Nylon Elastane Fabric
Nylon and elastane—also known as spandex or Lycra—is the fabric combination that powers the activewear industry. If you have ever worn a pair of leggings that actually stay put during a workout, or a swimsuit that does not bag out after a few wears, you have experienced what this blend can do.
Our Nylon Elastane Fabric combines the strength and abrasion resistance of nylon with the exceptional elasticity of elastane. The result is a fabric that stretches, recovers, and holds its shape—wash after wash, stretch after stretch.
Description
Technical Parameters
120-230GSM / 120-166cm / Premium Stretch Performance Fabric for Activewear & Swimwear
Nylon and elastane-also known as spandex or Lycra-is the fabric combination that powers the activewear industry. If you have ever worn a pair of leggings that actually stay put during a workout, or a swimsuit that does not bag out after a few wears, you have experienced what this blend can do.
Our Nylon Elastane Fabric combines the strength and abrasion resistance of nylon with the exceptional elasticity of elastane. The result is a fabric that stretches, recovers, and holds its shape-wash after wash, stretch after stretch.
Weight ranges from 120 GSM for lightweight apparel up to 230 GSM for more supportive garments. Width typically sits at 120-166 cm, customisable. The elastane content can be adjusted from 12% to 46% depending on your application-more elastane for higher stretch and recovery; less for more stability.
One of the standout features of nylon-elastane is its exceptional stretch and recovery. Fabrics with 20-34% elastane content offer 4-way stretch (horizontal and vertical), allowing for full range of motion while maintaining a supportive, close fit . Unlike polyester-spandex, nylon-elastane has a naturally softer, silkier hand-feel that makes it particularly desirable for garments worn directly against the skin.
|
Attribute |
Detail |
|
Product Name |
Nylon Elastane Fabric |
|
Composition |
54-88% Nylon / 12-46% Elastane (customizable) |
|
Weight |
120 – 230 GSM |
|
Width |
120 – 166 cm / 47″ – 65″ (customizable) |
|
Construction |
Knitted (Jersey / Interlock / Micro) or Woven (Plain Weave) |
|
Stretch |
4-way stretch with excellent recovery |
|
Surface |
Smooth, soft, silky hand-feel |
|
Abrasion Resistance |
High – nylon is naturally strong and resistant to wear |
|
Moisture Management |
Wicking – pulls sweat away from the skin |
|
Drying Speed |
Quick-drying |
|
Colour Fastness |
Good – nylon accepts dyes well |
|
Applications |
Activewear, sportswear, swimwear, leggings, yoga pants, sports bras, dancewear, compression garments, intimates, shapewear |
|
Certifications |
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 available |
|
MOQ |
500 – 1,000 meters per colour |
|
Delivery |
15-25 working days after deposit |
|
Packing |
Roll with paper tube, PE bag, PP woven bag |
|
Port |
Shanghai / Ningbo / Guangzhou |
What Makes Nylon Elastane Different
Let me walk you through why nylon-elastane is the go-to for performance apparel-and how it differs from polyester-spandex.
● Nylon vs. Polyester – the key difference in hand-feel.
Both nylon and polyester are synthetics, but they feel different against the skin. Nylon has a naturally softer, silkier, more luxurious hand-feel. It is smoother and more comfortable for garments worn directly against the skin-leggings, sports bras, swimwear, and intimates. Polyester, by contrast, can feel more "plastic-like" unless it is micro-denier or specially finished. This is why premium activewear brands often choose nylon-elastane over polyester-spandex for close-to-skin garments.
● Exceptional stretch and recovery.
Elastane-whether you call it spandex or Lycra-is the most elastic synthetic fibre available . It can stretch several times its original length and return to its original shape without deformation. In nylon-elastane blends, the elastane content typically ranges from 12% to 46% . Higher elastane content means greater stretch and better recovery-critical for compression garments, sports bras, and swimwear that need to maintain their fit over time.
● Durability you can count on.
Nylon is naturally strong and abrasion-resistant . It withstands frequent movement, rubbing, and repeated washing without losing its integrity. This is why nylon-elastane is the preferred choice for activewear that sees heavy use-leggings that do not wear thin at the knees, sports bras that do not lose their support, swimwear that does not fade or stretch out.
● Moisture wicking and quick drying.
Nylon fibres wick moisture away from the skin and spread it across the fabric surface for quick evaporation. This keeps the wearer dry and comfortable during exercise. The fabric also dries faster than cotton, making it practical for travel and frequent washing.
● Breathability through construction.
The knit or weave structure determines breathability. Jersey and interlock knits offer good airflow, while micro-fibre versions can be engineered with targeted ventilation . Lighter weights (120-160 GSM) are more breathable and suitable for hot yoga or summer running. Heavier weights (200-230 GSM) offer more support and are better for cooler conditions or compression wear.
● What our customers are using it for.
○ Activewear brands: Leggings, yoga pants, sports bras, running tops-the stretch and recovery make these garments functional, and the soft hand-feel makes them comfortable.
○ Swimwear makers: Swimsuits and bikinis-nylon-elastane holds its shape in water and resists chlorine damage.
○ Dancewear brands: Leotards and performance costumes-the 4-way stretch allows for full range of motion.
○ Intimates and shapewear: The close fit and support are ideal for these applications.
Blend Ratio & Application Guide
|
Nylon % |
Elastane % |
Stretch |
Best For |
|
86-88% |
12-14% |
Moderate stretch, good recovery |
Lightweight apparel, dresses, casual wear |
|
72-78% |
22-28% |
High stretch, excellent recovery |
Activewear, sportswear, leggings, swimwear |
|
66-70% |
30-34% |
Very high stretch, superior recovery |
Compression wear, high-performance activewear, shapewear |
|
54-60% |
40-46% |
Maximum stretch, highest recovery |
Intimates, shapewear, high-compression garments |
Production & Ordering Details
● Custom blend ratio.
We can adjust the nylon/elastane ratio from 54/46 to 88/12 depending on your application. Higher elastane = more stretch and recovery; higher nylon = more stability and durability.
● Custom weight.
Standard is 120-230 GSM. We can adjust within this range based on your requirements.
● Custom width.
Width can be adjusted if your cutting patterns require it.
● Finishes.
Anti-pilling, wicking, anti-bacterial, and UV-protection finishes available.
● Certifications.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 available.
● MOQ.
500-1,000 metres per colour. We can sometimes accept smaller quantities for stock colours – ask us.
● Lead time.
15-25 working days from deposit confirmation.
● Packing.
Rolls with paper tube inside, PE bag and PP woven bag outside.
Sampling Policy
● Standard samples (stock colours).
A4-size cuttings are free – you pay shipping. If you have a FedEx/DHL/TNT account, we ship using your account and you pay nothing.
● Custom colour samples.
Sample fee applies – covers dye setup. Deducted from your final order if you proceed.
FAQ
Q1: What is the difference between nylon elastane and polyester spandex?
A1: Both are stretch fabrics, but nylon-elastane has a softer, silkier hand-feel against the skin . Nylon is also more abrasion-resistant and holds its shape better over time . Polyester-spandex is more common in budget activewear; nylon-elastane is the premium choice for close-to-skin garments.
Q2: How much stretch does nylon elastane fabric have?
A2: It depends on the elastane content. For blends with 20-34% elastane, you get approximately 20-40% 4-way stretch with excellent recovery . The stretch is permanent because the elastane is part of the yarn structure.
Q3: Is this fabric suitable for swimwear?
A3: Yes, absolutely. Nylon-elastane is one of the most common swimwear fabrics because it holds its shape in water, resists chlorine damage, and dries quickly . It also has excellent colour fastness, so the colours stay vibrant even with repeated exposure to salt water or chlorine.
Q4: Is the fabric durable?
A4: Yes. Nylon is naturally strong and abrasion-resistant . It withstands frequent movement, rubbing, and repeated washing without losing its integrity . This is why nylon-elastane is preferred for activewear that sees heavy use.
Q5: Does the fabric pill?
A5: No. The nylon-elastane blend is engineered to resist pilling, tearing, and bagging at the knees, elbows, or seat . The smooth surface and tight construction help keep the fabric looking new.
Q6: Is the fabric breathable?
A6: Yes. The knit structure allows for airflow, and the nylon fibres wick moisture away from the skin . Lighter weights (120-160 GSM) offer more breathability; heavier weights (200+ GSM) offer more support and warmth.
Q7: Can I get a physical colour card?
A7: Yes – and I recommend it. Screens cannot show the true softness, sheen, and drape of nylon-elastane accurately. We keep swatch rings for our stock colours. Free to request – you cover shipping.
Q8: How should I care for this fabric?
A8: Machine wash cold (30°C), gentle cycle, with mild detergent. Do not use bleach. Do not use fabric softener – it can coat the fibres and affect moisture-wicking performance. Tumble dry low or hang dry. Iron on the reverse side with a cool iron. Avoid high heat to protect the elastane.
fect moisture-wicking performance. Tumble dry low or hang dry. Iron on the reverse side with a cool iron.
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