Why everyone's searching for biothane
If your dog treats every puddle as an invitation, you've probably searched for a biothane dog collar or lead. It's become the go-to word for gear that doesn't soak up water, mud or that unmistakable wet-dog smell.
But biothane is actually a brand name, not a material type. And it isn't the only waterproof option out there. Here's how biothane compares with the waterproof coated webbing we use at AMALFIE, so you can choose what suits you and your dog.
What is biothane?
BioThane is a trademarked coated webbing made by BioThane Coated Webbing Corp, a company based in Ohio, USA, that has been making it since 1977. It's polyester webbing sealed in a plastic coating, either TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or PVC.
That coating is what makes it waterproof, smell-resistant and easy to wipe clean. It's why biothane became popular with dog owners, horse riders and working-dog handlers.
The key thing to know: biothane is one brand of coated webbing. Plenty of dog gear uses the same idea, a strong webbing core with a waterproof coating, without carrying the BioThane name.
What is AMALFIE's waterproof coated webbing?
Our collars and leads are made from strong nylon webbing with a soft waterproof PVC coating. PVC is one of the two coatings biothane itself uses, so it works on the same principle: the coating seals the webbing so water, mud, sand and smells can't soak in.
We chose a softer, smoother finish so our gear feels comfortable in the hand and around your dog's neck. Our hands-free lead uses 3.5mm thick webbing, so it's flexible without feeling flimsy.
Every piece is finished with solid brass hardware, which won't rust. Brass can develop a natural patina over time, especially after beach walks, which many owners love.
Biothane vs AMALFIE at a glance
Both keep water and smells out; the main differences are the core fabric, the feel and the hardware.
|
|
Biothane |
AMALFIE waterproof coated webbing |
|---|---|---|
|
Core |
Polyester webbing |
Nylon webbing |
|
Coating |
TPU or PVC |
Soft PVC |
|
Waterproof |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Odour-resistant |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Cleaning |
Wipe clean |
Wipe clean with a damp cloth and mild soap |
|
Feel |
Varies by maker and product line |
Soft, smooth and flexible |
|
Hardware |
Varies by maker |
Solid brass, rust-resistant |
|
Designed for |
General dog gear, often sold by small makers |
Matching collar, hands-free lead and walking bag sets |
|
Made by |
BioThane Coated Webbing Corp (USA) |
AMALFIE, shipped from Australia |
Which is right for your dog?
If what you want is gear that survives swims, mud and rain without smelling, either option will do the job. The choice comes down to feel, style and how you like to walk.
- Beach and water dogs: both are a big upgrade on plain nylon or leather, which soak up water and smell. Rinse either with fresh water after salt water.
- Comfort in the hand: if you find some coated straps stiff, our softer coating is worth a look.
- Hands-free walking: our 3-in-1 lead can be worn crossbody, around the waist or held, and adjusts with two movable rings.
- A matching set: our collar, lead and walking bag come in coordinating colours, so everything goes together.
How to care for waterproof coated webbing
If you've owned biothane, this routine will feel familiar.
- Rinse with fresh water after beach walks.
- Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap when it's muddy. Avoid the washing machine.
- Air dry away from direct sunlight.
- For extra shine, wipe the webbing lightly with baby oil or silicone oil.
- Dry the brass hardware with a soft cloth to slow natural patina.
FAQ
Are AMALFIE collars and leads made from biothane? No. BioThane is a trademarked material from one US manufacturer. Ours are made from nylon webbing with a soft waterproof PVC coating, one of the same coating types biothane uses, which gives the same waterproof, wipe-clean, odour-resistant benefits.
Is coated webbing better than nylon? For wet and muddy walks, yes. Plain nylon soaks up water and holds smells, while a coated strap stays dry and wipes clean.
Can my dog swim in a waterproof collar? Yes. Rinse it with fresh water after salt water and let it dry.
Will it smell after getting wet? The coating stops water and dirt soaking into the webbing, which is what causes that wet-dog smell.
How do I choose the right collar size? Measure the widest part of your dog's neck. Medium fits 30.5 to 38.1cm and Large fits 38.1 to 45.7cm.
Shop the waterproof collection
If you came looking for a biothane collar or lead, our waterproof coated webbing gives you the same easy-clean, smell-free walks, in a softer finish with solid brass hardware.