The best bamboo tights and when they last
Short answer: Tights usually tear at the fingernail, not in the wash. The weight in denier decides both warmth and how much they can take, and the waistband decides whether you can bear wearing them all day.
Denier tells you what you get
A low number means thin and sheer, a high number means denser and warmer. If you want something that lasts for daily use, go up in number rather than down. Thin pairs look nice for parties but withstand less and ladder more easily. See the range of bamboo tights for women.
The waistband decides comfort
A wide waistband without a hard edge is the difference between a pair you take off at four o'clock and a pair you forget you are wearing. A narrow waistband digs into your stomach when you sit and rolls down easily. Feel whether the edge is soft and flat before choosing a pair for everyday wear.
How to avoid holes
Put them on with gathered hands and no rings, and roll them up the leg instead of pulling. Most holes happen in the first ten seconds. Sit down while you put them on and keep your nails short and smooth. Rough skin on the heels can also pull threads, so moisturise your feet in the evening.
Size by height and weight
The size of tights follows both height and weight, not just your clothing size. Tights that are too small stretch too much and tear more easily, while ones that are too big bunch at the knees and ankles. The chart is in the tights size guide.
Bamboo in tights
Bamboo viscose makes tights soft against the skin and less clammy on long days. The fibres move moisture away, so you do not feel as warm indoors after being out in the cold. That helps in the office and on public transport, where the temperature changes a lot during the day.
Colour and use
Black tights are the most versatile and hide small ladders best. Nude pairs look good with pale dresses but show every small flaw. Navy and brown shades are a good alternative to black if you want some variety. Keep several pairs in the same colour so one hole does not ruin a whole set.
Washing for a longer life
Wash tights in a laundry bag at 30 to 40 degrees so they do not catch on zips and hooks from other clothes. Skip fabric softener and let them air dry rather than using the tumble dryer. Heat weakens the elastane, and then they lose both fit and hold on the legs.
Storing them in the drawer
Roll the tights up and keep them in a drawer without sharp edges. If they lie loose next to bra hooks or jewellery, they snag easily. A small box or fabric pouch in the drawer keeps them apart, so you can take out one pair without pulling at the others.
When a ladder appears
A small ladder at the toes or waistband often does not spread if it stays at the edge. If it is on the thigh or shin, it tends to run further as you walk. The pair can then still be worn under trousers or tall boots. See the rest of the range in bamboo clothing for women.
Frequently asked questions
What does denier mean?
It is a measure of the thickness of the thread. A low number is thin and sheer, a high number is denser and warmer, and denser pairs usually cope better with daily wear.
How do I avoid tearing my tights?
Take off rings, keep your nails short and roll the tights up the leg instead of pulling on them. Most holes appear while you are putting them on in the morning.
Which size should I choose?
Go by both height and weight in the size guide, not just your clothing size. If you fall between two sizes, the larger one is often more comfortable and lasts longer.
See our range of decoy tights.
