Hosiery by Material
The material of your hosiery determines its feel, durability, appearance, and appropriate use. Here's everything you need to know about hosiery fibers.
Synthetic Fibers
Nylon
The most common hosiery material, invented in 1938 by DuPont.
- Feel: Smooth, silky
- Durability: Moderate
- Breathability: Low
- Best for: Everyday wear, formal occasions
- Price: Budget to luxury
Lycra / Spandex / Elastane
Stretch fiber blended with other materials. Not used alone.
- Feel: Stretchy, form-fitting
- Durability: Good recovery
- Best for: Control tops, stay-up bands
- Typical blend: 5-20% with nylon
Microfiber
Ultra-fine synthetic fibers, often nylon or polyester.
- Feel: Incredibly soft, velvet-like
- Durability: Excellent
- Breathability: Moderate
- Best for: Opaques, cold weather
- Price: Mid to luxury
Polyester
Affordable synthetic, less common in quality hosiery.
- Feel: Less silky than nylon
- Durability: High
- Breathability: Low
- Best for: Budget options
Natural Fibers
Silk
The original luxury hosiery material, used for centuries.
- Feel: Unmatched smoothness
- Durability: Delicate
- Breathability: Excellent
- Best for: Special occasions, vintage style
- Price: Luxury
- Care: Hand wash only
Cotton
Natural comfort fiber, often in blends or casual styles.
- Feel: Soft, comfortable
- Durability: Good
- Breathability: Excellent
- Best for: Casual tights, socks, sensitive skin
- Note: Often in gussets for comfort
Wool
Traditional cold-weather material.
- Feel: Warm, sometimes scratchy
- Durability: Good
- Breathability: Excellent (temperature regulating)
- Best for: Winter, outdoor activities
- Care: Gentle wash, lay flat to dry
Cashmere
Luxury natural fiber from cashmere goats.
- Feel: Ultra-soft, lightweight warmth
- Durability: Moderate (pills easily)
- Best for: Luxury winter wear
- Price: Premium
Bamboo
Eco-friendly, newer to hosiery market.
- Feel: Silky soft
- Durability: Moderate
- Breathability: Excellent, antimicrobial
- Best for: Sensitive skin, eco-conscious
Material Comparison Chart
| Material | Softness | Durability | Breathable | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nylon | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | $-$$$ |
| Silk | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | $$$$ |
| Microfiber | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | $$-$$$ |
| Wool | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | $$-$$$ |
| Cotton | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | $-$$ |
| Cashmere | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | $$$$ |
Choosing by Need
- Most durable: Microfiber, cotton blends
- Most comfortable: Silk, cashmere, bamboo
- Best for heat: Cotton, bamboo, silk
- Best for cold: Wool, cashmere, thick microfiber
- Best value: Nylon-lycra blends
- Sensitive skin: Cotton, bamboo, silk