ripSMART | Ripstop Canvas
Ripstop Canvas – 300 / 400 / 500gsm
South African fabricators rely on ripSMART for bakkie covers, awnings, safari tents, and industrial applications – 300, 400, and 500gsm, in stock from Midrand.
What is Ripstop Canvas South Africa?
ripSMART Ripstop is an acrylic-coated woven polyester canvas engineered to perform in the harshest African outdoor conditions.
Available in 300, 400, and 500gsm weights, ripSMART Ripstop gives specifiers and fabricators the right weight for the right application – from lightweight event canopies to heavy-duty permanent awnings and industrial covers.
Two types of buyer. One supplier.
Whether you need a few metres for a personal project or full rolls for production, we supply both. Cut lengths have no minimum order quantity.
Need fabric for a specific project?
Whether you’re making a cover, repairing a tent, building a bag, or working on a custom application, we’ll help you choose the right ripstop canvas. If you need 4 metres, that’s what you buy.
- Cut lengths available by the linear metre
- Tell us your project and we will recommend the right GSM
- Collect from Midrand or nationwide delivery
- Pay via EFT – simple and straightforward
Need consistent supply for production?
We work with fabricators, manufacturers, retailers, and resellers who require reliable stock, consistent specifications, and dependable supply.
- Full 50m rolls or multi-roll orders
- Batch traceability and technical data sheets available
- Consistent spec across orders – zero delamination
- We supply fabric only
Choose Your Weight
300gsm / 400gsm / 500gsm
Select the right gsm for your application. All three grades share the same acrylic water-resistant coating and ripstop grid construction – the difference is weight, strength, and intended load.
Lightweight and easy to work with. Ideal for gear bags, linings, and flexible outdoor covers. Can be sewn on a sturdy domestic machine.
- Tear Resist. Warp
- >70N
- Tear Resist. Weft
- >40N
- Waterproof
- >1,000mm H₂O
- Sewing
- Domestic or Industrial
- Best For
- Bags, Linings, Light Covers
The most versatile grade – the industry all-rounder. Tent makers, awning manufacturers, and cover fabricators rely on 400gsm daily.
- Tear Resist. Warp
- >100N
- Tear Resist. Weft
- >60N
- Waterproof
- >1,000mm H₂O
- Sewing
- Industrial Recommended
- Best For
- Bakkie Covers, Awnings, Lapa Blinds
Maximum strength in the ripSMART range. Built for safari tents, car seats, and sustained industrial exposure. Industrial machine required.
- Tear Resist. Warp
- >100N
- Tear Resist. Weft
- >200N
- Waterproof
- >1,000mm H₂O
- Sewing
- Industrial Only
- Best For
- Safari Tents, Car Seats, Industrial Tarps
Technical Data
Technical specifications: ripSMART Classic, 1.8m
ISO-tested data for procurement managers, engineers, and professional fabricators. Download the full TDS for batch traceability and test certifications. Every figure in this table is ripSMART Classic. ripSMART Select (1.8m, 2.4m and 3m) has its own figures: see the ripSMART Select data sheet.
| Specification | 300gsm | 400gsm | 500gsm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mass | 300 ±5% | 400 ±5% | 500 ±5% |
| Width | 1.8m | 1.8m | 1.8m |
| Roll Length | 50m | 50m | 50m |
| Weave | Ripstop Grid | Ripstop Grid | Ripstop Grid |
| Coating | Acrylic | Acrylic | Acrylic |
| Tear Resistance Warp [ISO 13937-2] | >70N | >100N | >100N |
| Tear Resistance Weft [ISO 13937-2] | >40N | >60N | >200N |
| Waterproof [ISO 811] | >1,000mm H₂O | >1,000mm H₂O | >1,000mm H₂O |
| Colour Fastness to Light [ISO 105-B04] | ≥7 | ≥7 | ≥7 |
| Colour Fastness to Rubbing [ISO 105-X12] | ≥4 | ≥4 | ≥4 |
| Fungal Resistance [AC M/L 13] | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Sewing | Domestic or Industrial | Industrial Recommended | Industrial Only |
Not sure what to look for on a datasheet? Here’s why we publish one for every fabric.
Packaging Dimensions – Full 50m Rolls
| Grade | Dimensions | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 300gsm | 180cm x 19cm x 19cm | 30.5 kg |
| 400gsm | 180cm x 20cm x 20cm | 36 kg |
| 500gsm | 180cm x 21cm x 21cm | 46 kg |
What Makes Ripstop Different
The Crosshatch Weave
Strength Without Weight
ripSMART is woven with a reinforcing crosshatch grid of thicker yarns at regular intervals. This structure delivers extreme tensile strength while keeping the fabric light and flexible – the industry standard where breathability and strength must coexist. Unlike traditional canvas, the ripstop grid handles the South African outdoors without the bulk.
Puncture Containment
If the fabric is punctured by a thorn, tool, or sharp edge, the reinforcing grid stops the rip from spreading. Small accidents stay small – they do not result in total fabric failure. This significantly extends the working life of covers, tents, and awnings in demanding African outdoor conditions.
What Ripstop is Used For
Typical Applications
ripSMART Ripstop is used by bakkie cover makers, tent manufacturers, awning fabricators, and safari lodge suppliers across South Africa.
Automotive & Bakkie Covers
Bakkie cover makers across SA use 400gsm as their go-to – it takes the weight of a tailgate, resists sun and rain, and holds its shape season after season. 500gsm is the choice for car seat upholstery and heavy trailer tarps.
Tents & Safari
Trusted safari tent fabric across southern Africa. Used for luxury safari tent bodies, camping tent structures, and fly sheets. 400gsm ripstop canvas for general tenting; 500gsm for permanent safari and glamping structures requiring maximum durability.
Ask about the silver-backed ripstop (300gsm) for tent roofs. It reflects the sun and keeps the inside cooler.
Awnings & Lapa Blinds
The standard awning fabric supplier choice for patio awnings, lapa roll-up blinds, and retractable shade structures across South Africa.
Industrial & Agricultural
Heavy-duty waterproof canvas for machine covers, agricultural equipment protection, and industrial tarps. 500gsm is built for years of outdoor use – purpose-made for the harshest industrial and agricultural conditions.
Camping & Expedition
300gsm is the go-to for overlanders and expedition gear – light enough to sew on a domestic machine, tough enough for southern African trails. Used for rooftop tent covers, tool rolls, and equipment bags.
Bags & DIY Projects
Available per metre or in full 50m rolls – 300gsm ripstop canvas is popular with smaller workshops, market traders, and DIY customers across South Africa for bags, light covers, and personal outdoor projects.
Choosing a car seat fabric? Read our guide: what’s the best fabric for car seat upholstery in South Africa.
ripSMART Ripstop Canvas
Available Colours
14 standard colours held in stock at our Midrand warehouse.
| GSM Weight | Duty Rating | Available Colours |
|---|---|---|
| 300gsm | Light Duty | Sand, Beige, Olive, Howard Green, Taupe, Navy, Light Grey, Dove Grey, Black. Aluminised silver backing options: Olive Silver, Light Grey Silver, Black Silver. |
| 400gsm | Mid Duty | Sand, Beige, Olive, Howard Green, Rust, Taupe, Dark Brown, Red, Navy, Light Grey, Dove Grey, Charcoal, Dark Grey, Black, Ecru. 2-Tone options available including Howard Green Sand. |
| 500gsm | Heavy Duty | Sand, Olive, Howard Green, Black. |
Good to know: the silver-backed options (Olive Silver, Light Grey Silver, Black Silver, usually in 300gsm) have your colour on one face and a reflective aluminised silver on the other. Face the silver outward to bounce the sun and cut the heat build-up underneath. It is a popular choice for tent roofs and anything that sits in full sun all day.
More Colour Options
2-Tone Colours
Front and back in contrasting colours for a premium finish. Popular combinations include Howard Green / Sand – ideal for awnings and covers where the underside is visible. Ask us about available combinations.
Aluminised / Silver Backing 300gsm only
An aluminium-pigmented silver backing bonded to the ripstop face – also known as Ripstop Aluminised. Reflects heat and light, making it ideal for shade structures and thermal covers. Popular options: Olive / Silver, Light Grey / Silver, and Black / Silver.
Custom Corporate Colours MOQ applies
For large-scale branding projects, fabric can be manufactured to specific Pantone shades. Lead times and minimum order quantities apply – contact us early in your project planning.
Branding & Printing MOQ applies
Custom printing is available for branded covers, promotional outdoor gear, and event structures. Suitable for companies requiring consistent, high-visibility branding across large fabric runs.
Custom colours, 2-tone combinations, aluminised finishes, and printed rolls are subject to minimum order quantities and extended lead times. Contact us to discuss your requirements before ordering.
Can’t find the colour or combination you need? Ask us directly – we stock a wider range than what is shown here.
Screen colours are a guide only – actual fabric will vary slightly. Dye lot variations between production batches are real. If colour consistency matters for your project, order your full quantity in a single order.
Ready to Order?
Get a Quote – Cut Lengths or Full Rolls
No minimum order. Midrand stock. Nationwide delivery. We respond within one business day.
ripSMART In Action
ripSMART Ripstop Canvas
Optional Coatings
Custom Treatments Available
Standard ripSMART Ripstop comes acrylic-coated and waterproof straight off the roll. Additional treatments are available on request.
DWR – Durable Water Repellent
Water forms large beads that roll off the surface. Available on 400gsm and 500gsm. Ideal for game lodges and premium outdoor gear where surface hydrophobicity is critical.
Block Out (BO)
Blocks sunlight and UV penetration. Ideal for tent bodies and hospitality structures requiring shade and light control.
Fire Retardant (FR)
Reduces flame spread and slows ignition. For events, hospitality, and regulated industrial environments. Does not make fabric completely fireproof.
Seam Sealing
The fabric is waterproof but needle holes allow moisture in. Use clear seambinder or colour-matched paste on all stitched seams – both available from Smart Ikhaya.
All optional treatments are subject to minimum order quantities and extended lead times. Contact us to discuss your requirements before ordering.
Which Fabric is Right?
ripSMART Ripstop vs PVC – Which Do You Need?
Both are used for outdoor covers and protection, but they serve different purposes. Ripstop is lighter, breathable, and sewable. PVC is fully waterproof and built for heavy structural applications.
| Feature | ripSMART Ripstop | TarpSMART PVC |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Covers, tents, awnings, bags | Heavy tarps, dams, grain covers |
| Weight Range | 300 / 400 / 500gsm | 400 – 850gsm |
| Waterproofing | Waterproof – acrylic coated (>1,000mm H₂O) | Fully waterproof |
| Breathability | Yes | No |
| Sewability | Yes – domestic or industrial | Welded or heavy industrial only |
| UV Resistance | Colour fastness to light 7 or above, on a scale of 1 to 8 [ISO 105-B04] | Excellent |
| Best For | Tent bodies, awnings, soft covers, car seats | Structural tarps, dams, grain covers |
Not sure which is right? WhatsApp us and we’ll advise.
Also worth a look
These work well alongside ripstop canvas.
Serafil M20 thread
UV-stabilised polyester thread for canvas, covers and seats. 3,000m cones.View product →Revive & Paste
Re-waterproofs faded, leaking ripstop canvas. Colour matched, no primer.View product →How to order
Four steps. Phone, WhatsApp or email Smart Ikhaya, whichever suits you.
Choose weight and colour
300gsm, 400gsm or 500gsm. We confirm the colour is in stock before you order.
Choose your quantity
Cut lengths by the linear metre, with no minimum for cut lengths, or full 50m rolls.
Get your quote
Phone, WhatsApp or email Smart Ikhaya with your specs. You get pricing and lead time back promptly.
Delivery or collection
Collect from our Midrand warehouse, or nationwide courier. We release the stock as soon as your EFT clears.
Full rolls cost less per metre than cut lengths. If your project uses 30 metres or more, the full roll is almost always the smarter buy. Not sure? WhatsApp us and we’ll do the calculation.
Request a quote
Cut lengths or full 50m rolls. No minimum order. Midrand stock – nationwide delivery. We respond within one business day.
Prefer email? lizl@smartikhaya.co.za
Quote request sent
Thank you. Lizl will be in touch within one business day.
In the meantime, feel free to WhatsApp her directly.
Still have questions?
Not sure on weight, quantity, or lead time?
Just ask – we respond fast.
Buying Guide
Measurement Guide
ripSMART Ripstop is sold by the linear metre. Use the formula below to convert your area into the right order quantity.
Linear Metre Formula
Take your total square metres and divide by 1.8 (the roll width). Add 10% for seams and overlap.
m² ÷ 1.8 + 10% = Linear Metres to order
Example: 18m² ÷ 1.8 = 10 linear metres
Not Sure?
Send us your dimensions and project description and we’ll help you calculate the exact quantity and recommend the right GSM for your application. WhatsApp us your dimensions.
Typical project quantities
Not sure how many metres to order? These are typical requirements for common South African projects. All figures assume 1.8m roll width. Confirm your final quantity before ordering – seam allowance and waste factor vary by fabricator.
| Project | Typical metres | Recommended GSM | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-cab bakkie cover | 4 – 6m | 400gsm | Includes sides and tailgate flap. Add 10% for seam allowance. |
| Double-cab bakkie cover | 6 – 9m | 400gsm | Longer load bed. Confirm cab-to-tailgate measurement first. |
| Lapa blind (per panel) | 2 – 4m | 400gsm | Width and drop vary by lapa. Measure opening width + 15cm. |
| Rooftop tent cover | 5 – 8m | 400gsm 500gsm | Roof and sides. 500gsm for permanent installations. |
| Safari / glamping tent body | 30 – 60m | 500gsm | Depends on tent size and wall height. Multi-roll order typical. |
| Patio awning (3m wide) | 4 – 6m | 400gsm | Standard drop 2.5m. Add 20% for hems and tensioning. |
| Gear / tool bag | 1 – 3m | 300gsm | Depends on bag dimensions. 300gsm is sewable on domestic machines. |
| Equipment / machinery cover | 3 – 8m | 400gsm 500gsm | Measure length + width + height + 30cm ground clearance all sides. |
| Trailer tarp | 5 – 12m | 400gsm | Trailer length + 60cm overhang each end. Width = 1.8m standard. |
| Spare wheel cover | 0.5 – 1m | 300gsm 400gsm | Small cut. Ideal for ordering alongside a larger project. |
Quick area calculator
Roll width is 1.8m. If your project exceeds 1.8m in any direction, seams will be required. Add 10 – 15% to your calculated figure for seam allowance and cutting waste. For irregular shapes, contact us and we will work out the correct linear metres.
Stock & Dispatch
Direct Procurement
From single cut lengths for DIY projects and small workshops to full 50m rolls for industrial production. We deliver ripSMART Ripstop canvas across South Africa and into SADC, with same-day collection available from our Midrand warehouse.
National Delivery
We deliver daily across Gauteng and regularly to Cape Town, Durban, George, and the Lowveld. Safari lodge supply to Hoedspruit and Nelspruit. SADC exports are ex-works Midrand – client arranges collection. Same-day collection available at our Midrand warehouse, Tillbury Business Park.
Who We Supply
- DIY customers – single metre cut lengths, no minimum order.
- Small workshops and custom canvas fabricators.
- Tent and awning manufacturers across South Africa.
- Automotive and bakkie cover makers.
- Safari lodge, glamping, and hospitality suppliers.
- Industrial and agricultural equipment cover manufacturers.
- Export buyers across southern Africa and SADC.
Frequently Asked Questions
ripSMART ripstop canvas FAQ
Where can I buy ripstop canvas in South Africa?
You can buy 300gsm, 400gsm, and 500gsm ripSMART Ripstop canvas from Smart Ikhaya in Midrand. Collect from our warehouse or we deliver nationwide across South Africa and into SADC.
Can I buy cut lengths by the metre?
Yes – anyone can order ripSMART by the linear metre. No minimum order for cut lengths. Our customers range from individual DIY projects to large-scale industrial manufacturers.
Are full rolls cheaper than cut lengths?
Yes. Full 50m rolls are priced at a lower rate per metre than cut lengths. If your project allows for a full roll, it offers better value. WhatsApp us and we’ll help you work out which makes more sense for your quantity.
What GSM should I choose?
300gsm suits lighter bags, linings, and covers. 400gsm is the most versatile choice for tents, awnings, and bakkie covers. 500gsm is built for safari tents, car seats, and heavy industrial use. Not sure? WhatsApp us and we’ll advise.
Is ripstop canvas waterproof?
The fabric itself tests at over 1,000mm H₂O – it is waterproof. However, needle holes from stitching can allow moisture in. Seal all stitched seams with seambinder or colour-matched paste (both available from us). DWR coating is also available on 400gsm and 500gsm for added surface performance.
Can I sew ripstop on a domestic sewing machine?
300gsm and 400gsm can generally be sewn on a sturdy domestic machine for once-off projects. For repeat production work an industrial machine is recommended. 500gsm and multiple layers require an industrial machine. Use the correct needle and high-quality polyester thread.
What colours are available?
Sand, Beige, Olive, Howard Green, Rust, Taupe, Dark Brown, Red, Navy, Light Grey, Dove Grey, Charcoal, Dark Grey, Black, Ecru, and various 2-tone and aluminised options. Not all colours are available in all GSM grades – confirm availability before ordering.
Do you offer samples?
Yes. Sample swatches are available so you can verify colour, weight, and texture before committing to a larger order. WhatsApp us to request a sample.
Can I get DWR or fire retardant treatment?
Yes. DWR is available on 400gsm and 500gsm. Fire retardant treatment is available for events, hospitality, and regulated industries. Minimum order quantities and lead times apply – contact us for a quote.
Do you deliver nationwide?
Yes. Collect from our Midrand warehouse or we deliver anywhere in South Africa. We also supply export clients across the SADC region – exports are Ex Works Midrand, client to arrange collection.
What does Warp and Weft mean?
Warp fibres run along the length of the 50m roll. Weft fibres run across the 1.8m width. Tear resistance is tested in both directions – the 500gsm grade achieves over 100N (Warp) and 200N (Weft) per ISO 13937-2.
Which colour is right for my environment?
Use lighter shades (Sand, Beige, Light Grey) for heat reflection in patio blinds and tents. Darker shades (Charcoal, Black) hide industrial dust and oil. Olive is standard for safari and bush applications. Navy and Red are popular for branding and promotional covers.
What is ripstop material?
Ripstop material is a woven fabric reinforced with a grid of thicker yarns at regular intervals – forming the characteristic crosshatch pattern. This grid stops tears and punctures from spreading, giving the fabric exceptional strength relative to its weight. ripSMART Ripstop canvas is an acrylic-coated polyester version available in 300gsm, 400gsm, and 500gsm weights – waterproof, UV-resistant, and manufactured in South Africa. It is the preferred ripstop canvas material for covers, awnings, tents, and bakkie covers across southern Africa.
What is ripstop fabric used for?
Ripstop fabric is used wherever lightweight strength and waterproofing are required together. In South Africa, the most common uses for ripstop canvas are: bakkie covers and vehicle covers (400gsm and 500gsm), patio awnings and lapa blinds (400gsm), safari and glamping tents (400gsm and 500gsm), rooftop tent covers, expedition gear bags, agricultural and industrial equipment covers, and shade structures. The 300gsm grade suits lighter applications such as gear bags, tool rolls, and DIY projects. See our full breakdown of ripstop canvas applications for use-case guidance by GSM weight.
How do you sew ripstop canvas?
Ripstop canvas is sewn using standard straight or zigzag stitching. 300gsm can be sewn on a sturdy domestic sewing machine for once-off projects. 400gsm is manageable on a domestic machine for light work but an industrial machine is recommended for production. 500gsm requires an industrial machine. Use a size 16-18 needle and UV-resistant polyester thread. Important: the fabric itself is waterproof, but needle holes create entry points for moisture – always seal stitched seams with seambinder tape or colour-matched seam paste after sewing. Both are available from Smart Ikhaya alongside the canvas.
Is ripstop canvas the same on both sides?
Yes. Standard ripstop is coated the same on both sides, so both faces are identical and you can use it either way when you make up your cover or tent. The one exception is the aluminised silver-backed range (Olive Silver, Light Grey Silver, Black Silver, usually available in 300gsm), where the coating is applied to one side only, so it has the colour on one face and reflective silver on the other.
Which side of silver-backed ripstop should face out?
Face the silver side outward. The aluminised silver, usually in 300gsm, reflects sunlight and cuts heat build-up underneath, which is why customers use it on tent roofs and shade structures that sit in full sun. Your colour then shows on the inside.
