What material is used for wildland hose construction?

• A. Nylon
• B. Cotton
• C. 100% polyester
• D. Polypropylene

Answer: (C)

Wildland hose needs to be strong, lightweight, and able to stand up to rugged outdoor use, including abrasion from brush, sun exposure, and heat, while not getting overly heavy when wet. Polyester fits this need well: a 100% polyester jacket provides good abrasion resistance and strength, stays dimensionally stable, resists UV damage, and doesn’t soak up much water. That combination helps the hose endure rough terrain and outdoor conditions and remain easier to handle in the field.

Cotton, by contrast, absorbs water, dries slowly, and isn’t as durable under heat and abrasion. Nylon is strong but absorbs more water and can stretch or creep under load, which isn’t ideal for steady performance in rough wildland work. Polypropylene is lighter but typically offers poorer abrasion resistance and less durability in demanding outdoor use. So, 100% polyester is the best fit for wildland hose construction.