Nylons are a type of synthetic fabric made from polyamide fibers. They were first introduced in the 1930s and quickly became popular for their strength, elasticity, and resistance to wear and tear. Nylons are commonly used in clothing, such as stockings and activewear, as well as in various industrial applications. The invention of nylons is often credited to chemist Wallace Carothers, who worked for DuPont. This material revolutionized the textile industry and provided a more durable alternative to natural fibers like silk. Today, nylons are widely used in products ranging from clothing to ropes and parachutes.