The present invention relates to a urethane-based coating having nanoparticles for improving the characteristics of a papermaking process belt, roll cover and belts used in textile applications. For example, the present invention improves resistance to flex fatigue, crack propagation, groove closure and wear characteristics of urethane coatings on such belts and roll coverings. The present invention also improves the resistance to water and oil permeation characteristics of urethane coated belts and roll coverings.