Which is better: elastane or spandex?

Synthetic fibers, obtained from polymers back in the last century, have found application in textile production. In their pure form they are practically not used, but are added to so-called mixed fabrics. On clothing labels you can often see components such as elastan and spandex in the material composition. Which one is better? Let's figure it out.

Elastane vs spandex: what to choose?

Before answering this question, you need to know:

• how materials differ from each other;
• what do they have in common?

Meaning of terms

Each word has its own roots and interpretation. For example:

1. The name "elastane" comes from the Latin elasticus, which means "elastic, flexible."
2. The concept of "spandex" - derived from the English exspand ("stretch") - arose as a result of rearrangement of syllables.

This is where all the differences end. Even the translation of two words that sound different indicates the same nature.

History of invention

Elastic material appeared in the late 50s of the XX century.The “culprit” of the discovery was chemist Joseph Shivers, an employee of the American company DuPont Textiles. Trying to create a replacement for rubber, he obtained a fiber consisting of numerous polymer threads of two types. Some are long and shapeless, others are short and hard. When they are intertwined, a fabric with exclusive properties is formed.

Main consumer characteristics

The material in which spandex is present is different:

• elasticity: can stretch 8 times;
• elasticity: after expansion it returns to its original shape;
• lightness and breathability (thin fabrics);
• strength and wear resistance;
• resistance to moisture and high temperatures;
• low maintenance: does not wrinkle or deform.

In addition, it is easy to paint and practically does not fade during use.

By the way! Elastane can be two-dimensional or four-dimensional. The first one stretches only in width or length, the second - in both directions.

What is sewn from stretch fabrics?

Depending on the density, they are made from:

1. Sportswear, such as fitness leggings, cycling shorts, figure skating suits.
2. Extreme equipment such as diving equipment.
3. Underwear and thermal underwear, swimsuits.
4. Haberdashery goods: gloves, tights, socks.

Thanks to their special properties, modern synthetic additives make it possible to improve the performance characteristics of natural fabric. Therefore, they can often be found in the composition:

• trousers, including denim;
• skirts and dresses;
• turtlenecks and jumpers;
• outerwear.

What to prefer?

It is impossible to choose the best among equals, so friendship wins. Both spandex and elastan in the composition of any thing mean only one thing: it is stretch. In other words, if necessary, it can stretch and then return to its original shape. And words are just trade names patented by various manufacturers. For example, the term spandex is popular in the USA and Canada, and elastane is popular in Europe and the rest of the world. In addition, there are other names for polyurethane fibers, such as:

• lycra;
• elastane;
• Dorlastan;
• lynel.

They can also be found on the tags of clothing and accessories from both large global brands and small young companies.

Spandex, elastane, lycra are associated primarily with practicality, aesthetics and convenience. However, clothes with their presence must be chosen wisely and used for their intended purpose. Then it will not only be beautiful and comfortable, but also safe. And which of these names will be present on the tag does not matter.