You might be correct that there is spandex in the product, but I don't think it's as simple as you make it out to be.My understanding ofspandex is that it is a fabric, like cotton or polyester. What you do to the fabric can change its qualities and properties quite a bit. Yes, it is a lot of money, but you can find it on sale all over the place. Cabella's has a great clearance sale on the stuff right now.