Tights or long underpants
Short answer: Tights give full coverage and suit under dresses and skirts, while long underpants are easy to take on and off and suit under trousers. Choose by the clothes over them and the weather.
Two layers for cold legs
When the cold arrives, many people need an extra layer on the legs. Tights and long underpants do the same job, but in different ways. One is whole from waist to toe and can be worn under a dress. The other is a pair of trousers that acts as an extra layer under ordinary trousers. The choice depends on what you wear over them and how you move.
Tights: coverage and elegance
Tights cover the leg all the way down, so they suit dresses, skirts and shorts. They lie smooth and create an unbroken line, and they keep the heels covered. The drawback is that they can slip down at the crotch if the size is wrong, and that they are harder to take off in the toilet. See bamboo tights for women for styles in soft material.
Long underpants: a practical layer under trousers
Long underpants are simple to put on and take off and sit beneath trousers, where they are not seen. They are good for winter walks, for outdoor work and for people who feel cold in the legs. You can take them off if you come into the warmth without changing all your clothes. The drawback is that they cannot be used under a dress and can fold at the ankles if they are too long.
Fit and comfort
Tights should have a loose crotch and a soft waistband that does not press. If the crotch is too low they sag and create folds. Long underpants should fit close without pinching and end at the ankle without bunching. Consider a pair with light elastic at the waist. See bamboo panties under either if you want a soft layer, and bamboo bra without underwire for a light layer on top.
Fabric and care
Viscose from bamboo is soft and smooth against the skin, has a cool touch and absorbs moisture, so you do not get clammy if you warm up. That means you can wear tights and long underpants through a day of changing temperatures. Wash at 30 to 40 degrees inside out in a laundry bag and avoid fabric softener. Let them dry flat so that elastic and fabric keep their shape for longer.
What about warmth
Warmth comes from layers and air, not from thickness alone. Two thin layers can be warmer than one thick one, because air forms between them. Under a skirt a pair of tights may be enough, while long underpants under trousers give extra security on cold days. Clothing must not pinch so much that circulation is restricted. Talk to your doctor if you often have cold legs without reason.
Our recommendation by situation
Choose tights for dresses, skirts and when you want an unbroken line. Choose long underpants for trousers, outdoor work and very cold days. Many have both, so they can choose by the day's clothes. When it is cold, put on the warmest layer first, and when you warm up take off one at a time.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear long underpants under a dress
It can look awkward, as they show under the hem. For dresses, tights are the best choice.
How do I stop tights from slipping down
Choose the right size with enough length in the crotch and a soft waistband. Ones that are too big keep slipping.
Are two thin layers warmer than one thick
Often yes, because air forms between the layers. It also means you can remove a layer if you get warm.
See our range of decoy tights.
