This year, we’ve updated our guide to the best black tights to include pairs for petites and long legs. We also added luxury options (Falke, anyone?), a viral Amazon best-seller, and updated some tried-and-true faves. Of course, we left the comments section open in case you feel compelled to share a hot take on a hidden (nylon) gem, or share feedback — positive and negative — on a pair that we’ve included.
Whether your favorite pairs are opaque, full-control, sheer, lined with fleece, or dipped in glitter; if they’re black and proven to perform, they are here. Click through to find the 17 pairs of black tights worthy your hard-earned cash and valuable space in your sock drawer.
Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors. Reviews have been edited for spelling and grammatical accuracy only.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Calvin Klein Sheer Essentials Matte Control Top Pantyhose
The Forever Tights
If you’re looking for a sheer option whose ironclad strength belies its delicate appearance, Calvin Klein’s matte pair may be your best bet — reviewers vouch for the hose’s resilience throughout years of wear.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars, 31 reviews on BareNecessities
What They’re Saying: “I started buying this hose in 2008 at Syms for $4 a pair. They lasted for YEARS, and I wear hose three to four times per week. Syms went out of business, and now I can’t afford to spend $14 on every pair of hose, but I try to fit at least one in. They always last longer than all the other brands I’ve bought, either through this website or in a rush at the grocery store. They just keep going.” — Vyronica, BareNecessities reviewer
Calvin Klein Sheer Essentials Matte Control Top Pantyhose, $, available at Bare Necessities
Swedish Stockings Olivia Premium Tights
The Sustainable Tights
Synthetic-heavy stockings are not the most eco-friendly accessory, but there are brands out there that are making leg-huggers from recycled nylon, like Swedish Stockings. And they’re not flimsy, either — customers found their premium “Olivia” style to be heavy-duty and highly insulating.
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars, 26 reviews on Amazon
What They’re Saying: “These are incredibly thick. Like REALLY, REALLY THICK. They are more like tights than pantyhose. Just be aware when you are purchasing. The #40s are more like pantyhose. So, these would be more for winter, especially for me as a Floridian. The toe is reinforced. The waistband is nice and light, doesn’t cut into my waist at all. Overall, I give them a thumbs up. I would purchase these again and they would probably be great for dancers with the thickness too. They have a sustainability program too where they will take back your old pantyhose and reuse them. It’s kind of neat, so I feel like I'm helping save the world.” — Hbmathey, Amazon reviewer
swedish stockings Olivia Premium Tights, $, available at Amazon
Berkshire Luxe Opaque Tights with Control Top
The Long-Legged Tights
Berkshire has been an affordable, trusty hoisery resource for over 100 years, and boasts inclusive sizing that runs from petite to 4X. Pro tip: longer-legged ladies swear by the brand’s gam-accommodating lengths.
The hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars, 13 reviews on HerRoom
What they’re saying: “They fit! I’m tall and weigh considerably less than the stated range on the size chart, but they are long enough (which amazes me as I can never find tights that are long enough for my legs). The control top is a little big, but not baggy — they just pull up like a high waisted control top, which is a plus for me.” — Judy from Denver, HerRoom reviewer
Berkshire Luxe Opaque Tights with Control Top, $, available at HerRoom
Capezio Ultra Soft Transition Tights
The Convertible Tights
For a pair of hose that’s both sturdy and versatile, customers turn to veteran dance-wear brand Capezio. Made for excessive wear-and-tear, these tights can survive multiple machine washes without running or losing any elasticity. Plus, they’re equipped with a subtle, stay-put opening at the foot, for morphing into a legging-like fit when the mood strikes.
The hype: 4.0 out of 5 stars and 1,093 reviews on Amazon
What they’re saying: “I grew up dancing and wearing Capezio tights. Now I work in finance, so I live in tights all winter with my dresses. These are my go-to after trying a half dozen department store brands. I’ve probably worn my current pair a dozen times — with boots, through snow, washing them, etc., and they’re still in great shape. I think it’s the elastic in them that makes them so resilient. Having the hole at the foot is an added bonus, so I can wear them under pants for added warmth and just roll them up around my ankle.” — Kindle customer, Amazon reviewer
Capezio Ultra Soft Transition Tight, $, available at Amazon
Sheertex “Unbreakable” Sheer Tights
The Physics-Defying Tights
This Canadian brand tackled the (seemingly impossible) task of creating indestructible stockings with an engineer’s precision, creating a stronger-than-steel fiber derived from polymers that are typically used in sailing equipment. While most of the brand’s products boast almost unanimously glowing reviews, it’s their signature “Unbreakable” tights that have garnered the most accolades for their superior strength.
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 2,640 reviews on Sheertex
What They’re Saying: “Can’t ever recall being this excited about a pair of tights! I’ve maybe bought 10 to 12 pairs of regular nylon tights over the course of the last year, all due to minor accidents that would rip them; like my ring getting caught on them, or having to remove my shoes and walk on wooden floors, or some crazy normal thing you would not think twice about if you had socks on. I love the idea that I don’t have to be so delicate with this pair, and can treat them like any old pair of socks even. I love that I’ll be able to re-wear and re-use them season after season! Excellent contribution to a girl’s closet! Thank you thank you!!” — Shruthi S., Sheertex reviewer
Sheertex “Unbreakable” Sheer Tights, $, available at Sheertex
SPANX Luxe Leg Shaping Tights
The Friendly-Hug Tights
We’re not ones to hide our curves in a pair of soul-suckingly tight anything, but when you’re looking for some control that won’t pinch or budge, reviewers say these tights are it.
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 119 reviews on Nordstrom
What They’re Saying: “I am a super fan of Spanx Luxe Shaping tights! The sizing is perfect, and I can wear a size A no problem, which as a petite lady is really appreciated. Many times, tights are made way too long in the legs for smaller ladies. The Spanx Luxe Shaping tights always fit just right; they are comfortable, flattering and give you just enough support in the tummy and waist to feel good all during the day at work and into the night for fun. The added benefit to being tights is that they are just thick enough to keep my legs warm too. They stand up to wash after wash and wear like new (though I do hang them to dry). I highly recommend these tights.” — Petite Nana, Nordstrom review
SPANX Luxe Leg Shaping Tights, $, available at Nordstrom
Plush Fleece-Lined Tights
The Extra-Warm Tights
For anyone who’s survived a real, below-zero winter, you know how important it is to have a tried and true pair of fleece tights. No pair of jeans, trousers, or even sweatpants is enough to keep you warm when the wind chill is in the negatives. But if you still haven’t found that one perfect pair, look no further than these fleece-lined tights by Plush.
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5.0 and 84 reviews on Shopbop
What They’re Saying: “These are my new go-to tights in the winter. They are seriously warm (warmer than pants or jeans), fit like tights and look like tights. Where have you been my entire life? So glad I found these here! I highly recommend. They are also comfortable. Some tights cinch too tightly on the waist, but these are just right! Will buy again and again!” — Dakeeks, Shopbop reviewer
Plush Fleece-Lined Tights, $, available at Shopbop
A New Day Blackout Tights
The Budget-Friendly Tights
Sometimes we simply can’t afford to drop double-digit ducats on a single pair of tights, no matter how warm or long-lasting they may be. When you’re on a budget, tap these top-rated $8 tights from Target.
The hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 184 reviews on Target
What they’re saying: “These tights are the best tights I’ve ever tried! They’re thick, soft, somehow they magically don’t attract dog hair or lint and they have the perfect amount of stretch. These held in my postpartum stomach while still being able to breathe! Great for fall/winter.” — Stlang13, Target reviewer
A New Day Blackout Tights, $, available at Target
No Nonsense Opaque Sheer to Waist Tights
The Crowd-Pleasing Tights
With a comfortable, control-free top; mid-rise waistband, and pleasingly opaque finish, these daily-wear nylons from longtime drugstore brand No Nonsense are just that — a fair, fuss-free option that a host of happy customers swear by.
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars, 1,255 reviews on Amazon
What They’re Saying: “These are a staple in my wardrobe from fall to spring and even on cooler days during the rest of the year.
Generously sized and easy to slip into. Nice wide waistband that’s actually comfortable. Plenty of length in the legs. The tights are a joy to wear and I’m in them most days of the week with just about everything I wear. From skirts and dresses to shorts and rompers. They’re even great under slacks, ankle pants or ripped jeans for a fun look and a bit of extra warmth.” — Suomynona, Amazon reviewer
No Nonsense Opaque Sheer to Waist Tights, $, available at Amazon
Commando Ultimate Opaque Matte Tights
The “Smooth Operator” Tights
Anyone who’s tried Commando tights has probably heard of their one defining trait: the waistband. No matter what you’re wearing — from a body-con dress to skintight jeans — you’ll be hard-pressed to find a pair of tights with smoother lines than these.
The hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 164 reviews on Nordstrom
What they're saying: “Commando! So opaque, soft, warm. The thing that seals it is the waistband, though. The thick band is like a maternity belt, absolutely zero digging and no lines under body-con dresses. No bagging, no poofy knees, no runs, no pulling — and the one hole I’ve ever had didn’t get any bigger (it was on the toe and easy to hide). I wish they made a slightly smaller size, because they can slip a bit, but if you get the correct size, they stay in place all day and night! I wear the stirrup foot ones under skinny jeans and they’re amazingly comfortable.” — Britt Bryant, Refinery29 reader review
Commando Ultimate Opaque Matte Tights, $, available at Nordstrom
Torrid Microfiber Tights
The Softest Tights (Plus Size)
As we all know, finding a pair of comfortable tights is hardly an easy task. Now, take into account the fact that a lot of hosiery brands don’t offer tights in extended sizes at all. So if you’re looking for a pair of cozy tights that’ll fit just right, these are for you.
The hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 471 reviews on Torrid
What they’re saying: “BUY THESE TIGHTS! These are the first tights I have bought in a loooonnnng time and let me tell you, I don’t regret it! They are comfortable, not completely see through, kept me warm, and are made to last. They fit true to size and I did not have any problems with sagging. Did I mention how soft they are? I’ll be buying another pair.” — Anonymous, Torrid reviewer
Torrid Microfiber Tights, $, available at Torrid
HeyUU Semi Opaque Soft Footed Tights
The Stretchiest Tights
If you hate control top and just want a pair of cheap quality tights that are stretchy and accommodating, HeyUU is for ... uu.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 1,161 reviews on Amazon
What They’re Saying: “Soft tights with a lot of stretch! These are great! They’re very soft and opaque, and they have a ton of stretch. I'm 5’ and about 200 pounds, and though they were a little tight when I first tried them on, they fit perfectly after I walked around a bit. Very happy with these!” — Daniele Hunter, Amazon reviewer
HeyUU Semi Opaque Soft Footed Tights, $, available at Amazon
Wolford Mat Opaque 80 Tights
The “Finishing Powder” Tights
Want the most matte tights that money can buy? Heritage hoisiery house Wolford has perfected the art of anti-shine nylons, and their 80-denier pair is about as velvety as they get.
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 13 reviews on Bloomingdale’s
What They’re Saying: “The 80 denier means these tights are absolutely opaque ... and they really are! They are matte, and so soft. They are awesomely comfortable, and very high quality ... I think I would have to try to rip them. I’m in love. Makes me want to wear more skirts!” — Tiny, Bloomingdale’s reviewer
Wolford Matte Opaque 80 Tights, $, available at Bloomingdale's
Nordstrom Gloss Control Top Pantyhose
The Sheerest Tights
These barely-there nylons are kissed with a bit of shine, perfect for dancing the night away.
The hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars, 40 reviews on Nordstrom
What they’re saying: “These are not your mother’s pantyhose. The silver gloss kicks these into a subtle fashion-forward. One pair has already performed both for me with nary a snag!” — Buddysq, Nordstrom review
Nordstrom Gloss Control Top Pantyhose, $, available at Nordstrom
Autograph 60 Denier Velvet Touch Luxe Tights
The Daily Tights
If your daily attire is dictated by any kind of uniform tights requirement, you’ll probably be wearing a pair of stockings five days a week for a very, very long time. Thankfully, we found a brand of tights that, according to reviews, can be washed daily and still last for at least 6 months.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 104 reviews on Marks & Spencer
What They’re Saying: “This is my third year of buying these tights and I love them. Buy 5 pairs each year and they last all of autumn and winter (I wear them every day and wash them after every use). They wash extremely well and never snag. Minor point, I'm 5’ 1” tall and a size 8/10 but I need to buy a medium size, as the waist band is far too tight and uncomfortable. TOP TIP: After wearing and washing them for a while if they start to bobble or look worn, wear them inside out. They look amazing again and appear brand new. You'll get loads more wear from them.” — Sunseeker Girlie, Marks & Spencer review
Autograph 60 Denier Velvet Touch Luxe Tights, $, available at Marks & Spencer
Falke Soft Merino Wool Blend Tights
The Breathable Tights
When you need the warmth but can do without the sweat; soft, moisture-wicking merino wool is your friend.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 11 reviews on HerRoom
What They’re Saying:
“I wanted tights that were fairly opaque and warm. I was worried about the wool since my skin doesn't react well to wool, but I decided to try the tights and am I glad I did! They are very comfortable, no scratchy wool feel. I was concerned about fit too, since I am a little heavier than the recommended weight, however, I am pleased to say that the tights fit well, no sagging and no worry about too little room or tights creeping down your waist as the day goes on and there is nothing to do about it. The gusset is a great idea. These tights are warm, comfortable, fit well and wear great — I recommend them highly and plan on buying a few more colors.” — Sharon, HerRoom reviewer
Falke Soft Merino Wool Blend Tights, $, available at HerRoom
Calzedonia Diamond Pattern 40 Denier Sheer Tights
The Fashion Flock Tights
The Hype: There aren’t any official “stars” on Calzedonia’s site, but one of our most fashion-forward editors raves about this stylish pair.
What They’re Saying: “I used to pick up Calzedonia tights when I traveled to Milan for fashion week. They were my little secret affordable luxury buy and a worthy work-trip souvenir. The Italian company recently launched a U.S. website and an Amazon storefront so it’s now easier to purchase them. I like these tights because they’re just fashion-forward enough. The novelty designs are subtle and sophisticated. While the houndstooth pair worn by Julia Roberts in a recent campaign are fun, I plan on buying this diamond-pattern set.” — Marissa Rosenblum, Refinery29 VP of Shopping
Calzedonia Diamond Pattern 40 Denier Sheer Tights, $, available at Calzedonia
No-Snag Tights: Hue Styletech Blackout
According to one reviewer, these tights are essentially impossible to tear. Don't believe us? Just look at the proof below.
The hype: 4.1 out of 5 stars and 284 reviews on Amazon
What they're saying: "I'm a news anchor and wear tights with dresses every day to work. These are the best I've ever had. I now own 5 pairs. They are thick, but not to the point of making you hot, and I have yet to get a run in one pair! Most important to me, they withstand many months of continuous wear and washing and hold up amazingly. Best tights I've ever had. Thanks!" — Edubooks, Amazon Review
HUE Styletech Blackout Tights, $, available at Amazon
Sheer But Still Work-Appropriate: Hipstik
If you're looking for sheer but not 10-denier sheer, you've found your tights. Female-owned Hipstiks does what they say they do in the name, sticks to your hips without rolling down or binding with an excessive control top.The hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars and 29 reviews on Hipstik
What they're saying: "I’m so glad I found these tights! Amazing fit and comfortable around the waist. I was afraid that they may run/rip/snag because they seem delicate, but nope! No snags or issues thus far. Very pleased with my purchase!" — Lindsey B, Hipstik review
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Hipstik Black, Sheer Low-rise Pantyhose, $, available at Hipstik
Best For Petites: Uniqlo Heattech Tights
The reason these tights have been dinged down to a 4 despite their overall high marks for quality is because they run short and small — perfect for the petites!The hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 31 reviews on Uniqlo
What they're saying: "It feels great and warm. It's perfect for autumn. It's also perfect shade, no shining nor see-through. I'm petite but mistakenly I ordered L/XL size. It turned out to be just right. So I guess these tights must be running small." — Xixi, Uniqlo review
Uniqlo Heattech Tights, $, available at Uniqlo
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