Abstract: A three-dimensional multilayer fabric is provided. The fabric comprises a surface layer, a backing layer, and an intermediate layer connecting the surface layer and the backing layer. The surface layer includes sequential unstitched surface portions and sequential stitched surface portions formed in an alternating and repeating pattern. The unstitched surface portions of the surface layer are essentially composed of surface warp threads only, and the stitched surface portions of the surface layer are composed of the surface warp threads and intermediate warp threads. The backing layer includes sequential unstitched backing portions and sequential stitched backing portions formed in an alternating and repeating pattern. The unstitched backing portions of the backing layer are essentially composed of backing warp threads only, and the stitched backing portions of the backing layer are composed of the backing warp threads and the intermediate warp threads.