Spandex (Lycra/Elastane)
Spandex is a synthetic fiber known for exceptional elasticity—it can stretch 5-8 times its original length and snap back. In hosiery, spandex is blended with nylon to provide stretch, recovery, and improved fit. Lycra and elastane are brand/regional names for the same fiber.
Names for Spandex
| Term | Usage |
|---|---|
| Spandex | North America (from "expands") |
| Elastane | Europe, rest of world (generic name) |
| Lycra® | DuPont brand name (now Invista) |
All three refer to the same polyurethane-based elastic fiber.
Spandex in Hosiery
Almost all modern hosiery contains spandex. It provides:
- Stretch: Hosiery stretches to fit various body sizes
- Recovery: Returns to original shape after wearing
- Fit: Hugs the leg without sagging
- Durability: Resists bagging at knees and ankles
- Comfort: Moves with the body
Spandex Content
The percentage of spandex affects hosiery characteristics:
| Content | Effect | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 2-5% | Light stretch, natural feel | Sheer pantyhose, everyday wear |
| 5-10% | Good stretch and recovery | Standard pantyhose, tights |
| 10-15% | Strong compression, firm fit | Control top, shaping |
| 15-20% | High compression | Compression hosiery, support |
| 20%+ | Maximum compression | Medical compression |
History
Spandex was invented in 1958 by DuPont chemist Joseph Shivers. DuPont branded it "Lycra" and it revolutionized fashion:
- 1960s: First used in underwear and hosiery
- 1970s: Spread to swimwear and sportswear
- 1980s: Became standard in activewear, pantyhose
- Today: Present in virtually all stretch clothing
How Spandex Works
Spandex is made from polyurethane. Its molecular structure allows the fiber to stretch dramatically:
- Long-chain polymer molecules can unfold when pulled
- When released, they coil back to original position
- This stretch-recovery happens thousands of times without degradation
Spandex Care
While spandex is durable, it can be damaged by:
- Heat: Avoid hot water, hot dryers—damages elasticity
- Chlorine: Pool water degrades spandex over time
- Oils: Body oils, lotions can break down fiber
- Age: Spandex naturally degrades—old hosiery loses stretch
For longest life: wash cool, air dry, avoid fabric softener.
Spandex vs. Rubber
Before spandex, elastic properties came from rubber. Spandex advantages:
- Lighter weight (same stretch with less material)
- Doesn't degrade from sweat, lotions, oils as quickly
- Can be dyed any color (rubber yellows)
- Can be made very fine for sheer fabrics
- More durable over time
Label Note
On hosiery labels, look for "nylon with spandex" or specific percentages like "85% nylon, 15% spandex." Higher spandex = more compression. Pantyhose without spandex would sag and bag.