Swimwear brand Arena is introducing its first collection made with Lycra EcoMade fibre, which is produced using 70% renewable, plant-based raw materials. The primary feedstock for the fibre is industrial corn, offering a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-based materials.

Designed for swimwear applications, Lycra EcoMade delivers the same performance as conventional Lycra while providing resistance to sunscreen, chlorine, and ultraviolet (UV) exposure. The collection features Vitalife fabric in a range of colours, from soft pastels to deeper shades such as rust red.

Peter Graschi, CEO of Arena, said many of the company’s products already incorporate recycled nylon and polyester fibres, and the partnership with The Lycra Company represents another step towards greater sustainability. He added that using bio-based elastane sourced from renewable materials helps reduce dependence on virgin fossil resources without affecting product quality or performance.