Aerial Silks Fabric: Understanding Stretch

aerial-silks-fabric

An Introduction to Aerial Silks Fabric Stretch Levels

If you’ve ever tangled yourself up in aerial silks – gracefully or not – you’ve probably noticed one thing: some silks bounce like a trampoline, others feel like climbing a stubborn curtain. That’s the “stretch” we’re talking about. But it’s not just a preference thing – it’s a safety, performance and style thing too.

Stretch refers to how much the fabric gives when weight is applied. Think of it like mattress firmness – what’s “right” depends on how you sleep (or, in this case, how you drop, climb or wrap).

Let’s break it down into the three main types of aerial silks fabric:
– Low Stretch
– Medium Stretch
– High Stretch

Each one has its sweet spot – and a few quirks. Let’s talk about what each is good for, what can trip you up and how it actually feels mid-air.

Low Stretch Aerial Silks Fabric: The Climber’s Best Friend

Have you ever tried climbing a slinky? Well… don’t. That’s why low-stretch fabric exists.
Low-stretch silks are tight, taut and give you exactly what you put into them. This makes them ideal for climbers – especially beginners or performers who rely on a lot of upward motion. Every pull translates directly into lift. No bounce, no lag.

Low stretch aerial silks fabric is best for:
– Climbs. Efficiency is everything. Low stretch gives you that clean, quick ascent.
– Static wraps. Think of belays, footlocks or anything where you want a wrap to stay exactly where you left it.
– Beginner-friendly drops. Less rebound means less surprise at the bottom. Predictability = safety.

But there’s a tradeoff.
That lack of bounce also means a lack of cushion. When you drop (intentionally), the fabric won’t absorb as much of the shock. For bigger, more dynamic drops, it can feel… well, abrupt. Like slamming on the brakes without power steering.

Also, because it doesn’t stretch, the wraps can sometimes feel tighter or more restrictive, especially during long sequences.

A quick side note: If you train multiple times a week and your arms are constantly sore, low stretch silks can actually save your grip. You’re not fighting fabric slinkiness – just gravity.

Medium Stretch Aerial Silks Fabric: The Middle-Ground Magic

Let’s call this the “goldilocks” zone. Not too soft. Not too stiff. Just… balanced.
Medium-stretch silks offer enough give to soften drops but enough resistance to keep climbs clean. It’s the fabric most recreational studios use and for good reason – it works for most people, most of the time.

Medium stretch aerial silks fabric is best for:
– All-around training. If you’re still figuring out your style – whether you lean toward flowy wraps or dramatic drops – medium stretch gives you room to explore.
– Drop safety. There’s enough bounce to absorb impact, without launching you into next week.
– Longer routines. That slight give in the medium stretch fabric reduces fatigue, helping with endurance.

Now, if you’re used to low stretch fabric, the bounce here might catch you off guard the first time. Climbs will feel a touch less efficient, especially if you’re used to powering through with sheer strength.

And here’s the weird thing: Some days, it’ll feel just right. Other days, a little off. Why? Well, it’s you. Hydration, weather, muscle soreness, even how many coffees you’ve had – it all affects how your body interacts with fabric. (That’s why performers often have a “favorite silk” for performance nights. It’s not just superstition.)

High Stretch Aerial Silks Fabric: The Drop Dancer’s Playground

You know that weightless, flying feeling? This is where it lives.
High stretch silks are like aerial trampolines. They give… a lot. Some stretch up to 60% under body weight. That’s a lot of bounce – and it completely changes how drops feel.

High stretch aerial silks fabric is best for:
– Big, dynamic drops. The stretch absorbs shock beautifully, creating a silky rebound that feels like floating. It’s also easier on the joints and spine.
– Performance drama. Visually, the bounce adds flair. The fabric itself becomes part of the storytelling.
– Advanced flow work. The movement of the fabric can add fluidity to transitions, giving a rolling, wave-like feel.

But let’s be honest… climbs are a pain.
With every pull, you lose inches to stretch. It can feel like climbing a rubber band. So, unless you’ve got endurance for days or legs of steel, high stretch aerial silks aren’t ideal for long sequences full of ascents.

Also – wraps can shift more easily. What starts as a secure belay might slide an inch or two under tension. Not dangerous if you plan for it, but something to keep in mind.

Pro tip: Advanced artists often choose high-stretch for the drama – but rehearse on medium stretch to preserve their energy and prevent overuse injuries. It’s like running with ankle weights and then switching to sprint shoes on race day.

Wait – What About the Type of Aerial Silks Fabric?

Great question – I’m glad you asked.

Stretch isn’t just about tension – it’s also about material and weave. Most aerial silks are made from nylon tricot, but the denier (thickness) and weave tightness can dramatically shift how it behaves.

Some 40-denier silks feel wildly different depending on the brand or mill. That’s why one studio’s “medium stretch” can feel totally foreign at another. If you’re buying your own rig, always ask for samples – and test them under load if possible.

Also: heat, humidity and time break fabric in. A new silk straight out of the bag will feel different after a few months of sweaty rehearsals. They loosen up, soften, stretch more.

So… Which Level of Stretch Should You Use?

Let’s break it down based on real-life goals and feels.

You want to:
– Learn to climb, wrap and stay safe: Low or Medium Stretch
– Perform smooth, soft-looking drops: Medium or High Stretch
– Protect joints during high-impact work: High Stretch
– Build clean technique and control as a beginner: Low Stretch
– Explore and experiment with a variety of styles: Medium Stretch
– Perform dramatic, high-energy drop sequences: High Stretch (with caution)

But honestly? Try different ones. What feels like a dream to your body might feel off to someone else. There’s no universal “best.” Just the one that works for your movement, your goals and your body on that particular day.

Wrapping Up (See What I Did There?)

Aerial silks isn’t just about moves – it’s about relationship. Between you and the fabric, your weight and the air, gravity and momentum. Understanding stretch is like understanding your partner’s rhythm in a dance. It changes everything.

So next time you feel frustrated by a stubborn climb or a scary drop, take a second. Ask yourself – could it be the fabric? Could you work with the stretch, not against it?

Because here’s the thing: silks aren’t static. Neither are we. And the more we learn to adjust, respond, and feel – the more our training becomes something way beyond technical. It becomes artistry.

And honestly? That’s where the real magic lives.