LYCRA®



Lycra® is a type of stretch fiber, or spandex, that is a registered trademark of Invista, formerly DuPont.  Lycra® was first developed by DuPont scientists in 1958 as an alternative to the rubber used in corsets.

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It is the most recognized and popular brand of spandex throughout the world and many designers and clothing manufacturers use Lycra® in their products.  Never used alone, but always blended with other fibers, it has unique stretch and recovery properties.  LYCRA®  fiber adds comfort, fit, shape retention, durability and freedom of movement.  This is achieved thanks to the unique properties of the fiber, which can be stretched up to seven times its initial length before springing back to the original position once tension is released.  Any natural or man-made fibers can be mixed with LYCRA® fiber.  Very small amounts of LYCRA® fiber can transform the performance of a fabric – the amount of LYCRA® fiber in a material can be as little as 2%.  There are various ways of integrating LYCRA® fiber with other fibers to provide fabrics for all needs.



LYCRA® consists of polymer chains with rigid and flexible portions, allowing the fiber both to stretch significantly and to retain its shape.  Lycra® can be made in different deniers, or widths, suitable for use in a variety of products. The thinnest type, for example, is used in hosiery.



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