Ripstop fabrics are woven fabrics, often made of nylon, using a special reinforcing technique that makes them resistant to tearing and ripping. During weaving, (thick) reinforcement threads are interwoven at regular intervals in a crosshatch pattern. The intervals are typically 5 to 8 millimeters (0.2 to 0.3 in). Thin and lightweight ripstop fabri... Found on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ripstop
Fabric woven with double thread at regular intervals to achieve small squares that prevent tears from spreading. Usually a nylon or polyester. Used for outerwear, sleeping bags, kites, packs, and tents. Ripstop was originally used in parachutes and sails. Found on http://www.encyclo.co.uk/local/21117