What are the differences between Elastane, Spandex and Lyrca?

Elastane & Spandex

Elastane and Spandex are interchangeable words meaning the same thing. Around the world this fabric is known as Elastane, but in the USA it’s known as Spandex.

What is Lycra ?

LYCRA® is a ‘trademarked’ brand name of synthetic elastane fibre.

Other well known brand names who have managed to get their brand known as the product itself include:

Speedo (Swimwear)
Kleenex (Tissues)
Band aid (Adhesive Bandage)
Panadol (Paracetamol)
Roller Blades (Inline skates)

The list goes on and on…

Items made of Elastane (such as adult ballet leotards) can be machine washed (cold or warm water) in a garment bag and dried at low temperatures, although, we suggest hand washing and drying your Aplomb Dancewear in the shade for an extended life. Leaving dancewear in the sun and the heat starts to turn Elastane yellow.

Elastane fibres are frequently covered with other fibres such as polyester, as is Aplomb Dancewear.

Using cotton mixed with Elastane creates a heavier fabric that holds on to moisture and odour, and takes much longer to dry which is why we chose our main dancewear fabric with a make-up of 20% Elastane, 80% Polyester. Polyester has become one of the most effective fabrics for quick drying making it perfect for high intensity activities like dance.

At Aplomb we use a higher percentage of Elastane than other dancewear companies, which gives our dancewear its soft and silky feel.

Fabric composition

“In textiles the synthetic fibre known as Elastane is composed of at least 85 percent polyurethane by weight. Such fibres are generally used for their highly elastic properties. Trademarked fibres in this group are Lycra, Numa, Spandelle, and Vyrene. Such fibres have, for many textile purposes, mostly replaced natural and synthetic rubber fibres”. (Source: Britannica.com)

Why do dancers wear Elastane? 5 good reasons explained!

1. Flexibility and Range of Motion:

Elastane, spandex and Lycra fabric provide excellent stretch, allowing dancers to move freely and perform complex movements without feeling restricted. For example, full body garments like male unitards require a stretchable fabric to allow for a full range of movement, and Elastane is perfect at achieving this. It enables flexibility, crucial for executing various dance moves.

2. Comfort and Fit:

Elastane fabric moulds to the body like a ‘second skin’, offering a snug and comfortable fit. This ensures that the dancer's attire stays in place during vigorous movements, preventing wardrobe malfunctions and allowing them to focus on their performance.

3. Breathability and Moisture Control:

Many elastane-blend fabrics are designed to wick away moisture and promote breathability, keeping dancers cool and dry during intense routines. This feature is particularly essential in physically demanding dance styles.

4. Durability and Resilience:

Allowing dancewear garments to maintain their shape and elasticity even after repeated wear and washing, Elastane adds durability and resilience. This is crucial for dance outfits which undergo frequent stretching and intense movement.

5. Aesthetic Appeal:

Elastane blends contribute to the sleek and stylish appearance of dance attire. The fabric's ability to conform to the body's contours enhances the visual aesthetics of dancewear, emphasising lines and movements for a polished look.

“Although somewhat weak in the relaxed state, Elastane fibres can be stretched about 500–610 percent beyond their original length without breaking and quickly return to their original length and shape. Elastane is lightweight and cool; it’s also resistant to deterioration from body acids; and it is easily cleaned and quick-drying”. (Source: Britannica.com)

In Summary

Elastane, Spandex, and Lycra are essentially the same thing. The terms Elastane and Spandex are interchangeable worldwide; the only difference lies in their regional naming conventions. Lycra, on the other hand, is a brand name for a specific type of synthetic elastane fibre.

Various well-known brands have achieved such recognition that their brand name is now synonymous with the product itself, like Kleenex for tissues or Band-Aid for adhesive bandages.

Elastane is prized for its elasticity, allowing for exceptional stretch without losing shape. It's often combined with other materials like polyester, which enhances durability and quick drying, making it ideal for high-intensity activities like dance. Aplomb Dancewear uses a higher Elastane percentage, providing a soft, silky texture.

Dancers opt for Elastane-based fabrics for reasons like flexibility, comfort, moisture control, durability, and the fabric's aesthetic appeal, as it molds well to the body and accentuates movements, crucial in dance performances.

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