Whipcord cloth is very much like gabardine, but the yarn is bulkier and much more pronounced

It is very durable, rugged and stands hard usage and wear. In time, it shines a bit with wear. Some times the back is napped for warmth. It is called whipcord because it simulates the lash of a whip. Whipcord is often used for topcoats, uniform cloths, suitings, equestrian and other sportswear.

The Technique

Whipcord is a hard-twisted, worsted twill fabric that has diagonal ribs so prominent that the twills stand up boldly in a kind of rolled effect, suggesting the plaited lash of a whip. Weight ranges from 12 to 20 ounces.  The twill is steep 63 degrees and goes from left to right (except for cotton).

The Effect

Like corduroy, whipcord is ribbed, but minus the fuzziness—and heaviness. Two-tone versions of a suit made with whipcord, project a subtle seersucker weave look without that 'Southern United States lawyer' or 'Ivy League bow-tie-guy' oppressiveness.