Runs and Ladders
A run (called a ladder in British English) is a vertical line of unraveled stitches in hosiery. Once started, runs can quickly travel the length of the garment, making them a common frustration.
Terminology
| US Term | UK Term |
|---|---|
| Run | Ladder |
| Snag | Snag |
| Hole | Hole |
What Causes Runs
Mechanical Damage
- Sharp fingernails
- Rough skin/hangnails
- Jewelry catching
- Rough surfaces
- Shoe edges
Quality Issues
- Poor construction
- Low-quality yarn
- Manufacturing defects
- Old/degraded material
Prevention Tips
Putting On
- Smooth hands, filed nails
- Remove jewelry first
- Gather fabric, roll up slowly
- Don't pull from top
During Wear
- Check shoe edges
- Avoid rough surfaces
- Be careful sitting
- Mind desk edges
Emergency Fixes
Stop a Run
- Clear nail polish on edges
- Hairspray (temporary)
- Fashion tape
- Don't touch/stretch it
Will NOT Work
- Nail polish won't fix existing run
- Can't really repair mid-leg runs
- Often need to replace
Run-Resistant Options
- Run-resistant construction
- Higher denier tights
- Opaque styles
- Quality brands
- Reinforced areas
Fashion Statement
Intentional Ladders
- Punk/grunge aesthetic
- Deliberately distressed
- Edgy style choice
- Not accidental damage
Cost Considerations
- Sheers run more easily
- Quality reduces runs
- Price vs. longevity tradeoff
- Keep spares for emergencies
When to Discard
- Large visible runs
- Multiple runs
- Runs in visible areas
- Beyond repair
Keep in Bag
- Spare pair always
- Clear nail polish
- Emergency kit for runs