FabricLink
Visit Us on FaceBook  Follow Us on Twitter
August 18, 2026


TEXTILE RESOURCE FOR FABRICS, APPAREL, HOME FURNISHINGS AND FABRIC CARE

Featured Presentations

Velcro Logo
Draper Knitting Company
eVentStorm ST
Eclat-Allmore
Teflon Eco Elite
eVent

The Txtile Gateway, Inspire Students, Learn how You Can Help
 
Fabric University, knowledge to make informed fabric decisions
Fabric University | Fabric Seminar | Fiber Characteristics | Spandex
Fiber Characteristics

SPANDEX

Manufactured Fiber

CHARACTERISTICS:

  • Lightweight
  • Can be stretched over 500% without breaking
  • Able to be stretched repetitively and still recover original length
  • Abrasion resistant
  • Stronger, more durable than rubber
  • Soft, smooth and supple
  • Resistant to body oils, perspiration, lotions or detergents
  • No static or pilling problems

 

MAJOR END USES:

  • Apparel - articles where stretch is desired: athletic apparel, bathing suits, foundation garments, ski pants, slacks, hosiery, socks, belts.

Comment - Lycra® is the most familiar spandex fiber, and is DuPont's brand name for its spandex fiber. An interesting fact about spandex is that it was developed as a substitute for rubber. And, when it was first introduced in 1959, it totally revolutionized the swimwear and foundations industry. Although it has poor strength, it stretches over 500%. So, the excellent stretch of spandex compensates for the fact that it's a weak fiber.


Return to Fiber Characteristics Index

Continue to Fiber/Fabric Care
Or, Return to Seminar Index

Please let us know your comments about this site. Or, contact us to find out more about our live seminar programs for major retailers, associations or consumer groups.

 


ZYIA - Item 201 - BlackAll-Star Bra
For high-impact sports and long workouts, nothing beats the functionality and support of our All Star. The high-fit neckline lets you focus on your workout while the mesh panel keeps you cool. A wide, ventilated back panel and zippered racer back construction offer additional stay-in-place support and a touch of style that makes this bra worth wearing solo.

Shop for this technology>


ZYIA - Item 1529 - Men's Black Track Shorts - Long
We designed these track shorts to be unlined, for the athlete that likes to keep his options open. We also designed them to last, with features like double top-stitched hems, gasket-finished zippers. There are also 4 generous pockets & made with anti-chafe seams, just a hint of stretch and plenty of wicking performance.

Shop for this technology.


NETWORK PARTNERS
The Technical Center ATA - Advance Textile Association Outdoor Retailer Material Wise - Your podcast on Material Matters AFFOA logo INDA - Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry Textile World & Textiles PanAmericanos Fashion for Profit Consulting Textile Communications Techtextil North America
gif