Long recognized for its resilience to degradation from UV light, chlorine and sunscreen– helping swimwear keep its shape and integrity longer – Lycra Xtra Life fibre is now taking a bold step forward. Thanks to a new shift in its production process, the fiber is now available in a bio-derived version, crafted from renewable, annually sourced, non-food corn-based materials.

The bio-based variant – Lycra EcoMade – is described by the company as the first commercially available elastane made from renewable sources on a large scale. It delivers equivalent performance to the original Lycra fiber, without sacrificing the trusted durability. It serves as a one-to-one replacement with no re-engineering of fabrics, processes, or garment patterns required. The product contains 70 % renewable content and can potentially reduce the carbon footprint of Lycra fiber by up to 44 %*. The Lycra Company holds patents related to this renewable fiber in several regions including Europe.

“Comfort, durability and performance are key when it comes to Swimwear – with no compromise between aesthetics and durability. Since its market launch Lycra Xtra Life fiber with its additional performance advantages have earned the ‘pool’ position in the swimwear segment. With the bio-derived version we are once again revolutionizing the swimwear segment with next generation swimwear which combines performance benefits with environmental friendly materials”, says Alistair Williamson, Vice President EMEA and South Asia, The Lycra Company.

Vita Life by Carvico: Performance meets conscious innovation

Italian textile mill Carvico has also developed a new swimwear fabric line using the bio-based Lycra fiber. The line, called Vita Life, is the first commercial swimwear fabric to incorporate this innovation. “We are extremely proud to be the first swimwear fabric mill to launch a commercial line using Lycra fiber with bio-derived content,” said Evalda Carissimi – General Manager of Carvico SpA. “With Vita Life, we’re proving that innovation and responsibility can go hand in hand. It’s a fabric that embodies our ongoing mission to offer sustainable performance to brands and consumers alike.”

The Lycra Company at Milano Unica: Hall 4, MarediModa area

*Estimate from Cradle-to-Gate Screening LCA for a representative Lycra fiber manufacturing facility, June 2022, prepared by Ramboll Americas Engineering Solutions, Inc.