Italian swimwear brand taps LYCRA for biobased elastomers

In Italy, swimwear brand Arena has signed a deal to source biobased LYCRA fibers for its new Vitalife line. Dubbed EcoMade, LYCRA’s plant-based elastomer fibers are 70% plant-based with the same elasticity, strength, and ultraviolet and chlorine resistance as its 100% petroleum-derived counterparts. According to Textile Today, Sahika Ercumen, a Turkish freediver, called the line “a manifesto that celebrates life, the environment, and well-being.” The Vitalife line includes single shoulder, O back, and swim pro-back styles in “nature-inspired” color schemes.