PALS is the attachment grid; MOLLE is a load-carrying equipment system that uses it. The terms are often used together, but a request for “MOLLE webbing” still needs a defined material, construction, size and acceptance requirement.
Common Sewn PALS Grid Dimensions
The U.S. Army’s historical equipment survey describes horizontal rows of 1-inch webbing, a 1-inch clear gap between rows, and attachment to the backing at 1.5-inch intervals. Those nominal dimensions explain the familiar grid. Your equipment drawing controls tolerances, stitch details and any variations.
What Is MOLLE?
MOLLE stands for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. Pouches and other components use compatible attachment arrangements to connect to the grid. Compatibility also depends on how the attachment straps are woven through the rows and secured. A material roll is not a complete MOLLE equipment qualification.
Specify the Webbing, Not Only the System Name
| RFQ field | What to specify |
|---|---|
| Width and tolerance | Distinguish a nominal 1 inch (25.4 mm) from a separately specified 25 mm construction |
| Thickness and hand | Fit through the intended attachment path and sewing stack |
| Material/standard | Exact polymer, document revision and type/class if required |
| Dimensional stability | Measurement before/after the specified conditioning; no blanket zero-shrinkage promise |
| Strength and abrasion | Required values, method, conditioning and acceptance rule |
| Color and NIR | Visual reference plus any spectral curve and conditioning requirements |
| Stitching | Backing, thread, bartack details and completed-assembly verification |
Nylon, Polyester and Required Specifications
Nylon is common in military woven-webbing specifications, but a blanket statement that all polyester fails is incorrect. The approved equipment requirement determines the material and performance. Do not substitute a different polymer or construction just because it fits the grid.
When an RFQ references MIL-W-17337 or A-A-55301, resolve the exact specification and classification. A-A-55301 is a nylon-webbing document. See the 17337/55301 comparison.
Sewn Webbing vs Laser-Cut PALS
Laser-cut attachment panels and sewn-webbing grids use different constructions. Compare the panel laminate or fabric, slit geometry, reinforcement, edge behavior and complete assembly tests. Do not transfer a sewn-webbing breaking-force result to a cut panel or claim that either method is universally more durable.
Sampling Before Bulk Production
Provide a drawing and sample of the mating pouch or attachment system. Check weaving, fit, seam bulk, dimensional change and the required test results before approving production. Compare the shipped lot to the approved construction and finish.
TMG manufactures in Dongguan, China. Explore our military webbing options and camouflage library. Technical performance capability and U.S.-origin procurement eligibility are separate matters.
Sources and Technical References
Specify Your Webbing for a Factory Quote
TMG Webbing manufactures in Dongguan, China. Custom webbing MOQ is 3,000 meters, with a standard production lead time of 15 days after specification and sample approval. Confirm the schedule for your material and finish. Stock availability and finished-product quantities are quoted separately.
Send the material, width, thickness, construction, color, quantity, required tests and end use. We hold GRS and OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certificates; ask us to confirm the applicable article scope for your order.