7 High-Performance Stretch Fabrics Every Activewear Brand Should Know — A B2B Sourcing Guide to Cooling, UPF Protection, Compression & Eco Innovation
7 High-Performance Stretch Fabrics Every Activewear Brand Should Know — A B2B Sourcing Guide to Cooling, UPF Protection, Compression & Eco Innovation
Why Fabric Technology Decides Who Wins in Activewear
Today's athletic consumer does not buy a legging because it looks good — they buy it because it stays cool through a hot yoga class, holds its shape after fifty washes, and does not turn see-through during a deep squat. These experiences are not accidents of design; they are engineered into the fiber itself.
As a stretch fabric specialist serving brands across yoga, swimwear, gymnastics, and lifestyle athletic, Faybric has curated a portfolio of eight fabrics that cover the full spectrum of performance demands. This guide walks through four volume-driving workhorses and four innovation-led specialty textiles — with real SKU numbers, composition breakdowns, and the procurement logic behind each one.
Understanding Performance Stretch Fabrics: Beyond "Four-Way Stretch"
A true performance fabric is built on three layers: the fiber chemistry, the knit structure, and the finishing treatment. When buyers only ask "does it stretch?" they miss the variables that determine whether a garment feels premium or disposable.
Six Performance Dimensions Buyers Should Specify
| Dimension | What It Means for the Garment | ||
| Thermal Regulation | Cooling on contact or heat retention — controls perceived skin temperature | ||
| UV Barrier | UPF rating determines how much UVA/UVB reaches the skin during outdoor wear | ||
| Elastic Recovery | How well the fabric snaps back after stretching — prevents bagging and shape loss | ||
Odor Control | Antibacterial treatment inhibits the bacteria that cause sweat odor | ||
Moisture Management | Wicking speed + evaporation rate — determines whether the garment clings or breathes | ||
Chemical Resistance | Chlorine and saltwater durability — critical for swimwear longevity |
The Durability Question: Built-In vs. Coated-On
| Approach | Engineering Method | Longevity | |
| Intrinsic (Fiber-Level) | Performance particles or modified polymer structure added before the fiber is spun | Permanent — survives 100+ washes because the function is part of the fiber itself | |
| Extrinsic (Finish-Level) | Chemical coating sprayed or padded onto the fabric surface after knitting | Temporary — typically degrades after 15–25 washes; common in low-cost imports | |
Sourcing takeaway: Always request the test report and ask whether each listed function is intrinsic or extrinsic. A $2 per-yard fabric with three coating-level functions is not a premium product — it is a commodity with a short shelf life.
The Workhorses: Four Fabrics That Drive Volume
1. Textured Stretch Mesh — The Breathable Activewear & Intimate Wear Standard
| Specification | Detail | ||
| Item Code | A751 | ||
| Fiber Blend | 84% Nylon + 16% Elastane | ||
| GSM × Width | 170g/m²×152cm |
A751 is a high-performance warp-knit fabric engineered for modern activewear and intimate apparel. Blending 84% Nylon with 16% Elastane, it delivers exceptional four-way stretch, rapid recovery, and a buttery-soft hand feel that moves with the body. At 170 g/m² with a usable width of 152 cm (60 inches), this mid-lightweight fabric strikes the ideal balance between breathability, support, and opacity — making it a versatile staple for brands targeting fitness, swim, and lifestyle categories.
Reasons Brands Keep Repurchasing A751
1. Consistent Quality, Batch After Batch Our in-house dyeing and quality control ensure uniform color depth, stretch performance, and weight tolerance across every roll — so your production line never encounters unexpected variances.
2. Factory-Direct Pricing with No Middlemen As a vertically integrated textile manufacturer, Jdttex offers competitive wholesale pricing without compromising on yarn quality or finishing standards, helping you protect margin at scale.
3. Reliable Lead Times & Bulk Capacity With dedicated production lines and ample stock capacity, we support both sample-level development and large-volume orders with dependable turnaround times you can plan around.
4. Customization & Color Matching Service Need a custom shade, moisture-wicking finish, or anti-pilling treatment? A751 is fully customizable to your brand specs, with Pantone-matched color development to keep your line distinctive.
Ideal Applications for A751
1. Activewear Bottoms The 16% elastane content provides superior stretch and shape retention, while the 170 gsm weight offers full coverage and a squat-proof finish — perfect for high-waisted leggings and compression tights.
2. Sports Bras & Fitness Tops Soft against the skin with excellent rebound, A751 maintains support through repeated movement and washing, making it ideal for medium-to-high impact sports bras, tank tops, and crop tops.
3. Swimwear & Beachwear Nylon's natural chlorine and saltwater resistance, combined with elastane's stretch, makes this fabric a strong candidate for one-piece swimsuits, bikinis, and resort-wear cover-ups.
4. Shapewear & Loungewear The smooth matte surface and body-hugging elasticity lend themselves to shaping shorts, camisoles, and everyday loungewear sets that prioritize comfort without sacrificing structure.
2. Sustainable Recycled Nylon Fabric — The High-Stretch Comfort Standard for Active Lifestyle
2. Sustainable Recycled Nylon Fabric — The High-Stretch Comfort Standard for Active Lifestyle
| Specification | Detail | ||
| Item Code | ZS618-40G | ||
| Fiber Blend | 85% Recycled Nylon + 15% Elastane | ||
| GSM × Width | 200g/m² × 150cm |
ZS618-40G by Faybric is a premium eco-conscious performance fabric crafted from 85% Recycled Nylon and 15% Elastane. Designed for brands committed to sustainability without compromising on function, this mid-weight 200 g/m² fabric delivers robust four-way stretch, excellent shape retention, and a smooth, luxurious hand feel. With a usable width of 150 cm (59 inches), it offers outstanding yield and versatility across activewear, swimwear, and lifestyle collections.
Backed by a suite of globally recognized certifications — including OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, Global Recycled Standard (GRS), Higg Index, and TextileExchange — ZS618-40G gives your brand full traceability and a credible sustainability story to share with eco-conscious consumers.
Reasons Brands Keep Repurchasing ZS618-40G
1. Verified Sustainability with Full Traceability Every roll is GRS-certified and traceable through TextileGenesis, giving your brand auditable proof of recycled content — a powerful selling point for eco-driven retailers and consumers.
2. Durable Performance That Lasts Wash After Wash The 200 gsm weight and high elastane content ensure exceptional recovery, resistance to pilling, and long-lasting shape retention, reducing return rates and building customer loyalty.
3. Factory-Direct Pricing with Certified Quality As a vertically integrated manufacturer, Faybric combines competitive wholesale pricing with strict OEKO-TEX® compliant quality control — so you get premium eco-fabric without the premium markup.
4. Custom Color & Finish Development From Pantone-matched dyeing to specialized finishes (moisture-wicking, anti-chlorine, UV protection), ZS618-40G is fully customizable to your brand's unique specifications and seasonal palette.
Ideal Applications for ZS618-40G
1. Sustainable Yoga Leggings & Activewear The 200 gsm weight provides full, squat-proof coverage, while the recycled nylon-elastane blend offers superior stretch and rebound — perfect for high-waisted leggings, compression tights, and eco-friendly activewear lines.
2. Eco Swimwear & Resort Wear Recycled nylon is inherently resistant to chlorine, saltwater, and UV degradation, making ZS618-40G an excellent choice for sustainable one-piece swimsuits, bikinis, and resort collections that prioritize both performance and planet.
3. Sports Bras & Fitness Tops Soft against the skin with excellent elasticity and support, this fabric maintains its shape through high-impact workouts and repeated washing — ideal for medium-to-high support sports bras, racerback tanks, and crop tops.
4. Sustainable Shapewear & Loungewear The smooth matte surface and body-contouring stretch make it well-suited for shaping shorts, bodysuits, and premium loungewear sets that combine everyday comfort with a lower environmental footprint.
3. COOLMAX 4-Function Jersey — Sweat-Free, Quick-Dry, UV-Shield & Contact-Cooling
| Specification | Detail | ||
| Item Code | 79AIR-I0373 | ||
| Fiber Blend | 96% Polyester + 4% Elastane | ||
| GSM × Width | 240 g/m² ×152 cm (60") |
79AIR-I0373 by Faybric is a high-performance cooling fabric engineered for intense workouts and hot-weather comfort. Woven from 96% Polyester with 4% Elastane and powered by Coolmax® technology, this 240 g/m² fabric delivers an immediate cool-to-the-touch sensation, rapid moisture wicking, and reliable four-way stretch. With a usable width of 152 cm (60 inches), it combines generous yield with a structured yet breathable hand feel — ideal for brands seeking performance-driven apparel that keeps wearers dry, cool, and protected.
Key functional benefits include sweat-free moisture management, quick-dry performance, instant cooling touch, and anti-UV protection — with the option to apply the official Coolmax® hangtag for consumer-facing credibility. The fabric is backed by OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, Global Recycled Standard (GRS), Higg Index, and ZDHC Roadmap to Zero certifications.
Reasons Brands Keep Repurchasing 79AIR-I0373
1. Licensed Coolmax® Technology with Consumer Recognition Eligible for the official Coolmax® hangtag, giving your products instant credibility and a recognizable performance claim that resonates with athletes and active consumers worldwide.
2. Multi-Functional Performance in One Fabric Cooling touch, rapid wicking, quick-dry, and UV protection — four high-demand functions in a single material, reducing SKU complexity and letting you build a cohesive performance collection.
3. Certified Sustainable & Chemical-Safe Production Manufactured under GRS, OEKO-TEX® 100, and ZDHC Roadmap to Zero standards, ensuring your brand meets retailer compliance requirements and appeals to eco-conscious buyers.
4. Stable Quality & Custom Color Development Faybric's in-house dyeing and quality control ensure consistent color, weight, and cooling performance across batches, with Pantone-matched custom colors available for seasonal collections.
Ideal Applications for 79AIR-I0373
1. Running & Training Tops The Coolmax® cooling effect and sweat-free wicking make this fabric perfect for short-sleeve running tees, long-sleeve training tops, and base layers designed for high-intensity cardio in warm conditions.
2. Outdoor & Hiking Apparel With anti-UV protection and quick-dry performance, 79AIR-I0373 is ideal for hiking shirts, sun-protection hoodies, and outdoor adventure gear where breathability and sun safety are essential.
3. Golf & Tennis Sportswear The structured 240 gsm weight and smooth matte finish lend themselves to polo shirts, golf quarter-zips, and tennis dresses that require a polished look alongside all-day cooling comfort.
4. Athleisure & Lifestyle T-Shirts Soft, stretchy, and cool against the skin, this fabric elevates everyday t-shirts, hoodies, and loungewear sets — bridging the gap between performance technology and casual, wearable style.
The Innovators: Three Specialty Fabrics for Differentiation
4. Sun-Shield Anti-Sheer Nylon Spandex — The All-in-One Summer Performance Fabric
| Specification | Detail | ||
Item Code | #7AIR-I0472 | ||
Fiber Blend | Anti-transparent Nylon69%+Elastane31% | ||
| GSM × Width | 210 g/m²× 146cm |
#7AIR-I0472 by Jdttex is a multi-functional summer performance fabric engineered to solve the three biggest pain points of warm-weather apparel: sun exposure, clammy sweat, and sheer fabric embarrassment. Woven from 69% anti-transparent nylon with an exceptional 31% elastane content, this fabric delivers built-in UV protection, instant contact cooling, and reliable opacity — all in one lightweight, high-stretch textile.
The UV-blocking property is integrated directly into the yarn at the fiber level (not a surface coating), ensuring long-lasting sun protection that won't wash out. Meanwhile, the high-density anti-sheer weave structure provides superior coverage, so even white and light-colored garments remain non-transparent under direct sunlight. At 210 g/m² with a 146 cm usable width, it balances substantial opacity with breathable comfort, making it the ultimate all-rounder for summer activewear and lifestyle collections.
Reasons Brands Keep Repurchasing #7AIR-I0472
1. Built-In Yarn-Level UV Protection, Not a Coating Unlike fabrics that rely on topical UV treatments that fade after a few washes, #7AIR-I0472 integrates sun-blocking technology directly into the raw nylon fiber. This guarantees consistent, multi-band UV protection that lasts the entire lifespan of the garment — a verifiable selling point your customers can trust.
2. High-Density Anti-Sheer Weave for Zero Embarrassment The specialized high-density construction delivers an exceptional opacity index, ensuring white and pastel garments remain fully covered even in bright, direct sunlight. No more see-through tank tops, no more visible undergarments — just confident, reliable coverage that reduces returns and boosts customer satisfaction.
3. Contact-Cooling + Moisture-Wicking Dual Action The cooling nylon fiber delivers an instant chill on skin contact, while the moisture-wicking structure rapidly pulls sweat away from the body and accelerates evaporation. Your customers stay cool, dry, and comfortable through outdoor workouts, tennis matches, or all-day summer wear — no sticky, clammy fabric mid-activity.
4. 31% Elastane for Superior Stretch & All-Day Comfort With an impressive 31% elastane content, this fabric offers exceptional four-way stretch and instant recovery, moving freely with the body without restriction or bagging. Soft against the skin and supportive in structure, it bridges the gap between high-performance activewear and comfortable everyday loungewear — giving your brand maximum versatility across product lines.
Ideal Applications for #7AIR-I0472
1. Sun Protection Jackets & UV Shirts The built-in UV protection and lightweight breathability make this fabric perfect for sun hoodies, fishing shirts, running jackets, and outdoor UV-protective apparel where all-day sun safety and comfort are essential.
2. Yoga & Activewear Tops With its buttery-soft hand feel, superior stretch, and sweat-wicking performance, #7AIR-I0472 excels as yoga tops, sports bras, workout tanks, and tennis dresses — combining reliable coverage with unrestricted movement.
3. Anti-Sheer T-Shirts & Everyday Loungewear The high-density opacity solves the classic problem of see-through white tees. It's ideal for casual summer T-shirts, tank tops, and loungewear sets where customers want lightweight comfort without worrying about transparency.
4. UV Sleeves & Fitness Accessories The stretchy, cooling, sun-protective properties make this fabric an excellent choice for arm sleeves, leg sleeves, visor linings, and other fitness accessories designed for outdoor sports and daily sun protection.
5. Bio-Based Stain-Resistant Jersey — The Eco Performance Polo Fabric for Golf & Daily Wear
| Specification | Detail | ||
| Item Code | 79ZD0371-BIO | ||
| Fiber Blend | 95% Nylon + 5% Elastane | ||
| GSM × Width | 210 g/m²×152 cm (60") |
79ZD0371-BIO by Faybric is a high-performance Nylon-Elastane Pique Fabric engineered for active lifestyles and warm-weather comfort. Woven from 95% Nylon with 5% Elastane, this 210 g/m² fabric features a breathable pique knit structure that combines structured elegance with four-way stretch freedom. What sets it apart is its four-in-one functional finish: anti-UV protection, moisture wicking, instant cooling feel, and stain resistance — all in a single, versatile material.
Reasons Brands Keep Repurchasing 79ZD0371-BIO
1. Four High-Demand Functions in One Fabric Anti-UV, moisture wicking, instant cooling, and stain resistance — four performance benefits that would normally require separate fabrics — combined into one material, simplifying your sourcing and reducing SKU complexity.
2. Stain-Resistant Finish for Longer Garment Life The easy-clean, stain-resistant treatment helps garments repel spills and release stains during washing, keeping them looking newer longer and reducing customer returns due to premature soiling.
3. Certified Sustainable & Chemical-Safe Production Manufactured under GRS, OEKO-TEX® 100, and ZDHC Roadmap to Zero standards, ensuring your brand meets global retailer compliance requirements and appeals to eco-conscious buyers.
4. Stable Quality & Custom Color Development Faybric's in-house dyeing and finishing ensure consistent functional performance and color fastness across batches, with Pantone-matched custom colors available to match your brand's seasonal palette.
Ideal Applications for 79ZD0371-BIO
1. Performance Polo Shirts The classic pique texture paired with cooling, wicking, and UV protection makes this fabric perfect for golf polos, tennis shirts, and corporate uniform polos that need to look sharp while keeping the wearer comfortable.
2. Outdoor & Sun-Protection Apparel With built-in anti-UV protection and quick-dry moisture wicking, 79ZD0371-BIO is ideal for hiking shirts, fishing shirts, sun hoodies, and outdoor adventure gear where sun safety and breathability are critical.
3. Kids & School Uniforms Stain resistance is a game-changer for children's clothing — combined with soft stretch and cooling comfort, this fabric works beautifully for school polos, sports uniforms, and everyday kids' activewear.
4. Athleisure & Lifestyle T-Shirts The structured pique hand feel and four-way stretch elevate basic t-shirts, quarter-zips, and casual tops — bridging performance technology with polished, everyday wearable style.
6. Glow Mesh Activewear Fabric — The Quick-Dry Breathable Standard for Night Training
| Specification | Detail | ||
| Item Code | YH760-FG | ||
| Fiber Blend | 87% Polyester + 13% Elastane | ||
| GSM × Width | 180 g/m² ×152 cm (60") |
YH760-FG by Faybric is an eye-catching Silver Reflective Print Fabric that merges bold geometric style with functional safety. Woven from 87% Polyester and 13% Elastane, this 180 g/m² fabric delivers robust four-way stretch, a smooth lustrous hand feel, and rapid moisture-wicking performance. Its defining feature is the silver reflective print — scattered across a vibrant geometric triangle pattern — that illuminates under direct light, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions.
With a usable width of 152 cm (60 inches) and backed by ISO, Global Recycled Standard (GRS), Higg Index, and ZDHC Roadmap to Zero certifications, YH760-FG is perfect for brands seeking to combine fashion-forward design with practical safety features for active and outdoor markets.
Reasons Brands Keep Repurchasing YH760-FG
1. Built-In Reflective Safety for Low-Light Visibility The silver reflective print activates under headlights and direct light, giving wearers enhanced visibility during early-morning runs, evening workouts, and night cycling — a functional selling point that sets your products apart.
2. High 13% Elastane Content for Superior Stretch & Recovery The generous elastane ratio provides exceptional four-way stretch and shape retention, ensuring garments move with the body and bounce back wear after wear — ideal for form-fitting activewear.
3. Bold, On-Trend Geometric Design That Sells The vibrant gradient triangle pattern combined with subtle reflective dots creates a visually striking aesthetic that appeals to fashion-conscious athletes and Gen Z consumers, driving impulse purchases and social sharing.
4. Certified Quality & Custom Pattern Development Faybric supports custom print patterns, colorways, and reflective placement, with consistent dyeing and printing quality across bulk orders — all manufactured under GRS and ZDHC-compliant standards.
Ideal Applications for YH760-FG
1. Night Running & Cycling Apparel The reflective print provides critical low-light visibility, while the high-stretch, moisture-wicking base keeps wearers comfortable — perfect for running jackets, cycling jerseys, and reflective leggings.
2. Kids' Activewear & Safety Clothing Reflective elements are a major selling point for children's outerwear and activewear, giving parents peace of mind during evening play and commutes — ideal for kids' jackets, tracksuits, and school sports uniforms.
3. Fashion-Forward Athleisure & Streetwear The bold geometric pattern and subtle reflective detail elevate hoodies, leggings, crop tops, and track pants that transition seamlessly from gym to street, tapping into the booming athleisure-streetwear crossover market.
4. Swimwear & Beachwear With 87% polyester and 13% elastane, this fabric offers excellent stretch, chlorine resistance, and quick-dry performance — the reflective print adds a unique, eye-catching element to swim leggings, rash guards, and surf suits.
7. Ultra-Light Nylon Spandex Jersey — The Second-Skin Fabric for Activewear & Intimates
| Specification | Detail | ||
| Item Code | H866 | ||
| Fiber Blend | 76% Nylon + 24% Spandex | ||
| GSM × Width | 130 g/m² × 150cm |
H866 is a premium double-warp plain knit fabric engineered specifically for high-performance sports bras and intimate activewear. Blending 76% Nylon with an exceptional 24% Spandex, this fabric delivers unparalleled four-way stretch, superior elasticity recovery, and a buttery-smooth, second-skin hand feel. At just 130 g/m² with a usable width of 150 cm, it is remarkably lightweight and breathable, while its double-warp construction provides excellent structural support and opacity — ensuring garments stay supportive and non-sheer even during maximum stretch.
Designed with quick-dry moisture-wicking performance, H866 keeps the wearer dry and comfortable through intense workouts, making it the ideal base for medium-to-high impact sports bras, bralettes, and activewear linings.
Reasons Brands Keep Repurchasing H866
1. Exceptional 24% Spandex Content for Maximum Support The high elastane ratio provides superior stretch and rebound, ensuring sports bras maintain their shape and support level through hundreds of wears and washes — reducing sagging and extending garment lifespan.
2. Ultra-Light 130 gsm Weight for All-Day Comfort At just 130 g/m², this fabric feels virtually weightless on the skin, eliminating the heavy, restrictive feel common in lower-quality sports bra materials — perfect for long training sessions and everyday wear.
3. Double-Warp Construction for Opacity & Structure The specialized double-warp plain knit delivers excellent coverage and structural integrity even at full stretch, preventing sheerness and providing the reliable support that activewear brands and their customers demand.
4. Consistent Quality & Custom Color Development With in-house dyeing and strict quality control, we ensure uniform color, stretch performance, and weight tolerance across every roll — with Pantone-matched custom colors and finishes available to match your brand identity.
Ideal Applications for H866
1. Medium-to-High Impact Sports Bras The 24% spandex content and double-warp structure provide the firm support and elasticity needed for running, HIIT, and gym training — making H866 the perfect core fabric for high-performance sports bras.
2. Yoga & Pilates Bralettes Ultra-soft against the skin with gentle, unrestricted stretch, this fabric is ideal for low-to-medium impact yoga bralettes, barre tops, and Pilates wear that prioritizes comfort and freedom of movement.
3. Activewear Linings & Inserts Lightweight, smooth, and quick-drying, H866 works beautifully as a lining fabric for leggings, sports tops, and one-piece activewear — providing a comfortable next-to-skin layer that wicks moisture away.
4. Shapewear & Body Contouring Apparel The high elastane content and excellent recovery make this fabric well-suited for shaping camisoles, waist trainers, and body-contouring basics that require firm, comfortable compression with a smooth, invisible finish.
How to Choose: A Quick Decision Framework
With eight fabrics on the table, matching the right textile to the right product line is the difference between a collection that sells through and one that gets marked down. Use this framework to narrow the field:
If Your Priority Is… | Start With | Why | |
Maximum support & opacity | A751 — Nylon-Elastane Knit | 84% Nylon + 16% Elastane • 170 g/m² • 152 cm (60") 4-way stretch with reliable squat-proof coverage; ideal for compression leggings and activewear. | |
Swimwear durability | ZS618-40G — Recycled Nylon | 85% Recycled Nylon + 15% Elastane • 200 g/m² • 150 cm (59") Chlorine & saltwater resistant; GRS, OEKO-TEX® 100 & Higg Index certified for sustainable swim collections. | |
Hot-weather cooling | 79AIR-I0373 — Coolmax® Pique | 96% Polyester + 4% Elastane • 240 g/m² • 152 cm (60") Licensed Coolmax® technology: quick-dry, instant cooling touch, sweat-free wicking & anti-UV protection. | |
UV Protection & Performance | 7AIR-I0472 —Sun-Shield Anti-Sheer Fabric | 69% Anti-Transparent Nylon + 31% Elastane • 210 g/m² • 146 cm. Yarn-level UV protection with high-density anti-sheer weave; contact-cooling & moisture-wicking for summer activewear. | |
All-in-one performance | 79ZD0371-BIO — Multi-Function Pique | 95% Nylon + 5% Elastane • 210 g/m² • 152 cm (60") Four functions in one: anti-UV, moisture wicking, cooling feel & stain resistance; OEKO-TEX® & ZDHC certified. | |
Night visibility & novelty | YH760-FG — Silver Reflective Print | 87% Polyester + 13% Elastane • 180 g/m² • 152 cm (60") Silver reflective print on geometric triangle pattern; enhances low-light visibility for running, cycling & streetwear. | |
Sports bra & intimate support | H866 — Ultra-Stretch Double-Warp Knit | 76% Nylon + 24% Spandex • 130 g/m² • 150 cm Ultra-high elastane content with double-warp construction; quick-dry, second-skin feel for medium-to-high impact sports bras. | |
At-a-Glance: Full Specification Comparison
| Fabric Name | Code | Composition | Primary Function | GSM × Width |
| Nylon-Elastane Performance Knit | A751 | 84% Nylon / 16% Elastane | 4-Way Stretch + Compression Suppor | 170g/m² ×152 cm (60") |
| Recycled Nylon Swim Textile | ZS618-40G | 85% Recycled Nylon / 15% Elastane | Chlorine Resist + GRS & OEKO-TEX® Certified | 200g/m² ×150 cm (59") |
| Coolmax® Cooling Pique | 79AIR-I0373 | 96% Polyester / 4% Elastane | Coolmax® Cooling + Quick-Dry + Anti-UV | 240g/m² ×152 cm (60") |
UV Protection & Performance | #7AIR-I0472 | Anti-transparent Nylon69%+Elastane31% | Yarn-Level Anti-UV + Anti-Sheer Opacity + Contact Cooling + Moisture-Wicking | 210g/m² ×146 cm (57") |
Multi-Function Cooling Pique | 79ZD0371-BIO | 95% Nylon / 5% Elastane | Anti-UV + Wicking + Cooling + Stain Resistance | 210 g/m² ×152 cm (60") |
Silver Reflective Print Fabric | YH760-FG | 87% Polyester / 13% Elastane | Reflective Low-Light Visibility + 4-Way Stretch | 180 g/m² ×152 cm (60") |
Ultra-Stretch Sports Bra Knit | H866 | 76% Nylon / 24% Spandex | Ultra-Stretch + Quick-Dry + Double-Warp Support | 130 g/m² ×150 cm (59") |
Custom function combinations, color matching, print development, and weight adjustments are all available. Every performance claim is backed by an independent laboratory test report.
Buyer FAQ: What Sourcing Managers Ask Us Most
Q1: What is the difference between nylon-spandex and polyester-spandex for my line?
Nylon-spandex feels silkier, takes color more vibrantly, and resists abrasion better — it is the premium choice for yoga, swimwear, and fashion-forward activewear. Polyester-spandex wicks moisture more aggressively and is more budget-friendly, but lower grades can feel stiff or plasticky. Faybric stocks both; our nylon blends are positioned for premium brands, while polyester blends serve high-performance and value segments.
Q2: How do I know a cooling fabric is actually cooling, not just marketed that way?
Request the Q-max test report. China's GB/T 35263 standard sets the cooling-fabric threshold at Q-max ≥ 0.15 W/cm². Anything below that number is a marketing claim, not a verified function. Also ask whether the cooling is mineral-based (permanent, inside the fiber) or chemical-based (washes off in a few laundry cycles). Faybric's AIR-ICY line uses mineral-based cooling with full test documentation.
Q3: Does recycled nylon really perform the same as virgin nylon?
When the recycled yarn comes from a certified chemical-recycling process (not mechanical down-cycling), the polymer is restored to virgin-equivalent molecular weight and purity. Look for GRS certification as proof of traceability. Our ZS618-40G matches virgin nylon in stretch recovery, chlorine resistance, and colorfastness — we provide side-by-side test data on request.
Q4: Can a fabric be both biodegradable and durable? Does CiCLO break down during normal wear?
This is the most common misconception. CiCLO's biodegradable seed sites only activate in microbial environments — landfills, wastewater sludge, marine sediment — where there is sustained moisture and microorganism activity. During normal wearing, washing, and storage, the fabric behaves identically to conventional nylon. It is designed to solve the end-of-life problem, not to compromise the in-use lifespan.
Q5: What elastane percentage should I specify for different support levels?
As a rule of thumb: 8–12% for light-support lifestyle pieces; 15–20% for medium-support yoga and gym wear (our AIR-ICY sits at 20%); 22–28% for high-compression training and therapeutic garments (our A751 interlock is 25%). Higher elastane improves support and recovery but raises fabric cost — match the percentage to your retail price point and intended use case.
Q6: How do I evaluate fabric quality without ordering a full lab test?
Four quick checks you can do in the showroom (see table below). These are screening tools only — always confirm with formal test reports before placing a bulk order.
Q7: What is the minimum order quantity and lead time for custom development?
MOQ and lead time vary by fabric base and the complexity of custom functions or prints. Standard stocked colors can ship with shorter lead times; custom dyeing, print development, and special function combinations require additional weeks. Contact our team with your specific project requirements for an accurate quote and timeline. We provide free sample yardage for evaluation before bulk commitment.
Q8: What care instructions should I put on garment labels to maximize fabric lifespan?
Cold-water wash (30°C / 85°F maximum), no fabric softener (it coats fibers and degrades wicking and antimicrobial performance), no bleach, wash inside-out, and line-dry rather than tumble-dry (high heat breaks down elastane). Fiber-level functions survive 100+ washes under these conditions; finish-level functions typically retain most performance through 50 washes with proper care.
| Quick Test | How to Perform It | What a Pass Looks Like | |
| Recovery Test | Grip both ends, stretch to ~50%, release quickly | Snaps back flat; no rippled or permanently stretched area | |
| Sheer Test | Stretch to ~30% over a light source or your hand | Remains opaque; no visible skin or light through the fabric | |
| Cool Touch Test | Press the fabric firmly against your inner wrist for 3 seconds | Noticeable cool sensation on first contact (not just room temperature) | |
Hand Test | Bunch the fabric in your palm and rub gently | Soft and smooth; no scratchy, waxy, or plasticky sensation | |
About Faybric: Your Stretch Fabric Partner from Concept to Container
Faybric is a vertically integrated stretch fabric manufacturer serving apparel brands, garment factories, independent designers, and fabric distributors worldwide. Our product range spans knitted stretch textiles for swimwear, yoga, underwear, athletic wear, and lifestyle collections — with a growing emphasis on sustainable and functional innovation.
Our in-house capabilities cover knitting, dyeing, printing, and finishing, which means we control quality at every stage and can support custom color, print, weight, width, and function development. We work with certified sustainable inputs including GRS recycled fibers, DuPont Sorona® bio-based polymer, and CiCLO® biodegradable technology. Sample development is free, and our team provides technical support from initial fabric selection through bulk production.
Final Thought: The Fabric Is the Product
In activewear, the consumer does not feel the brand logo — they feel the fabric. A garment that cools, holds its shape, resists odor, and lasts through dozens of wears earns loyalty and word-of-mouth. A garment that bags, sheers, and fades earns returns and bad reviews. The difference is in the fiber, and it is measurable.
Every fabric in this guide comes with verifiable test data — Q-max cooling scores, UPF ratings, antibacterial inhibition percentages, stretch recovery metrics. We believe transparent sourcing builds better products and stronger partnerships.
Ready to find the right fabric for your next collection? Reach out to Faybric for free samples and a technical consultation tailored to your product line.
