Flag materials are made from one of three fabrics: cotton, nylon, or polyester.
Cotton fabric is a traditional natural fiber which offers classic appearance but is more likely to fade, stain, shrink, and loose shape when displayed outside. Polyester and nylon fabrics are more suitable for outdoor display.
Nylon is the most popular and economical flag fabric. Genuine nylon flags are made from versatile 200-denier weight nylon. Excellent quality, superior ultraviolet resistance and good value make nylon the most popular fabric choice by commercial and residential customers.
Polyester is a heavier material and will outlast nylon flags before fraying on the fly end. Polyester is preferred for display in strong wind and unpredictable weather conditions. Though not as fade resistant as nylon, polyester flag fabric is preferred for 24-hour display and large-size flag display.
In summary, polyester and nylon fabrics are more suitable for outdoor display than cotton flags. And polyester fabric is preferred choice for 24-hour display and large size flags.