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Understanding the concept of high tensile strength is fundamental when we look at polymers for fiber applications. This refers to the polymer's ability to resist breaking under tension, which is a critical feature in materials destined to be used in textiles, ropes, or high-performance composites.

Imagine pulling both ends of a rubber band; it stretches because of its high tensile strength. Similarly, polymers with high tensile strength can endure significant pulling forces without snapping, making them ideal for products that experience constant stretching. It’s not just the raw strength that matters but also the material's ability to maintain functionality over repeated use without deforming or weakening.

Examples of applications that benefit from polymers with high tensile strength include parachutes, climbing equipment, and bullet-proof vests. In these products, the material's resistance to intense stress is paramount for safety and performance.

While flexibility in polymers might seem contrary to high tensile strength, it's quite a complementary attribute. Flexibility is the polymer's ability to bend and twist without breaking. This trait is particularly important for fibers that need to move with the body, such as in clothing, or to create shapes that require bending, like hoses and cables.

Flexible polymers boast an intrinsic pliancy that allows them to be manipulated during the manufacturing process. This characteristic is essential in textile production, where the fibers are repeatedly bent and twisted to create fabrics and garments. Polymers like elastane, known for their elasticity, are used in applications requiring both stretch and recovery, maintaining shape after deformation.

Moreover, polymer flexibility opens up possibilities for innovative design, encouraging the production of ergonomic and comfortable materials that can fit various forms and uses, greatly enhancing the user experience.

The durability of polymers is a testament to their longevity and resistance to various forms of degradation. When we talk about durability in relation to fiber applications, we're considering the polymer's ability to withstand wear, environmental factors, and chemical exposure over time.

For instance, outdoor fabrics need polymers that resist sunlight and moisture, combating fading and mildew. Durability also means maintaining performance after exposure to sweat, washing detergents, and mechanical abrasion, elements that clothing and other wearable fibers regularly encounter.

Polymers like nylon and polyester are lauded for their durable properties, thus are widely used in outdoor gear and high-use textiles. These durable fibers support the creation of long-lasting products, reducing the need for frequent replacements and contributing to sustainable consumer practices.

Lastly, fiber processing pertains to the various treatments and manipulations polymers undergo to become usable fibers. This area is wide-ranging, from initial synthesis to spinning, texturing, and finishing. Each stage of processing is crucial, and the properties of the polymers used determine the efficiency and quality of the end product.

Aspects such as the polymer's melting point, solubility, and response to chemicals matter greatly when fibers are being drawn, spun, dyed, or treated for final use. Innovations in fiber processing aim at reduced energy consumption, enhanced material performance, and new functionalities, such as 'smart' fibers that change color or texture.

Mastery of fiber processing technologies allows for the optimization of materials for specific applications, whether it's creating superfine fibers for medical use or sturdy, heat-resistant threads for firefighter suits.