When It Really Matters: Understanding the Difference Between Genuine BioThane® and Imitation “Waterproof Webbing”

When It Really Matters: Understanding the Difference Between Genuine BioThane® and Imitation “Waterproof Webbing”

If you’ve ever shopped for waterproof equine tack or dog gear, you’ll almost certainly have come across “Biothane” (and variations of it) - typically promoted as a robust, waterproof alternative to leather or nylon. But here’s the truth that many customers don’t realise:

👉 Not all waterproof webbing marketed as Biothane is actually genuine Biothane®.
Many cheaper, lower-quality materials (like generic silicone or PVC coatings over weak cores) are being sold under confusing descriptions - often by overseas manufacturers with little transparency on origin or performance. Yes other waterproof webbings might be initially cheaper, but this also means they often don't perform safely and aren't as durable. That’s why we’re here to break down the facts in a clear, customer-focused way.

What Real BioThane® Is

Genuine BioThane® is a brand name, not a generic material. It refers specifically to coated webbing manufactured by BioThane Coated Webbing Corp using tightly controlled processes, premium materials and strict quality standards.

At its core, real BioThane® consists of:

• A high-quality polyester webbing core, engineered for strength
• A TPU or PVC coating, permanently bonded to the core to create a waterproof, non-porous surface
• Consistent manufacturing and quality control, ensuring predictable performance

Genuine BioThane® also includes premium coating classes such as Beta® BioThane® - a trademarked, higher-density coating known for its leather-like feel, flexibility and long-term durability, far exceeding that of generic coated or silicone webbings.

BioThane US has over 50 years of manufacturing experience, and their coated webbing is trusted not only in the pet and equine world, but also in military, medical, industrial and safety-critical applications, where consistent performance and material traceability are essential.

Why BioThane® Commands a Higher Price (and Why It’s Worth It)

1. Proven Strength and Durability

The strength of genuine BioThane® comes from both the quality of its polyester core and the precision of the coating process. Because both are produced under strict controls, the result is a material that:

• Maintains reliable tensile strength
• Does not delaminate or weaken over time
• Resists abrasion, cracking and coating failure

Many imitation “waterproof webbings” use lower-density cores and inconsistent coatings, which can look acceptable when new but degrade far more quickly in real-world use.

2. Waterproof, Non-Porous & Hygienic

Real BioThane® is completely non-porous. Water, sweat, mud and bacteria remain on the surface and can be wiped away easily, rather than soaking in.

This means:

✔ No trapped moisture
✔ No lingering odours
✔ No mildew or bacterial build-up
✔ Minimal maintenance compared to leather, nylon or cheap coated webbings

Some alternatives may appear waterproof initially, but over time can absorb contaminants, soften unevenly or begin to smell as moisture becomes trapped beneath the coating.

3. Comfort, Flexibility & Consistency

Genuine BioThane®, particularly Beta® BioThane®, remains flexible in cold weather and comfortable against skin. Lower-quality silicone or PVC webbings often feel rubbery or plasticky, stiffen in colder temperatures, or stretch unpredictably.

For animals, that difference matters:

• Reduced rubbing and chafing
• Better comfort during long periods of wear
• Easier handling for owners and handlers

4. Authenticity, Transparency & Traceability

“BioThane” is a registered trademark, not a descriptive term. Products made from genuine BioThane® can be traced back to a known manufacturer with defined specifications and quality standards.

If a supplier cannot clearly confirm:

• the origin of their webbing,
• the coating class used, or
• whether it is genuine BioThane®,

then it is highly likely the material is an unbranded alternative - regardless of how it is described.

Genuine BioThane® vs Imitation Waterproof Webbing

What Customers Should Look For

When choosing waterproof tack or accessories, ask these simple questions:

✔ Is the material genuine BioThane®, not just “Biothane-style”?
✔ Can the seller confirm the coating class, such as Beta® BioThane®?
✔ Is the material origin and specification transparent?
✔ Does the webbing feel dense, smooth and flexible - not rubbery or hollow?

If the answers are vague, unclear or focused purely on price, it’s worth being cautious.

In Conclusion

Genuine BioThane® isn’t just about appearance - it’s about engineering, experience and proven performance. The higher price reflects material quality, controlled manufacturing, long-term durability and trust built over decades across multiple industries.

At Trinkety Paws, we want to be transparent and choose authentic materials because we know the difference they make - not just on day one, but years down the line. By understanding what real BioThane® is (and what it isn’t), customers can make informed decisions and invest in products that truly stand the test of time.