wide range of widths, nylon webbing also suits large custom assemblies where you need a heavy-duty strap and want to control the size, length, and hardware yourself.
Choose a Width and Grade
Break strength rises with width. In our listings, standard-grade rolls work out to 9,800 lbs. of break strength per inch of width, and economy-grade rolls work out to 7,000 lbs. per inch.
| Width |
Economy grade |
Standard grade |
| 1" |
7,000 lbs. |
9,800 lbs. |
| 1-1/2" |
Not offered |
14,700 lbs. |
| 1-3/4" |
12,250 lbs. |
Not offered |
| 2" |
14,000 lbs. |
19,600 lbs. |
| 3" |
21,000 lbs. |
29,400 lbs. |
| 4" |
28,000 lbs. |
39,200 lbs. |
Every roll is 300' long and yellow.
Treat these as failure points, not working loads
Each figure above is a point at which brand-new webbing is expected to give out. None of them is a safe working load. The working load limit of anything you build depends on the hardware, how the ends are terminated, how the strap is rigged, and the manufacturer's rating. Heavy-duty jobs call for careful rating, so check manufacturer guidance and any DOT, jobsite, or industry requirements first.
When Nylon Is the Right Choice
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Recovery and snatch straps: the stretch cushions the pull when a vehicle is stuck in mud, sand, or snow.
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Sling fabrication: nylon is a common material for web slings, which a qualified manufacturer builds and rates.
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Heavy custom straps: the 5" to 12" rolls cover large, high-capacity builds that standard straps do not reach.
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Shock-prone setups: anywhere a sudden jolt is expected and the load is not supposed to stay rigid.
When to pick something else
If you want cargo to stay snug and not shift, polyester is usually the better material because it stretches less. See polyester cargo webbing for tie down builds, or seat belt style webbing for lighter projects.
Nylon vs. Polyester in Short
| Factor |
Nylon |
Polyester |
| Stretch |
Higher, recovers after loading |
Lower |
| Shock handling |
Absorbs sudden force |
Holds loads firmly |
| Water |
Takes on more moisture |
Takes on very little |
| Typical use |
Recovery straps, slings |
Tie downs, cargo straps |
Nylon can also be affected by harsh chemicals such as bleach and strong acids, so keep it away from them.
Finished Products if You Do Not Want to Build
Webbing sold by the roll is raw material. It is not a finished, rated sling or recovery strap. If you need one that comes ready to use, browse:
The full lifting slings category lists everything in one place, and the webbing category covers every material we carry.
Handling and Inspection
- Inspect new and used webbing for cuts, abrasion, burns, and chemical or heat damage before use.
- Pad sharp corners and edges where the webbing bends under load.
- Remove damaged webbing from service.
- Wide rolls are heavy, so plan how you will store and move them.
- Keep it away from heat sources and harsh chemicals.
Nylon Webbing FAQs
What widths does nylon webbing come in?
1", 1-1/2", 1-3/4", 2", 3", 4", 5", 6", 8", 10", and 12". All are sold in 300' rolls.
What is the difference between economy and standard grade?
Economy rolls have a lower break strength for the same width. For example, the 2" economy roll is rated at 14,000 lbs. and the 2" standard roll at 19,600 lbs. Compare the ratings in each listing.
Does nylon webbing come in other colors?
The nylon webbing on this collection is yellow.
Is nylon or polyester better for tie downs?
Polyester is generally the better fit for holding loads still because it stretches less. Nylon suits jobs where shock absorption helps.
Is this webbing a lifting sling?
No. It is the material slings are made from. A sling you intend to lift with has to come from a qualified manufacturer with a rating attached, so look at our nylon lifting slings for a ready-to-use option.
Need Help Choosing?
Matching a width and grade to a sling build or recovery application? Talk it through with our team before you place the order.
