What Is the Difference Between Tights and Leggings

Some people use the terms “leggings” and “tights” interchangeably. However, these are different garments that are not interchangeable. Although they have some things in common (most notably, they’re both form-fitting), there are significant differences (opaqueness, or degree they can be see-through, is key).

Let’s look closer:

What Are Leggings?

Odds are, you own a pair (or two, or three of leggings). Maybe you call them yoga pants or workout leggings.

Basically, leggings are opaque (not see-through) skin-tight pants. They usually pull on and off (no zipper or other fastening) and while they may have pockets and other accents, most are unadorned with any pockets or seams beyond the seam that runs around the inner legs.

Leggings are usually made of cotton and lycra, though they now come in an astonishing range of finishes (shiny, matt), lengths (ankle and cropped), colors, cuts and even materials (from plain cotton to denim-looking “jeggings” and even leather).

For the most part though, when people say ‘leggings’, they’re thinking about a classic black neutral piece. Let’s explore more!

What Are Tights?

Tights are different from leggings and are usually considered part of your underwear rather than an item of clothing.

For one, they’re usually much more opaque (even thicker tights will usually have some degree of see-through). It’s worth noting that tights come with different degrees of opaqueness, often identified as the “denier” of the tights. While underwear with a very thin denier is often referred to as “pantyhose”, the term “tights” usually refers to a thicker stocking. And of course tights encapsulate your feet too.

While both tights and leggings can be used for layering (e.g. you can wear leggings under a dress as an alternative to pantyhose), tights are not designed to be worn as ‘pants’ the way leggings can be. The gusset and seams are not generally designed to be on display (never mind the fact they’re usually more see-through than you’d want your outerwear to be).

Like leggings, tights can come in different designs and colours. You can have lace, wool and nylon and fishnet tights, to name a few. They can be very sheer or thick (again usually identified by the denier). They can even be embellished with crystals and other adornments.

Tights are also usually more fragile than leggings. They can catch and tear more easily. For the most part, we think of tights as a finishing touch to an outfit, rather than part of the outfit.

At-a-Glance: Leggings Vs Tights

Let’s quickly summarize the key differences of leggings vs tights:

The Difference Between Leggings and Tights 

What to Look for When Shopping for Leggings

Length Is a Consideration

Leggings generally come in different lengths and different brands will label those lengths differently. Basically, you’ll have full length, ankle length, and cropped. Basically, be clear on the look you’re going for. Do you want to show a little ankle? Do you want to show a little bit of your lower calf? Or do you want full coverage? When you find a legging you love, you might want it in different lengths. 

...As Is Rise

Similar to jeans, leggings come in high, medium and low rise. Again, this is a personal choice. Some women love feeling held in by a high rise legging (especially when they’re doing activities that involve a lot of bends, like yoga). Others like to show a little midriff and opt for a medium rise. Your taste in jeans is a good indicator here, as is the activity you’ll be wearing leggings for. When all else fails, go for comfort.

Look for Other Features, Like Moisture-Wicking

The benefits of compression can be offset if you get hot and sweaty and the material doesn’t also wick away that moisture. So look for moisture wicking (or sweat wicking) fabrics too. That way, you’re not just compressed but will stay cool and dry a well, which will help prevent chafing.

Do You Want Compression?

Compression materials put pressure on different parts of the body (the amount of pressure can vary). Some compression garments are all-over compression and some (like Knix leggings) have compression zones.

The purpose of the compression pressure is to improve blood circulation, which can help with athletic performance, reduce fatigue and even aid with muscle recovery. Compression leggings usually look “sportier” than regular leggings. They will usually have a thicker waist band and are often high rise. You may notice more panels on the legs. Materials will look less like 100% cotton and you’ll probably notice greater elasticity, which may make these items look much smaller on the hanger.

Learn more about compression here.

Pay Attention to Seams

Leggings are great for preventing inner thigh chafing as the material creates a physical barrier to prevent friction, However, seams can sometimes cause chafing too. So pay attention to how seams are cut and look for seams that are offset on the inner leg so they don’t constantly rub together.

Cheap Leggings Can Become See-Through

Unfortunately, as with so many things in life: Buyer beware the cheapest option. Often, cheaper leggings are the leggings that will become transparent after a few washes. Or they will lose their shape, becoming baggy in the ass or legs. You may also find the color fades, so your perfect black leggings soon become a sad grey version of themselves.

So, if you want leggings that will hold their shape, color and opaqueness, spend a little more. You’ll be the best judge here. But do try leggings on and keep an eye on them as they wash. Soon you’ll be able to separate the real deal from the pretenders.

Check Out Knix Leggings!

If you’re on the hunt for leggings, look no further!

Our leggings come in seasonal colors, but basic black is by far the most popular and versatile. Our seamless leggings put comfort first. They’re made with 360-knit BlissFit™ Fabric for body-hugging smoothness that moves with your body.

Plus, when it comes to compression, we’re here to support (yep, pun intended). A ribbed waistband for gentle compression that smooths and holds your tummy. 

Finally, they’re as versatile as they come. Perfect for lounging, for layering with whatever ensemble you’re putting together and, of course, as activewear. The flattering high rise silhouette is easy to style and easy to wear inside and outside.

Check out all our leggings here.