Scuba

About

Scuba fabric is a thick and soft double-knit fabric. Made in a double-knit style, Scuba fabric is typically a polyester-spandex blend that mimics the structured feel of neoprene without the heavy rubber layer. Scuba fabric has a lot of stretch, as well as stiffness, and holds its shape well. Scuba fabric is available in a variety of colors and patterns, including embossed options. What Is Scuba Fabric? Scuba fabric gets its name from its resemblance to wetsuit material: thick, smooth, and slightly spongy to the touch, with just enough compression to smooth over the body without feeling restrictive. Most scuba is double-knit, meaning two layers of yarn are knitted together to create a single fabric that is thicker and more stable than standard jersey or knit. This double-layer structure is what gives scuba its signature bounce-back and shape retention. Quick facts on scuba fabric: Double-knit construction, thicker and more stable than jersey Typically a polyester and spandex blend engineered to mimic the density of neoprene Opaque, does not require lining in most garments Resistant to wrinkling and holds a smooth, flat surface Does not fray, so raw edges and bonded seams are common For a closer look at how it is made and where the name comes from, the scuba fabric guide on the Zelouf blog breaks down the construction in more detail. Fiber Content and Feel Because scuba is typically a polyester-and-spandex blend, it holds its shape exceptionally well while still offering meaningful stretch in every direction. Heavier versions use a tighter, denser knit for extra body and structure that closely resembles true wetsuit material. In contrast, others run lighter for apparel that needs drape as well as hold. Scuba crepe, a popular variation, blends scuba’s structured hand with crepe's subtle pebbled texture, giving designers a softer drape without losing the fabric’s core stability. How Scuba Fabric Is Used Scuba’s combination of structure and stretch makes it a favorite fo