Roica™ Elastane
Roica™ V550 is a premium stretch elastane designed to deliver exceptional comfort, durability, and shape retention while offering an improved end-of-life profile. Unlike conventional spandex, ROICA™ V550 is engineered to be partially degradable under specific landfill conditions, helping reduce long-term environmental impact without compromising performance during wear. It allows us to incorporate reliable stretch and recovery into our garments while making a more responsible choice within the world of synthetic performance fibers.
The yarn comes from Japan
ROICA™ V550 is a specialty elastane fiber produced by Asahi Kasei. Like conventional elastane (spandex), it is created through a polymerization process that forms a polyurethane-based elastic polymer. The material is dissolved into a spinning solution and extruded through fine spinnerets using a dry-spinning method, where heated air solidifies the filaments into stretch fibers.
What differentiates V550 is a modified polymer structure that allows it to break down more efficiently under specific landfill conditions, while maintaining durability and stretch during the garment’s usable life.
Partially degradable in controlled landfill environments, reducing long-term persistence compared to conventional elastane
Designed for durability and shape retention, extending garment lifespan
Can reduce the amount of elastane needed in a blend due to strong stretch recovery
Why we chose to use it
We chose ROICA™ V550 because stretch is essential — but how that stretch behaves at end of life matters. Traditional elastane can persist in landfills for decades. ROICA™ V550 is engineered to be partially degradable under specific landfill conditions, offering a more responsible alternative without compromising performance.
It allows us to design garments that move with the body, retain their shape over time, and maintain comfort — while taking a step toward improving the long-term impact of stretch fibers. For us, it’s about refining even the smallest percentage of a garment with intention.
