RHT (Reinforced Heel and Toe)
RHT stands for Reinforced Heel and Toe—stockings or pantyhose with thicker, stronger fabric at the heel and toe sections. These high-wear areas receive extra reinforcement to extend hosiery lifespan, typically appearing as a slightly darker or opaque section against sheer legs.
What RHT Looks Like
RHT stockings have visible reinforcement:
- Toe: Opaque band covering toes, usually 1-2 inches
- Heel: Thicker section covering heel cup
- Color: Often slightly darker than leg portion
- Shape: Varies—round heel, square toe, etc.
RHT vs. Sandal Toe/STW
| Feature | RHT | Sandal Toe/STW |
|---|---|---|
| Toe section | Reinforced, visible | Sheer, invisible |
| Heel section | Reinforced, visible | May be sheer or reinforced |
| Durability | Higher | Lower |
| With closed shoes | Ideal | Also works |
| With open-toe shoes | Visible, not ideal | Ideal |
Why RHT Exists
The heel and toe are the most vulnerable areas of hosiery:
- Toe: Toenails puncture, shoe friction wears fabric
- Heel: Constant pressure and friction against shoes
- Stress points: More stretching and movement at extremities
Without reinforcement, sheer hosiery often fails first at the toe or heel.
RHT Construction
Reinforced areas are made with:
- Higher denier yarn (thicker)
- Denser knit pattern
- Sometimes cotton blend for absorbency
- Occasionally nylon wrapped with additional fiber
When to Choose RHT
- Closed-toe shoes: Reinforcement hidden inside shoe
- Daily wear: Durability matters for regular use
- Limited budget: Longer-lasting = better value
- Rough toenails: Extra protection against punctures
- Active days: More walking = more wear
When to Skip RHT
- Open-toe shoes: Dark toe band visible
- Backless shoes/mules: Heel reinforcement may show
- "Bare leg" look: Reinforcement breaks the illusion
- Ultra-sheer aesthetic: Consistent sheerness preferred
RHT in Stockings vs. Pantyhose
RHT Stockings
Classic stocking construction—individual stockings with RHT at foot. Common in traditional and vintage styles.
RHT Pantyhose
Most mainstream pantyhose are RHT by default. The standard for everyday wear pantyhose.
Color Matching
RHT sections come in different color relationships to the leg:
- Tonal: Slightly darker version of leg color
- Matching: Same color but different opacity
- Contrast: Black RHT on nude legs (vintage look)
- Shadow toe: Barely visible reinforcement
Durability Boost
RHT stockings typically last 2-3 times longer than sheer-to-toe versions. If you go through hosiery quickly due to toe holes, RHT is worth the slightly less seamless appearance.