TEMPERATURES are falling and bare legs are nowhere to be seen. It's time to talk about the best tights around.
Whether you want to jump on the lace tights wave, channelling your best Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent style, or opt for a classic wool pair to keep cosy, there are so many out there to choose from.
Fishnet pairs are having their moment right now too, worn underneath jeans, with knee-high boots and long bohemian skirts.
Whichever design you're after, you need to make sure that you're buying a sturdy pair of tights. Ladders and holes are a real problem when you want to look smart and keep those chills out.
To help you land a pair that won't rip easily, we've tried and tested some high-street favourites to find the best tights online now.
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Best tights at a glance:
- Best tights for women: 15 Denier Body Shaping Tights
- Best value tights: 60 Denier Supersoft Opaque Tights
- Best sheer tights: Boux Avenue Micro Spot Tights
- Best tummy control tights: Spanx High-Waisted Luxe Leg Tights
- Most comfortable tights: Softmerino Women's Tights
M&S Collection Body Shaping Tights
- M&S Collection Body Shaping Tights, £5 from M&S - buy here
Pros: Three pairs in a pack, great value for money, comfortable, slight shine, practical, flattering
Cons: None
Rating: 5/5
First of all, you really can't fault three pairs of tights for £5. That's such a good price that if the M&S Collection Body Shaping Tights did ladder or get holes in, you could easily replace them without being too annoyed about it.
However, thankfully, they're great quality and we noticed how soft the fabric felt as soon as we opened them, making it so comfortable to wear all day.
We wore them from day to night, with no issues of them falling down thanks to the figure-hugging high-waist.
They're cut with M&S' Secret Slimming™ technology and you can definitely feel that when you wear them, ideal for seamlessly pairing with a tight dress.
Sometimes all you need is a pair of basic tights you can rely on. That's what these are, so thanks M&S.
Pack: 3 Pack Material: 85% Polyamide, 15% Elastane Denier: 15
Boux Avenue Tights 15 Denier
- Micro Spot Tights, £10 from Boux Avenue - buy here
Pros: Chic, comfortable, reasonable price, don't fall down
I’m a savvy shopper – best time to shop for Xmas 2023 is sooner than you think
Cons: Might ladder after a lot of use
Rating: 4/5
Want a change from fishnets or opaque tights? The Micro Spot tights from Boux Avenue are a cool option for sprucing up your party wardrobe.
Not only did we find them comfortable, but they also didn't fall while dancing all night — an ideal clubbing companion.
These fly the flag for polka dots making their comeback and we love the change from fishnets.
A small downside is that they're quite thin so might ladder but we found them to be a sturdy evening-wear addition which is fantastic for £10.
Pack: One pair Material: 88% Nylon, 12% Elastane Denier: 20
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M&S 3pk 60 Denier Supersoft Opaque Tights
- M&S 60 Denier Supersoft Opaque Tights, £5 from M&S - buy here
Pros: soft, strong coverage, not itchy
Cons: Some tears
Rating: 3.5/5
Often the first port of call when buying the best tights is to head to trusty M&S, which reportedly sells two pairs of single tights every minute.
Initially, the 60 denier opaque tights feel buttery soft and stretchy, thanks to the polyamide and elastane mix, which provides a little extra stretch for comfort, and security. Plus, they aren’t itchy.
However, as the day goes on these tights tend to roll down slightly.
Despite the strong coverage and the fact they wash well, they are susceptible to some wear and tear, in particular, holes when pulling them up, or around the toe section, though they are comfortable and provide a secure fit.
While we rated these tights a 3.5/5, other shoppers have ranked them higher, with some praising them for being an 'excellent buy, good quality', and affordable.
Pack: Three pack Material: 95% polyamide, 5% elastane Denier: 60
Spanx High-Waisted Luxe Leg Tights
- Spanx High-Waisted Luxe Leg Tights,
£35£28 from Very.co.uk - buy here
Pros: Thick, high quality, suck you in, body-shaping, feel long-lasting
Cons: Very bodycon
Rating: 5/5
Of course, Spanx has provided us with the most shaping tights around in the High-Waisted Luxe Leg tights.
We felt so sucked in wearing these and the hold is so tight that you don't have to hike them up when you wear them for long periods too.
However, we probably wouldn't choose to wear them if we're sitting down for dinner as the compression can feel restrictive.
They kept us warm in cold weather and the material feels soft.
While some of the online reviews are mixed, we didn't have any complaints and found that the price is worth it for some shaping tights.
Pack: One pair Material: 85% Nylon, 15% Spandex/Elastane - Gusset: 55% Nylon, 45% Cotton
Falke Softmerino Wool Tights
- Softmerino Women Tights, £42 from Falke - buy here
Pros: Cosy, durable, don't fall, climate regulating, comfiest of all
Cons: Pricey
Rating: 4/5
Softer-than-soft is the best way to describe Falke's Softmerino Women Tights.
At first, we thought the £42 price tag was a bit excessive for tights. After all, it's an accessory that is prone to getting holes in so we don't ever really want to spend too much on tights, but now we understand why some people do.
Seeing as the temperatures had just dropped in London when we tried these out, they were a real saviour. We felt so cosy all day wearing them with boots and a denim skirt. They're also ridiculously comfortable so we weren't in any rush to take them off at the end of the day.
Another major plus is the soft cuffs and flat whipped seam that makes sure there's no pressure on your body.
The only real downside is the price, but if you have the budget then it's a great investment.
Pack: One pair Material: 57% Virgin Wool, 23% Cotton, 18% Polyamide, 2% Elastane
Very Pretty Polly 60D Opaque Tights 2PP
- Very Pretty Polly 60D Opaque Tights 2PP, £6 from Very - buy here
Pros: Comfortable, easy to put on, no tears, multiple sizes
Cons: None
Rating: 5/5
Very's Pretty Polly 60D Opaque Tights are considered a winning formula among us fashion experts, as they are comfortable, stable and affordable, so one of the best pair of tights for women.
These tights, made from nylon and elastane blend, slip on nicely, feel super comfortable and stay up all day.
After a long day in the office, and a rather large Pizza Express lunch they still didn't roll down like others - even the gusset stays in its rightful place.
After having worn the tights for around 15 hours there was not a hole, pull or mark in sight.
They washed flawlessly and after wearing them multiple times since, they remain intact, almost as if they are still fresh off the shelves.
They come in two sizes, small/medium as well as medium/large, which makes for easy shopping, we think.
Pack: Two pair Material: 95% Nylon 5% Elastane Denier: 60
Ann Summers Geo Crotchless Fishnet Tights
- Geo Crotchless Fishnet Tights, £12 from Ann Summers - buy here
Pros: Unique style, sexy, stay in place, flattering, good quality
Cons: Breezy under a skirt or dress, can't wear a short hemline
Rating: 4/5
If you're looking for a pair of tights to give you a real lift, both body and confidence-wise, the Ann Summers Geo Crotchless Fishnet Tights are right up your street.
While personally, it's not our usual style, these tights are exceptionally flattering and so much more comfortable than expected.
The strappy design enhances your figure and comes up high enough so that you can wear them with knee-length hemlines. Although, we avoided anything shorter because no one wants to see an accidental flash.
If you want to wear them as simple fishnets, wearing small cycling shorts over the top works well too. Then you can keep the crotchless design for your lover's eyes only.
All in all, from the quality to the surprising level of comfort, these are a great choice from Ann Summers. The only issue is that you probably won't want to wear them all day long just because the strappy design isn't the comfiest in comparison to classic styles.
But for £12, why not treat yourself to something daring?
Pack: One pair Material: 94% Polyamide, 6% Elastane
River Island Black Lace Tights
- Black Lace Tights, £12 from River Island - buy here
Pros: On trend, stay in place, good value for money
Cons: Not comfiest because of style
Rating: 4/5
River Island's Black Lace Tights are one of the trendiest pairs we tested and instantly add interest to any outfit.
As another bargain buy, we weren't expecting the quality to be so good, but we were comfortable wearing these out all evening with no issues and returned home hole-free.
The only thing with all lace tights is that they don't keep you as warm and aren't super soft, but for a classic pair, you can't go wrong with these.
As they're just £12, we wouldn't be too fussed if they did ladder but so far so good.
Pack: One pair Material: 100% Polyester
Asos Design 40 Dernier Tights in Blue
- ASOS Design 40 Denier Tights in Blue, £8 from Asos - buy here
Pros: Vibrant colour, comfy, bargain
Cons: Not sure how long they'll last
Rating: 3/5
Finally, the ASOS Design 40 Dernier Tights in Blue will turn some heads, that's for certain.
We don't normally wear bold tights but these were super fun to wear and the colour is just as good in real life.
Quality-wise, they aren't up the top of our list as they're quite thin and probably will need to be replaced.
Ours laddered but they also got caught on a ring which was not ideal. Although for £8, they can be easily replaced, but maybe opt for another brand if you want some more durable tights.
Pack: One pair Material: 80% Nylon, 20% Elastane Denier: 40
New Look Black Opaque 70 Denier Tights
- New Look Black Opaque 70 Denier Tights, £7.99 from New Look - buy here
Pros: Cheap
Cons: Tears easily
Rating: 2/5
New Look's three-pack of 70 Denier tights is a bargain buy, but the cheap price tag is one of the only perks.
Without much movement they are fine, but after day one we noticed a ladder in the crotch after constantly yanking them upwards when they fell below the waist.
Our second wear was even less successful, with a trip to the supermarket resulting in my tights falling to an obscene level by the time we got back to the car.
These are ten deniers more than some of the other tights tested – yet they feel like the thinnest out of others tested and not necessarily as opaque as you hope.
Pack: Three pack Material: 90% Polyamide, 10% Elastane Denier: 70
Snag Tights
- Snag Tights 120 Denier Tights, £9.49 from Snag Tights - buy here
Pros: Eco-conscious, high-quality material, wide range of sizes
Cons: None
Rating: 5/5
Tights vary in length, but often not by width, so it can be tricky to find a pair that fits and is comfortable without being too small and causing chafing, or being too big and falling down your legs when you walk.
The eco-conscious brand burst onto the scene promising to change that, with size, height and weight-inclusive tights that fit wearers of all different shapes and sizes.
The size guide was super easy to follow, simply find your height range, then scroll to your dress size to find a designated letter, from a size 4 to 36, and up to 6'5 in height, though, prices vary from £6.99 upwards depending on the style, denier and size.
The tights are designed from top quality material, as they are made using aerated yarn for a buttery soft texture, which is moisture wicking, as well as breathable, and provide secure coverage.
The foot and toe sections are reinforced for extra durability, while the cotton gusset prevents any irritation or discomfort, and promises ultra freshness.
We never felt like they were falling, or short enough to encourage the dreaded chub rub, and we felt like the tights were made for our body.
There are also tights available for children, and the tights are suitable for maternity wear, too.
Snag Tights not only prides itself on tights that truly fit, but on its recyclable packaging, too, which alongside creating durable, comfortable and stylish tights, we consider these a worthy investment. Read our full Snag Tights review here
Pack: One pair Material: 92% Polyamide, 7% Elastane, 1% Cotton Denier: 120
Primark 3pk opaque tights 60 denier
- Primark: 3pk opaque tights 60 denier, £5 from Primark - buy here
Pros: Durable, comfy, secure, cheap
Cons: In between thin and thick material, shows tears
Rating: 3/5
Primark is the go-to shopping destination for affordable dupes and stylish wardrobe pieces, as well as failsafe underwear buys, including tights.
After putting these to the test it's safe to say they are durable, comfortable and provide a secure fit, as after a day they wearing this hosiery creation they did not fall when walking, the gusset stays in place and there is no itch.
However, with 60 denier tights, while they aren’t the thinnest of tights you can buy, they’re also not the thickest either, meaning there is more scope for holes and snags.
However, after a few hours these tights start to show signs of wear and tear, with ladders and holes appearing, but for £5 what can we expect?
Pack: Three pack Material: 92% Nylon, 10% Elastane Denier: 60
Sheertex Shaping Luxury Semi-Sheer Rip-Resist Tights
- Shaping Luxury Semi-Sheer Rip-Resist Tights,
£89£35 from Sheertex - buy here
Pros: Super strong material, smoothing control top
Cons: Tights roll down
Rating: 4/5
Founded in 2017, Sheertex is a relatively new name in the hosiery world, but it's made its presence known thanks to its strong Instagram game and 'rip-resistant' tights, which it claims are "made with one of the strongest materials in the world."
The shaping tights are made with a 50 denier knit that Sheertex claims is softer than ever – but, crucially, just as strong.
When shopping on Sheertex customers will find a handy slider bar on the site, which allows shoppers to select a skin tone and then see the visual difference between each of its three deniers - genius.
Onto the tights, and the fabric certainly feels freakishly strong. The packaging insert (super cute) suggests to 'pull, tug and stomp on your tights to show just how strong they are' – and we have to say, they do hold up to force.
We sat down with a pal’s dog who paws away and yet, no holes or rips.
The supportive control top was smooth without being overly constricted and the tights themselves were comfy.
However, the only bugbear is these tights kept rolling down over the stomach, so size up if you are in between sizes.
Pack: One pair Material: 54% Nylon, 31% Polyethylene, 15% Spandex Denier: 50
Where can I buy tights in the UK?
If you're looking for tights, then you can guarantee that you'll find pairs at any fashion or lingerie retailer.
There are even specific shops that will be able to offer you more specific tights, like compressive styles or snag-proof material.
Here are some of the best places to buy tights:
- Amazon
- ASOS
- Calzedonia
- M&S
- Pretty Polly
- Tights Tights Tights
How much do tights cost in the UK?
There is a range of price points for tights. In our article, the cheapest was a three-pack for £5 from M&S, and the most expensive was from Falke at £42.
You can find most tights range from £7 - £15, depending on style, function and design.
In addition, you can lower costs by buying a three-pack or five-pack of tights, which will last you longer if you're a frequent tights wearer.
What's the difference between leggings and tights?
Though they sometimes look the same, leggings and tights are two distinct pieces of clothing.
The key difference is that leggings run down from the waist to the ankle and do not cover the feet.
Leggings can also be worn alone or under long jumpers, T-shirts or tunics. Sometimes made of elastic material, they can be great for both workouts and lazy Sunday afternoons spent on the couch.
Unlike leggings, tights can't be worn on their own and should be paired with dresses, skirts or shorts. They come in different patterns, designs and fabrics but they are usually made of thinner materials than leggings.
Are 20 denier tights thick?
The sheer qualities of materials are measured in denier or den. The lower the number, the lower the thickness and weight of the materials used.
Deniers lower than 20 are referred to as sheer tights, which are made of fine threads and offer light leg coverage, while opaque tights begin at 30 deniers and mean you won't be able to see as much skin through the fabric.
What are the different types of tights?
With trends changing throughout the years, the world of tights has seen many different varieties and styles, but some are here to stay.
The most popular types of tights include control top tights, which usually give the wearer a smoother figure.
There are also support tights that some know as "granny tights" (although, of course, they can be worn by women of all ages).
Support tights help people suffering from poor circulation because of prolonged periods of sitting — pretty good if you're working in an office all day.
You can also choose between sheer tights, made of thinner materials as well as opaque tights, which usually keep your legs warmer and are great for winter months.
How can I make my tights last longer?
There's nothing worse than discovering your big toe poking through your tights at the end of the day.
As a general rule of thumb, opaque and thicker tights are more resistant but if you're a sheer tights fan there are still a few hacks to make them last longer.
Fashion experts say that running your tights under cold water, placing them in a plastic bag and popping them in the freezer before the first wear will strengthen them, meaning it should make them less prone to ripping.
When washing tights, you can also place them into a delicate bag or pillowcase, to avoid tearing them. To reinforce the seams, slip on a pair of thin socks before putting on your tights — this will protect them from your toenails.
How to fix a snag in my tights?
Nails and delicate tights are often a recipe for disaster: we've all been there.
However, if you notice a snag in your tights and want to do some damage control before it turns into a full-on rip, it's super easy to fix the problem.
A snag will appear as dark lines in your tights: all you need to do when you spot one is to very gently pull on the sides and rub ever so slightly.
The snag will disappear, as if by magic! If it's a hole that you're dealing with, then one of the best tips to stop it from running is to dab a bit of clear nail varnish onto the edge to 'seal' it.
Once it's dry, you can even sew a few stitches in a similar coloured thread to close the hole and get some more wear out of your tights.
