Elastane

Elastane is rarely 100% of a garment; look for 2–30% with nylon, polyester, or cotton. Labels: elastane, spandex, Lycra (brand).

Stretch recovery and bagging out indicate elastane quality.

Spandex was invented at DuPont in 1959; elastane is the European generic name, Lycra a major brand.[1] Encyclopaedia Britannica describes polyurethane elastic structure.[2]

1970s–1980s stretch denim and aerobics wear made elastane visible in fashion.[1] Today it is nearly ubiquitous in leggings, swim, socks, and fitted wovens.[1][2]

Elastane does not recycle easily in mechanical cotton recycling; mono-fiber design is hard when stretch is required.[1] High heat degrades elasticity in care.[2]

Activewear, swim, lingerie, stretch denim, fitted dresses, and socks.[1][2]

Expect stretch in skinny jeans and bodycon dresses. Avoid hot dryers to preserve recovery. For compression sport, higher elastane with nylon is typical.[1]

Nylon adds strength; elastane adds stretch—they often blend. Polyester stretch knits use both. Natural fibers lack elastane’s recovery unless knit tightly.[1][2]

Elastane enables body-conscious, athletic, and comfort-stretch silhouettes without visible hardware.

Spandex vs elastane? Same fiber; regional naming.[1]

How much elastane in jeans? Often 1–3% for comfort stretch; jeggings higher.[1]

Does elastane break down? Chlorine, heat, and age reduce stretch recovery.[2]