Quick answer: For swimwear, choose high-recovery 4-way nylon/spandex that holds up wet and won’t sag. For dancewear & costumes, choose smooth 4-way milliskin, metallic or hologram fabrics for movement and stage impact. For activewear, choose moisture-wicking, compressive performance knits and athletic mesh made with quality elastane. All three want 4-way stretch (see glossary).

Swimwear

Prioritize recovery and 4-way stretch so the suit keeps its shape in and out of the water. High recovery is what stops a suit from sagging or bagging when wet — the fabric stretches, then snaps firmly back. Nylon/spandex is the standard for its smooth hand and quick drying; an 80/20 nylon-spandex around 200–230 GSM gives strong snap-back and support. For pools and hot tubs, look for chlorine-resistant fabric (polyester/PBT blends, or nylon with a chlorine-resistant spandex) so the elastane doesn’t break down and start to sag. Mid-to-high weight adds support and opacity, and a swim lining or power mesh panel adds shape retention.

Dancewear & costumes

Prioritize a smooth surface and full range of motion. Matte milliskin reads cleanly under stage lights; metallic foil and hologram add sparkle and stage presence.

Activewear

Prioritize moisture-wicking, compression and durability. Look to supplex, performance nylon/poly spandex, and athletic mesh for breathable panels. For activewear that lasts, the quality of the spandex matters: fabrics made with branded elastane — Lycra, creora or ROICA — hold compression and shape far longer than generic spandex, and chlorine- or oil-resistant grades (like Lycra XTRA LIFE or creora HighClo) resist breakdown from sweat, sunscreen and pool water. A tighter knit at 220–300 GSM in nylon/spandex gives the best abrasion resistance and snap-back over time.

Quick comparison

Swimwear: high recovery, 4-way, mid/high weight, chlorine-resistant. Dancewear: smooth finish, 4-way, matte or metallic. Activewear: moisture-wicking, compressive, durable branded elastane, breathable mesh panels.

Request samples to compare hand and stretch before you buy by the yard.

What spandex is best for swimwear?

Nylon spandex with good chlorine resistance and 4-way stretch is ideal for swimsuits.

What fabric works best for dancewear?

Milliskin, hologram and stretch velvet are popular for dance costumes, all available by the yard from Stretch House.

What about activewear and leggings?

Look for compressive, squat-proof power mesh and poly or nylon spandex knits.

Where can I buy these fabrics?

Stretch House sells swimwear, dancewear and activewear fabrics by the yard at stretchhouse.com, with free samples and worldwide shipping from New York since 2004.