What is Paracord?
Paracord is a braided nylon rope, originally developed as a parachute suspension line during World War II. Lightweight, strong, and versatile, it has since become an indispensable tool for outdoor activities, survival, and – in the case of Urban Kord – for creating premium quality handmade accessories.
How it's Made
Paracord consists of a braided nylon outer sheath that encloses one or more inner strands (the so-called "cores"). The number and thickness of these strands determine the type of paracord and its load-bearing capacity.
True paracord will always be made of nylon and not some other material like polypropylene or polyester. Nylon is waterproof and mildew resistant. It is elastic, which allows it to have some give, so it won't snap. It also gives paracord its soft texture, making it easier on your hands.
Paracord 550 — The Most Versatile
Paracord 550 is the standard, classified as Type III. The number indicates its breaking strength: 550 lbs, approximately 250 kg.
- Diameter: approximately 4 mm
- Inner cores: 7 nylon strands
- Strength: 250 kg
- Use: bracelets, necklaces, keychains, laces, survival kits
It is the main material for all Urban Kord accessories. Robust, soft to the touch, and available in over 50 colors.
N.B. Paracord 550 IS NOT a rescue or climbing rope; it cannot and MUST NOT be used to support human or animal loads because, despite holding up to 250 kg (550 lbs), if subjected to gravitational acceleration (a falling body), it could break. A free-falling body creates an acceleration of up to 10 times its own weight.
Paracord 425 — Compact and Precise
Paracord 425 is classified as Type II and represents the thinner and lighter version of the 550.
- Diameter: approximately 3 mm
- Inner cores: 3 nylon strands
- Strength: 425 lbs, approximately 190 kg
- Use: necklaces, finer weaves, lightweight accessories
Ideal when a thinner and more refined result is desired, while still maintaining excellent strength. Urban Kord uses it upon request for more delicate necklaces and keychains.
Microcord — The Detail That Makes the Difference
Microcord is the ultra-thin version of paracord, with a diameter of 1.18 mm. It is not designed for high loads, but for precision and detailed work.
- Diameter: 1.18 mm
- Inner cores: 1 strand
- Strength: approximately 36 kg
- Use: decorative weaves, finishing, mini keychains, paracord jewelry
Perfect for those looking for a more discreet and refined accessory, with the same Urban Kord craftsmanship.
⚠️ Beware of Fake Paracord
Anyone can now produce paracord and pass it off as genuine; just write "550 Mil-Spec Type III" on the package and that's it, but unfortunately, it's not that simple. Just because something looks like paracord or is called paracord, doesn't mean it's true paracord.
To avoid unpleasant pitfalls, just follow these simple steps:
- Original Paracord 550 consists of 7 inner cores, each composed of 3 twisted filaments. All 7 cores are the same size and, if separated, the 3 filaments of each core are also of the same size.
- The outer color of the paracord should be matte and not shiny: shininess is a symptom of poor quality of the outer sheath.
- True paracord should be semi-rigid but soft in use. If too soft, the inner structure is of poor quality.
Why Urban Kord Chooses Paracord
It's not just a material – it's a philosophy. Paracord combines functionality and design: every accessory you wear can be unraveled if needed, giving you meters of strong cord. Handmade in Italy, with selected materials and customizable colors, each Urban Kord piece is unique.
Want to choose your color? Consult our Paracord Color Guide – with all available colors for paracord 550, 425, and microcord – or contact us on WhatsApp for a personalized combination.