Q: What benefits does DOW XLA™ offer the swim market?
A: DOW XLA™ is at the heart of a new generation of light, high-performance swimwear that for the first time combines durability, a dynamic flex and stretch, and superior fit and comfort. With its unique ability to withstand the damaging effectsd of chlorine, ultraviolet light and even suntan lotion, swimwear with DOW XLA™ sets new standards for shape, texture and color retention.
Q: How does chlorine affect the life of a swimsuit?
A: The stretch fibers traditionally used in swimsuit fabrics begin to break down after exposure to chlorine - resulting in swimwear that quickly starts to bag and sag. Even when treated for chlorine resistance, the best competitive stretch fiber will break down before the 'host' fiber in the swimsuit. In contrast, swimwear with DOW XLA™, the only Chlorine Proof™ stretch fiber, can withstand exposure to chlorine far longer, resulting in a longer lifespan and exceptional shape retention for professional swimwear.
Q: What is a ‘host’ fiber?
A: The host fiber makes up the majority of the swimsuit.
Q: What makes DOW XLA™ Chlorine Proof™?
A: With its revolutionary resistance to harsh chemicals, DOW XLA™ is inherently Chlorine Proof™. DOW XLA™ withstands exposure to 3.5 parts per million (ppm) of chlorine at room temperature for more than 1,000 hours - more than the typical host, or majority, fiber, and five times longer than less sophisticated stretch fibers.
Q: What is “bi-stretch” and why is it important?
A: The "bi-stretch" functionality of XLA™ brings to wovens an ability to stretch both horizontally and vertically - an ability that was previously available only in knitted fabrics. Working with materials 20-30 percent lighter than traditional wrap-knit fabrics, designers and manufacturers can now create swimwear that, with its closer fit, superior dynamics in the water and greater comfort, offers swimmers a powerful advantage in the water.
Q: Is DOW XLA™ the only Chlorine Proof™ stretch fiber?
A: Yes, DOW XLA™ is the only stretch fiber that has greater chlorine-resistance than typical host fibers in swimwear.
Q: For which swimwear categories is DOW XLA™ best suited?
A: Competitive and serious recreational swimmers will benefit greatly from DOW XLA™ because they can spend hours in the water each day without compromising the performance of their swimwear. However, the natural resistance of DOW XLA™ to the damaging combination of sunscreen products and UV rays - and its versatility and close fit - makes it equally well-suited to the fashion and beachwear swim markets.
