The LYCRA® brand, globally recognized for its innovation in stretch and comfort, is taking bold steps to lead the future of sustainable fashion. Since its introduction in 1958, LYCRA® fiber has transformed the textile industry, making garments more comfortable, flexible, and durable. Today, the brand is combining its legacy of innovation with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility.
Owned by The LYCRA Company, headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, the brand offers a wide portfolio of fibers including LYCRA®, COOLMAX®, THERMOLITE®, and T400®. These performance fibers are widely used across apparel categories like activewear, denim, lingerie, swimwear, and hosiery. But in an era increasingly shaped by sustainability, the company has taken a forward-thinking approach.
A centerpiece of this effort is LYCRA® t400 EcoMade fiber, made from recycled materials, which offers the same high-quality stretch and recovery as traditional LYCRA® fiber. Additionally, the company has introduced **LYCRA® XTRA LIFE™**, which extends the lifespan of swimwear, helping to reduce waste. These developments fall under their broader Planet Agenda platform, which outlines their long-term goals for responsible sourcing, waste reduction, and carbon footprint minimization.
“We believe in transparency and think it’s important to have a clear sustainability roadmap to guide our business into the future—a bold plan that fully supports our customers and stakeholders,” said Julien Born, chief executive officer of The LYCRA Company. “In support of this plan, we have signed the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) Call-to-Action Commitment Letter, a testament to our company’s focus on lowering emissions and environmental impact. I’m proud of our teams’ work to advance our sustainability efforts and develop our 2030 goals as we work toward our 2050 net zero commitment.”
The LYCRA Company is also leveraging technology through its LYCRA ONE™ online marketplace. This digital platform connects mills, brands, and garment makers, providing them with access to certified fabrics and innovative solutions. It supports the fashion industry’s shift toward greater transparency and traceability.
Globally, the LYCRA® brand is also collaborating with fashion designers, manufacturers, and retailers including HeiQ, Brownzwear, Qira to co-develop collections that blend functionality with sustainability. These partnerships ensure that LYCRA® remains relevant in a rapidly changing market driven by conscious consumerism and digital innovation.
As the textile industry continues to evolve, LYCRA® stands out not just as a fiber, but as a force for change. Its ongoing commitment to comfort, performance, and sustainability is helping shape a future where fashion doesn’t have to compromise between style and responsibility.
