Nothing is more frustrating than buying a new pair of tights and getting a run after the first wear. Runs not only ruin your outfit but also shorten the lifespan of your hosiery. In this guide, we’ll share tried-and-true strategies, practical tips, and insider tricks to help you prevent runs in tights and make them last longer.
1. Choose the Right Denier
Not all tights are created equal. A key factor in durability is the denier rating, which refers to the thickness of the fabric fibers. The higher the denier, the stronger the tights.
- Below 30 denier: Sheer and delicate, more prone to runs
- 40–70 denier: Semi-opaque, balanced durability
- 80+ denier: Fully opaque and highly durable
Hipstik’s opaque tights are 97 denier, making them extra soft yet impressively strong. For everyday wear, higher denier means fewer runs and longer life.
2. Get the Perfect Fit
Over-stretching tights that are too small is a common cause of runs. Fit matters just as much as fabric quality. Hipstik uses a unique sizing system based on body shape and height, not weight. This revolutionary approach ensures that your tights fit your unique shape, reducing strain on the fabric and lowering the risk of snags.
3. Pre-Stretch Before Wearing
New tights can feel tight straight out of the package. Gently stretch them with your hands before wearing to relax the fibers. Some people recommend an unconventional trick: wetting the tights, freezing them overnight, then letting them thaw and dry. While results may vary, it may help pre-stretch the fibers and reduce runs.
4. Put Tights On the Right Way
A common mistake is pulling tights up directly by the waistband, which can cause instant runs. Instead:
- Gather the tights at the toes
- Slip over your foot and ankle
- Work them gently over your calf and knee
- Adjust evenly up to your thighs and hips
This method distributes tension and prevents overstretching in one spot.
5. Wash with Care
Tights are delicate and need gentle care. To extend their life:
- Best method: Hand wash in cold water
- Alternative: Machine wash inside a mesh laundry bag
- Keep tights away from zippers or rough fabrics
- Always air dry—avoid high heat
Proper care is essential for maintaining elasticity and preventing snags. See our full guide on caring for Hipstik tights.
Pro Tip: Stop Runs in Their Tracks
If you notice a small snag starting, act fast. Dab clear nail polish or spray hairspray on the run to stop it from spreading. While this won’t repair the fabric, it can save your outfit in an emergency.
Why Investing in Quality Matters
Buying good quality tights is the most reliable way to avoid constant runs. Durable tights cost a little more upfront but save you from repeated replacements. Hipstik tights are made in the USA by women, designed for both comfort and longevity.
FAQs: Preventing Runs in Tights
What does “denier” mean in tights?
Denier refers to the thickness of the yarn used in hosiery. Lower denier (10–30) is sheer and delicate, while higher denier (40–100+) is opaque and durable.
How long should good tights last?
With proper care, high-quality tights can last several months to a year, depending on frequency of wear and fabric denier.
Does freezing tights really prevent runs?
Some people swear by freezing new tights after wetting them to stretch fibers before first wear. While not scientifically proven, it may help reduce tightness and initial stress on fibers.
What’s the best way to wash tights?
Hand washing in cold water is best. If machine washing, place tights in a mesh laundry bag and air dry to prevent damage.
Can I repair a run in tights?
While you can’t fully repair a run, you can stop it from spreading by applying clear nail polish or hairspray over the snag.
For more insights, explore our article on how to style black leggings or see Good Housekeeping’s clothing care tips for expert advice.
