The presence of elastane in sports clothing promotes athletes' freedom of movement due to its ability to stretch up to 500% of its original length, allowing the clothing to adapt to the body's movements without restricting mobility.
Elastane has an exceptional elasticity that can stretch several times its original length without deforming. As it is highly stretchable, this fabric naturally follows the body's movements. As a result, athletes are free to move without being hindered by their clothing. With its ability to stretch and easily regain its original shape, elastane ensures good joint mobility, even in sports that require ultra wide or rapid movements, such as gymnastics or yoga. It closely hugs the body's contours (second skin effect) without creating uncomfortable pressure points. Practical, breathable, and lightweight, it keeps the athlete comfortable and effectively supports their movements.
When garments contain elastane, they are able to follow the body's movements without hindering or compressing. This allows athletes to feel more comfortable, with a clear sensation of lightness. This freedom of movement provides the possibility to perform precise technical gestures without restriction of mobility. In practice, this translates into better muscle and joint comfort, and therefore into improved performance, especially for sports that require a wide range of motion such as gymnastics, dance, or yoga. The elasticity and flexibility inherent in elastane also limit unpleasant friction and irritation thanks to an optimal fit, even during intense and repetitive activities. Finally, this material handles sweat well, dries quickly, and prevents the unpleasant feeling of clingy clothing.
Sportswear without elastane generally uses classic fabrics like cotton or pure polyester. These often have less flexibility and stretchability, making movements more limited and sometimes uncomfortable for the athlete in certain complex postures or stretches. Unlike garments containing elastane, which naturally conform to the body's movements, non-stretch fabrics risk pulling or constricting in certain areas, creating discomfort or limiting the range of motion. Additionally, these traditional fabrics tend to deform more easily under tension or after repeated use, thus reducing their comfort and durability over the long term.
Elastane makes clothes more durable against repeated wear and intense workouts. Being very elastic, it prevents the garment from losing its original shape after multiple stretches or repeated washings. The result: you can keep a comfortable garment for a long time without it becoming too loose or misshapen. This fabric also has the advantage of resisting sweat and frequent friction well, limiting signs of premature aging or small tears. Less fragile than some classic sports fabrics, a garment with elastane also better withstands minor snags and generally maintains its elasticity over time, which ultimately saves you money by reducing the frequency of buying new clothes.
The presence of spandex in sportswear helps to slightly compress the muscles, thereby facilitating blood circulation and reducing muscle fatigue during prolonged workouts.
Invented in 1958, elastane (also known as Spandex or Lycra) initially stemmed from research aimed at creating a more comfortable and adaptable substitute for rubber.
Some technical sportswear today combines elastane and recycled fibers to reduce its environmental impact while maintaining the flexibility needed for optimal freedom of movement.
The elastane helps keep the garment fitted to the body, which allows for better moisture wicking, thereby reducing the risk of skin irritation during exercise.
The ideal percentage of elastane depends on the type of sport being practiced and the desired level of flexibility. Generally, a proportion between 5% and 20% is common and sufficient to ensure optimal freedom of movement and good support.
Sure! Here’s the translation: "Yes, a slight loss of elasticity is possible over time and with repeated washings. However, by adopting proper care (washing at moderate temperatures, air drying), it is possible to significantly extend the lifespan of these textiles."
Yes, the presence of elastane provides increased elasticity that pure cotton does not have. This enhances the fabric's flexibility, reduces friction, and offers a comfortable and fitted feel that is particularly appreciated during sports.
Generally, elastane is well tolerated by the skin, but some individual sensitivities may exist. It is advisable to choose clothing with a comfort and quality label to minimize any risk of skin reactions.
It is recommended to follow the specific instructions indicated on the clothing label. Generally, opting for machine washing at low temperatures (max 30°C or 40°C), avoiding the use of a tumble dryer, and allowing the garments to air dry helps to preserve the durability and elasticity of elastane.
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