Will it be open like dirt and things will get into it more often than normal? Idk how well it cleans but I’ve used mordura materials for crane seats. Nice weave used in a lot of over the road trucks. Seems to last well for that industry where they live in the seats.

Yeah, good question -- "rugged" as in aesthetic or practicality? Do you want it to look "rugged" or actually be "rugged," all-weather, etc?

If it's the latter, you might consider textiles created for outdoor furniture. They're designed to withstand most anything.

I just used 1000 denier Cordura on a loader (tractor) air ride seat. It won't rip and is a woven material so it's breathable. Time will tell how long it holds up but the same thing used in soft luggage etc. so.......

Many of the aftermarket fabrics are not good for upholstery.There are companies who are selling fabrics that are durable
Sometimes I have customers come in with materials they have purchased and very good quality materials.
Research some of The manufactures of specialty products some even have special threads I'm not at the now maybe I could check and research them ,however If you get on the internet you can find the also some materials come from other countries Harry at Veteran company Los Angeles may be able to help phone number 1323 3 2233 God pee.

I messed up Veterans #1 323 937 2233 speak to Harry good people.

Seamark sunbrella gets my vote.

I use a lot of 1000 denier for fire apparatus seats. Seems to hold up well.