76% Nylon 24% Spandex Double Knit Fabric 4 Way Stretch 170GSM

Key Advantages 

Why this 76/24 double knit outperforms standard stretch fabrics:

• True 4‑way stretch with high recovery – Unlike cheap 2‑way stretch fabrics, this double knit moves with every angle of the body – lunges, twists, reaches. After stretching, the 24% spandex pulls the fabric back to its original shape. No baggy knees or sagging seat after repeated wear.

• 170GSM – the goldilocks weight for leggings and bodysuits – Heavy enough to pass the squat test (fully opaque) but light enough for year‑round wear. Many premium yoga leggings use 160‑180GSM double knit. 170GSM hits the sweet spot.

• Double knit structure eliminates show‑through – The two‑layer construction blocks light transmission. Even white or pastel colors remain completely non‑see‑through when stretched. No need for gusset liners or double‑layering.

• Soft, silky hand feel from nylon – Nylon fibers naturally feel smoother and less plasticky than polyester. This fabric glides against the skin – comfortable for long wear, sensitive skin, or high‑friction activities like running and cycling.

• Durable and abrasion resistant – Grade 4 on Martindale (50,000 cycles). Resists pilling from gym equipment, seat belts, or yoga mats. Tear strength >35N means no ripping at seam edges during aggressive stretching.

• Moisture wicking and quick drying – Nylon/spandex blends wick sweat away effectively (capillary rise >7 cm). Dries in about 40 minutes, much faster than cotton or most polyamide knits. Stays fresh through multiple back‑to‑back workouts.

• Colorfast and easy care – Grade 4‑5 perspiration fastness prevents yellowing from sweat. Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low – the fabric maintains its stretch and softness for over 100 washes.

Primary performance apparel applications for this 76/24 double knit:

• High‑waist yoga leggings and capris

• Sports bras and bralettes (medium support)

• Bodysuits and dance leotards

• Cycling jerseys and bib shorts

• Gym training tops (fitted but not restrictive)

• Swimwear (moderate chlorine resistance)

• Pilates and barre wear

• Shapewear and base layers

• Athleisure leggings (everyday wear)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does 4‑way stretch mean, and why is it better than 2‑way stretch?
2‑way stretch fabric only stretches in the horizontal or vertical direction (usually weft or warp). 4‑way stretch stretches in both directions plus diagonals. This matters for apparel like leggings where you need to bend, twist, and squat. Our 76/24 double knit achieves 4‑way stretch through the combination of high spandex content (24%) and the double knit interlock structure. The fabric moves with the body, not against it.

Q2: Is 170GSM thick enough to be squat‑proof?
Yes. The double knit structure is inherently more opaque than single jersey or French terry of the same weight. Our lab test shows zero light transmission through the fabric at 170GSM, even on lighter shades (beige, light pink, white). For maximum confidence, we recommend dark or medium colors for intense activity, but all colors pass the squat test.

Q3: How does this fabric compare to polyester/spandex double knits?
Nylon/spandex is generally softer, more drapable, and has a silkier hand than polyester/spandex. Nylon also absorbs slightly more moisture (which aids wicking) but dries a bit slower than polyester. For premium yoga and dancewear, nylon/spandex is the preferred choice because of the luxurious feel. For high‑sweat activities like running or HIIT, polyester/spandex may dry faster. We offer both – this is the nylon version.

Q4: How do I care for this fabric to keep its 4‑way stretch?
Machine wash cold (30°C) on gentle cycle. Do not use fabric softener – it coats the spandex fibers and reduces recovery. Tumble dry low or hang dry. Do not bleach. Avoid high heat (above 60°C) which damages spandex. Following these steps, the fabric retains >80% of its original stretch recovery after 100 washes.

Q5: Is a recycled nylon version available?
Yes. We now offer a GRS‑certified recycled nylon (ECONYL® equivalent) blended with spandex in the same 76/24 ratio and 170GSM. Mechanical properties and hand feel are virtually identical to virgin nylon. Minimum order for recycled is 800 meters. Please request recycled swatch when ordering.