On a tights package, you almost always see a number with the DEN designation: 15, 20, 40, 60, 100. This is the simplest indicator of how thick, opaque, and warm the tights will be. In this guide, we explain what DEN exactly means, how different deniers look on the leg, and how to choose tights for the season, outfit, and occasion. At the end, you'll find the answer to the most frequently asked question: 40 or 60 DEN?
What does DEN mean in tights?
DEN (denier) is a unit of linear mass density of yarn. It tells you how many grams 9000 meters of yarn weigh. The heavier the yarn, the thicker it is, and the denser and less transparent the knitted fabric made from it. So, 20 DEN tights are made of thin yarn and are clearly sheer, while 100 DEN tights are made of thick yarn, through which the skin is practically invisible.
It's worth remembering that DEN describes the yarn, not the entire product. How tights look and wear is also influenced by the weave, the type of fiber (polyamide, elastane, microfiber, cotton, wool), and whether the knit is matte or glossy. Therefore, two pairs of 40 DEN from different brands may offer slightly different coverage. However, the DEN number remains the best reference point when choosing.
Tights deniers from 8 to 100 DEN
The table below organizes the most popular deniers. The coverage description is approximate: the shade of the tights, skin color, and lighting can change the effect.
| Denier | Coverage | When to wear |
|---|---|---|
| 8–10 DEN | very sheer, almost invisible | hot weather, elegant summer outfits, closed-toe sandals |
| 15–20 DEN | sheer, slightly evens out skin tone | office, formal events, spring and summer |
| 30 DEN | semi-sheer | transitional days, when 20 DEN is not enough |
| 40 DEN | semi-opaque, leg noticeably darkened | early autumn, cooler spring days |
| 50–60 DEN | opaque, skin only shows through at creases | autumn, mild winter, daily office wear |
| 80–100 DEN | very opaque, matte | winter, skirts and dresses in low temperatures |
| above 100 DEN | completely opaque, often with added cotton or wool | frost, long periods outdoors |
Sheer tights: up to 20 DEN
Sheer tights are primarily meant to smooth the appearance of legs and even out skin tone. They work best in nude, beige, and black shades for elegant outfits. At this denier, the knit is delicate, so runs are more likely. Wearing tights with cotton gloves or with short nails, and avoiding jewelry with sharp edges, helps. You can find sheer models in the sheer tights collection.
Semi-opaque tights: 30–40 DEN
This denier is for the transition between seasons. 40 DEN tights noticeably darken the leg but still leave a slight sheer effect on the calf and knee. They look good with midi dresses, knitted skirts, and ankle boots. They are also more resistant to snags than 15–20 DEN models. See 40 DEN tights.
Opaque tights: 50–60 DEN
At 60 DEN, the leg appears uniformly colored, and the skin only shows through when the knit is stretched tightly, e.g., at the knee when bent. This is a versatile choice for autumn and the office, as these tights are already warm but not so thick that they look bad with lighter footwear. Collection: 60 DEN tights.
Thick tights: 80–100 DEN and above
Thick tights are matte and fully opaque, making them go well with boots, thick sweaters, and wool skirts. Thicker yarn insulates better, so these are suitable for winter. Models with added cotton are more pleasant to the touch, and those with wool provide extra warmth. You'll find a selection in the 100 DEN tights and opaque tights collections.
40 or 60 DEN? The most common dilemma
The difference between 40 and 60 DEN is visible to the naked eye, although both deniers often end up in the same drawer. Three questions can help with the choice:
- What effect do you want to achieve? If you want the skin to show through slightly and the outfit to be lighter, choose 40 DEN. If you want the leg to appear uniformly colored, choose 60 DEN.
- What's the weather like? 40 DEN is a good choice for September and October, or April. In November and during cold winter days, 60 DEN will be more suitable.
- What shoes and clothes? 40 DEN pairs well with pumps and lighter dresses. For ankle boots, knee-high boots, and thicker fabrics like tweed or wool, 60 DEN is a better match.
If you only need to buy one pair for autumn, 60 DEN is a safer choice: it provides coverage, warmth, and still looks elegant.
What else to consider when choosing tights
Size
Poorly chosen size shortens the life of tights more than anything else. Tights that are too small are overly stretched, making them more sheer than the DEN number indicates and more prone to tearing. Tights that are too large wrinkle at the ankles and knees. Manufacturers provide size charts based on height and weight or hip circumference. Always check the chart for the specific brand. People for whom standard sizes do not fit will find models in the plus size tights collection.
Composition
Most tights are polyamide with elastane. Elastane is responsible for fit and shape retention. Microfiber tights are soft and matte, and 3D models are knitted to distribute thickness evenly over the entire leg. For higher deniers, you will also find added cotton or wool, which improves thermal comfort.
Finish
Pay attention to the waistband (a wide, flat waistband digs in less), the gusset (a cotton gusset is more comfortable against the skin), and the toes (reinforced or invisible, for sandals). Shaping models have a stronger knit in the panty area.
Patterned tights
Patterned tights, e.g., with polka dots, stripes, or a geometric motif, are usually sheer or semi-opaque. The pattern adds character to an outfit, so it's best to combine them with plain clothes. You'll find models in the patterned tights collection.
How to care for tights to make them last longer
- Hand wash in lukewarm water with a mild detergent or machine wash in a laundry bag on a delicate cycle.
- Do not wring. Squeeze out excess water with a towel and dry flat or hung, away from radiators.
- Do not use a tumble dryer or fabric softeners, which can weaken elastane.
- Before putting them on, remove rings and roll the leg down to the toes, then unroll it gradually upwards.
- Store tights separately, e.g., in a bag, so they don't snag on zippers and hooks of other clothes.
Frequently asked questions about DEN
Does more DEN mean tights are more durable?
Usually, yes, because thicker yarn is less prone to snags. However, durability also depends on the composition, knit quality, and size fit.
What DEN for office work?
In summer, 15–20 DEN in nude or black, in autumn and winter 40–60 DEN. In companies with a formal dress code, sheer, plain tights are the safest.
What tights for winter?
From 80–100 DEN upwards, preferably with added cotton or wool. In freezing temperatures, it's also worth considering thermal models or wearing thinner tights under thicker ones.
You can find a selection of all deniers in the tights collection. If you're unsure which size to choose, visit our how to choose your size page.