The LYCRA® ADAPTIV brand, which famously allows for a dynamic stretch that fits and adjusts to the wearer’s movement, is expanding.
Launched by The LYCRA Company in September, LYCRA® ADAPTIV BLACK fiber reduces spandex grin-through and resists fiber damage caused by chlorine, sunscreens, anti-chafing creams, ultraviolet (UV) exposure and heat.
The Wilmington, Del.-based company’s latest innovation was created to satisfy consumers looking to invest in fewer, higher-quality garments they can wear longer—which is more sustainable than fast-fashion apparel that “wears out quickly,” according to Steve Stewart, chief brand and innovation officer at Lycra.
Related Stories
“From ideation to execution, developing this innovation took approximately 8-10 months after building upon the main polymer. Since its launch, LYCRA® ADAPTIV fiber has become one of our most popular fibers, and the feedback we have received from mills, brands and consumers has been overwhelmingly positive,” he added. “Therefore, our main goal was to expand this franchise to meet consumers’ need for more durable garments.”
Fiber advantages
The advantage of this patent-pending fiber is its “unique hybrid behavior,” according to Stewart. When the body is at rest, it acts as a high-power spandex to deliver exceptional fit, shaping and compression. And when in motion, the fiber adapts to offer a soft, comfortable stretch and provides freedom of movement.
“Garments with LYCRA® ADAPTIV BLACK fiber fit like a second skin, delivering outstanding wearing comfort, while its soft power adapts to fit different body shapes and simply makes them easier to put on or take off,” said Stewart. “The fiber prevents grin-through and glitter-like effect because of its spun-in black pigment. The color doesn’t bleed because it is not dyed but built into the fiber. Ultimately, it keeps its pure black color for longer. This helps keep garments in consumers’ closets longer.”
In addition to acting as high-power spandex, the LYCRA® ADAPTIV fiber offering allows brand clients to create long-lasting apparel addressing consumer demand for inclusive sizing, enhanced comfort and greater functionality. It also can be used for multiple clothing categories, including athleisure and activewear, intimates, denim, performance swimwear, socks and more.
“Brands and retailers will appreciate the unique benefits of LYCRA® ADAPTIV BLACK fiber,” said Stewart. “By enabling inclusive sizing and fit forgiveness, this new fiber has the potential to help reduce costly consumer returns—especially from online shopping. It also makes it possible to undercut patterns to help reduce waste, simplify sizing and decrease stock.”
To learn more about Lycra’s Adaptiv fiber click here.
