When it comes to building dog gear that’s as tough as your dog, the materials matter. At American Ruffneck, we’ve tested them all, nylon, leather, rubber, PVC-coated webbing, and one material continues to outperform the rest: BioThane.
Here’s why BioThane is our go-to for everything from collars to leashes, and why we believe it’s the best choice for working dogs, adventure dogs, and everyday dogs alike.
What Is BioThane?
BioThane is a USA-made polyester webbing coated in a proprietary TPU or PVC material. Unlike traditional PVC-coated webbing that’s often cheaply manufactured overseas, BioThane is produced under strict quality control standards in Ohio.
It was originally designed for equine tack and sporting gear, which means it’s built to withstand hard use, weather extremes, and years of wear. That’s the kind of reliability we want for our dogs.
Why BioThane Beats PVC-Coated Webbing
Not all coated webbing is created equal. While some manufacturers use generic PVC-coated straps to cut costs, the performance difference is easy to spot.
1. Strength and Durability
BioThane has been lab-tested to maintain tensile strength even after prolonged use. It won’t crack, fray, or stretch over time. Some off-brand PVC-coated webbing can become brittle or degrade in extreme heat or cold, BioThane doesn’t.
2. Waterproof and Stink-Proof
Dogs roll in everything. BioThane doesn’t absorb moisture, odors, or bacteria, which makes it ideal for wet, muddy, or high-activity environments. Just wipe it down and go.
3. Safer for Your Dog
Some cheaper coated webbing can have rough edges or contain questionable materials. BioThane is soft, smooth, and safe against your dog’s skin. Plus, it's FDA-compliant for direct skin contact and is lead-free.
4. Better in the Field
Whether your dog is scaling rocky trails, diving into lakes, or assisting on a job site, BioThane holds up. It stays flexible in freezing temperatures and doesn’t get slippery when wet, making it easier for you to keep control.
5. Made in the USA
When you choose BioThane, you’re supporting American manufacturing. As a veteran-owned brand, that matters to us, and it matters to many of our customers who want gear that aligns with their values.
We Know It’s Not the Cheapest And That’s the Point
There are less expensive options out there, and we’ve tested many of them. Some PVC-coated straps are visually similar but made in factories with zero oversight. You might save a few bucks, but you risk weak stitching, hardware failure, and early replacement.
We don't cut corners. Every collar and leash is built to last, and it starts with premium materials.
Get Yours Today
We believe your dog deserves gear that can keep up, whether you’re heading out for a walk or gearing up for a dog show. That's why we stand by BioThane. Check out our BioThane options today!
