What Is Lycra Fabric?

Lycra is a popular stretchy fabric used for, mostly, a variety of clothing items. Lycra is also known to be used for bed sheets, bike seat covers and diapers, but in much smaller quantities than in clothing. With its stretching qualities, Lycra is a one-of-a-kind fabric.

History

Lycra is the most popular brand of the material spandex that is often used in exercise clothing, leggings, bathing suits and socks. Lycra is known for its elasticity and form-fitting nature.

Function

Lyrca is a lightweight, breathable fabric that is comfortable and uses compression to fit closely to the body. This makes it ideal for exercising so extra fabric doesn't restrict you, as well as for undergarments to make the body seem more fit.

Usage

Lycra is usually combined with other fabrics such as cotton and polyester to complete the article of clothing. Lycra is more often used in women's clothing than men's, due to the form-fitting nature that appeals more to women.

History

A scientist at DuPont invented spandex in 1959 and soon thereafter trademarked its version of the fabric as Lycra. Although women's undergarments are the majority of the Lycra business, it remains a popular fabric due to its resistance to detergents, lotions and perspiration, unlike rubber thread.

Fun Fact

Lyra can be stretched up to 600 percent, yet still return to its original shape and size.

Resources

• The many uses of Lycra