The LYCRA Company unveils eco-friendly fiber for high-performance knits

The LYCRA Company, a global leader in developing innovative and sustainable fiber solutions for apparel, announced the launch of LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber for knits. This new offering is designed to enhance the performance and comfort of knitted fabrics.

LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber is a bicomponent fiber made from 60% recycled PET and 14.4% from bio-derived resources. It is GRS certified, delivering a durable soft hand-feel, low shrinkage, and high uniformity to fabrics. The fiber consists of two different polyester polymers that create a helical crimp, providing permanent stretch and recovery properties. Additionally, it offers breathability, cooling comfort, and chlorine resistance to fabrics.

LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber plays a role in promoting circularity, a priority for The LYCRA Company. In controlled tests, the fiber was recycled back into new polyester fibers, showcasing the technical feasibility of this process.

Steve Stewart, Chief Brand and Innovation Officer at The LYCRA Company, stated that LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber addresses the demand for performance benefits and sustainability. The fiber aligns with customer and consumer expectations by using recycled and bio-derived materials.

Fabrics and garments powered by LYCRA® FiT400™ fiber can receive LYCRA® XTRA LIFE™ or COOLMAX® EcoMade brand hangtags if they meet specific quality standards. Both brands are widely recognized globally for their consumer brand awareness.