shortstretch

Shortstretch is a term used primarily in textiles and garment production. It is often written as short-stretch or with a hyphen; the single-word form is less common and sometimes appears as a brand or product descriptor.

In garment manufacturing, short-stretch refers to elastic materials or waistband systems that provide low to moderate elasticity, offering a secure, comfortable hold without excessive give. They are typically used in waistbands of jeans, underwear, and shapewear where a stable fit is desired.

Construction and materials: Short-stretch elastics usually have a polymer core such as natural rubber or elastomeric fibers covered with a textile sheath, and may be integrated directly into the waistband or sold as separate elastic tapes. Widths vary by application and design.

Advantages and limitations: The approach can improve shape retention, reduce waistband rolling, and enhance comfort for longer wear. Limitations include less adaptability to rapid or extreme movement compared with fully stretch elastics, making it less suited for high-mimpact activewear.

Other uses and terminology: Some suppliers market "shortstretch" as a trademark or stock product line; the term also appears in trade literature or catalogs to distinguish low-stretch elastics from fully elastic options. The exact meaning can vary by manufacturer and regional industry practice.