There are two common types for modern hose—rubber jacket and woven jacket.

Cotton Jacket

Fire hose of the past had jackets woven from natural fibers, often cotton with a rubber lining. While this hose is still used for some forestry and utility applications, it is not likely to be used for structural or municipal firefighting due to its lack of durability and a tendency to rot if not properly dried.

Nylon Jacket
Nylon is known to be a strong thread, but it often requires abrasion-resistant coatings to protect it from damage and burn-through.

Polyester Jacket

Polyester is typically a bit more durable and budget friendly, as it can be specified without an abrasion-resistant coating. In most instances, if colored hose is desired, it will require that the hose is coated with the abrasion-resistant coating, as the thread itself is not colored.

The type of yarn weave will also impact the hose in its flexibility, as well as kink resistance. When reviewing manufacturer's literature, you may ask about the type of yarn and weave and how it relates to the ability of the hose to resist kinking and remain flexible. Look at some of the better performing hoses that have high kink resistance, and compare the actual construction.

In addition to the type of jacket, fire hose is available in single- and double-jacket.