INVISTA, owner of the LYCRA(R) fiber brand, set new textile technology standards in high-performance active wear and outdoor apparel standards when it initially launched its LYCRA(R) SPORT fabric certification program two years ago. The company is now using this product of many years of textile expertise and innovations as a basis for expansion, and is introducing two additional tiers of performance standards focused specifically on the fast-growing compression and shaping categories within sports apparel categories: LYCRA(R) SPORT ENERGY fabric and LYCRA(R) SPORT BEAUTY fabric. INVISTA will be exhibiting at two tradeshows in late January – one at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market in North America and the other at ISPO Munich where the new tiers will be launched.
INVISTA is one of the world’s largest integrated producers of polymers and fibers, primarily for nylon, spandex and polyester applications. Its global businesses deliver exceptional value for customers through technology innovations, market insights and a powerful portfolio of global trademarks, including COOLMAX(R) fabric, CORDURA(R) fabric, freshFX (R) fiber, LYCRA(R) fiber, SUPPLEX(R) fabric, TACTEL(R) fiber, and THERMOLITE(R) fabric.
The LYCRA(R) SPORT fabric platform combines the stretch fiber technology and the demanding fabric performance requirements designed specifically for sports and outdoor apparel. The program was originally developed in response to feedback from athletes and active people who expect freedom of movement and fit and shape retention in their athletic apparel – the same benefits that they also associate with the LYCRA(R) fiber brand. As a result, purchase interest for garments with LYCRA(R) SPORT fabric reach 60 per cent in consumer surveys.
“We are very excited to be moving the LYCRA(R) SPORT fabric brand forward with new tiers that have clearly defined performance standards for the growing active and athletic audience that is looking for well-made garments, with excellent fit and freedom of movement,” said David Capdevila, INVISTA Apparel’s global marketing director for active and outerwear. “We are confident that both the industry and end-consumers, both men and women, will find our tiers are the solution they are looking for to fill the gap in the market.”
The new performance standards that make up the new tiers, built from the original LYCRA(R) SPORT fabric platform, were developed in recognition of the more unique requirements of the compression and shapewear sub-categories. The new three differentiated tiers of LYCRA(R) SPORT fabric are:
LYCRA(R) SPORT fabric: The current performance standards enabling fabrics to maintain their original properties for longer, and delivering freedom of movement, bi-directional stretch, comfort and long-lasting fit. New to this tier is the qualification of natural fibers in fabrics meeting the required performance standards. All existing LYCRA(R) SPORT fabrics will qualify for this tier.
LYCRA(R) SPORT ENERGY fabric: The new performance standards designed specifically for compression fabrics used in high intensity and high energy sports, maintaining the right balance between fabric compression power, freedom of movement and outstanding comfort. LYCRA(R) SPORT ENERGY fabric enables the creation of high performance compression garments.
LYCRA(R) SPORT BEAUTY fabric: The new performance standards designed specifically for sports apparel where shaping performance meets beauty and style. This tier helps to improve the shaping impact of fabrics while maintaining the freedom of movement and comfort required in sporting activities. LYCRA(R) SPORT BEAUTY fabrics: looking in shape while getting in shape(TM).
Hangtags for all three tiers will be available for garments made with LYCRA(R) SPORT fabric and that meet the demanding standards of each category.