Elastane terry: the stretch towelling fabric behind modern loungewear

Terry has always been the fabric of towels and bathrobes. Elastane terry takes that familiar loop structure and adds stretch — creating a towelling fabric soft and flexible enough to be worn all day. It is one of the innovations developed and produced by Somani in Portugal.

What is elastane terry?

Elastane terry is a knitted terry with a small percentage of elastane in its construction. Somani’s reference quality (style Fanly 130) is composed of 80% cotton, 17% polyester and 3% elastane, with a weight of 385 g/m². It is snag free and made in Portugal.

How it performs

• Super absorbent — it absorbs more moisture than conventional terry.
• Very elastic — elastane stretches without breaking, giving lightness and flexibility without restricting movement.
• Breathable — the knitted base construction breathes well, and the fabric dries faster than regular terry.
• Exceptionally comfortable — a body-hugging fit with freedom of movement.
• Long lasting — as a knitted terry, the loops do not fall apart, keeping the fabric’s appearance for much longer: 2 to 3 times longer than conventional towelling.

A lighter footprint in use

The base construction includes a man-made fibre net between the loops, which allows less water consumption in the washing cycle. Its breathable structure also helps reduce energy consumption when drying — benefits that add up over the life of a garment or a spa accessory.

Where elastane terry works best

Loungewear and apparel

Hoodies, sweatshirts, shorts, trousers, tops and jumpsuits: elastane terry gives loungewear the softness of a bathrobe with the drape and recovery of jersey.

Spa and wellness accessories

Hair turbans, headbands, make-up removal pads and bath accessories benefit from its stretch, absorbency and snag resistance.

Kidswear

Soft shorts, dresses and sets for children, where comfort and durability through repeated washing are essential.

Certified and made in Portugal

Somani develops and produces elastane terry in-house, backed by certifications such as GOTS, OCS, GRS, OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 and SMETA (powered by Sedex). Discover our Apparel & Fashion expertise or get in touch to request swatches.