An important part of being a flight attendant is the correct wearing of the uniform and tights are an integral part of that.
I’ve spent more than 11 years trying to figure out what is the best hosiery for flight attendants to wear, so today I’m going to talk to you about my favorites.
Gentlemen cabin crew can stop reading beyond this point if they have suddenly lost interest 😉
Table of Contents
Do flight attendants have to wear tights?
Yes.
Most airlines, or at least the ones I know, require flight attendants to wear pantyhose.
This is because it looks more professional, it’s smarter and it adds an element of decorum and modesty.
Your tights don’t need to be any specific brand, but they will need to be a specific shade and sometimes even a specific thickness.
What are the rules for flight attendant hosiery?
This is an example of what United Airlines requires in their uniform standards for flight attendants:
- Must be worn at all times with the uniform.
- Acceptable shades include flesh tones and sheer black.
- White, opaque, textured or patterned hosiery/tights are not permitted.
- Plain black tights may be worn from October 15–April 15.
- Solid black trouser socks may be worn instead of hosiery only when wearing the pants.
- Extra hosiery is to be carried
This is an example of Qatar Airlines hosiery rules:
- Hosiery (Stockings/ Tights) must be plain
- Matt in skin tone (neutral, beige or tan)
- Constantly check for holes and ladders
- Must be worn when in uniform
- If stockings are worn, the garter belt must not be visible through the skirt
- Knee-highs are permitted when using trousers
- Ankle length socks are not permitted with trousers
- Always carry a spare pair of hosiery
What tights do flight attendants wear?
These are the different types of tights that most flight attendants wear:
For summer
Hold up stockings or just regular sheer pantyhose in a matte, satin, glossy, or ultra glossy finish, it really depends on what your preference is.
If you are going for nude tights, try to get the closest color to your skin tone in a lighter denier.
For summer, 10 would be the perfect denier, but to prevent ladders and pulls, it’s safer to choose 20-30 deniers*
*Denier is the thickness of the fabric in your hosiery. Usually, the thicker the material, the higher the denier. Denier is also a measurement of the opacity of the tights. Any denier that is 40 and higher is usually opaque and not see-through.
For winter
We’d use 40+ deniers tights because they are generally more resistant to tears and warm and cozy for the winter.
This is how it works for the opacity:
20 – 40 denier: sheer or semi-opaque. Skin visibility is possible.
40 – 70 denier: opaque. They have more coverage and less skin visibility.
70 – 100 denier: thick opaque. They provide more coverage and are the tights of choice in colder weather
Over 100 denier: super thick opaque. These are great alternatives for leggings during winter months.
Shaping tights
These have a somewhat magical ability to give you a smooth, shapely and beautiful figure by supporting your tummy, thigh and whatever else may not be staying where you’d like it to.
Actually, there is a bit of science behind this. Our bodies tend to expand in the lower cabin pressure of an airplane. So shaping tights are good to keep you in control in all the right places.
If you want the comfort and fit of tights but you need something with a little extra support, these are the tights for you.
Compression support tights
These are recommended for professions where you stand or sit the whole day, so they are ideal for us flight attendants.
So they are definitely a must-have for all flight attendants.
They are actually really popular among all cabin crew and they are used to prevent the swelling of veins, the possible clotting of blood, and help prevent aching and swelling legs.
How to choose the right stockings? Buying guide
Find your perfect size
Do you constantly need to pull up your tights?
You know where I’m going with this, right?
Yep. Pick the right size when buying your tights.
Now, a heads up here.
Despite promises that one size fits all, this isn’t true. There isn’t a single size for tights that fits everybody, it’s just not possible.
So you do need to check that the size you are choosing is appropriate for your height and body size.
Because you’ll need them for work, look for tights that are ladder-resistant. Compression tights are the best for this. The ones that have a higher denier will be more difficult to ladder.
Find the right thickness
Remember what we said about denier?
This is the thickness of the tights and is usually listed on the packaging.
The higher the denier, the more opaque and thick the tights. It’s an easy thing to get your head around.
Generally, anything under 30 denier is sheer and light, between 40 and 70 denier is opaque and quite thick, and over 70 denier is super opaque and mega thick.
You decide what you want or need, it’s your call.
Look for good quality tights
They will last longer, be more comfortable and look more beautiful.
You don’t want to spend all your salary on hosiery because you need to constantly buy new ones after a couple of washings.
So after I have tried and tested a lot of different brands and spent many years deciding which ones are the best flight attendant tights I’ve made my own list.
I hope you can find one that works for you.
The best flight attendant tights
We will start with the Number 1 and most recommended tights :
1) Compression tights for women or men
Compression tights are worn by a wide range of professionals who have to stand and walk for long periods of time, people such as athletes, nurses, and, of course, us flight attendants.
These tights are designed to provide graduated compression, meaning that they are tight at the feet and gradually loosen as they travel up the leg.
To me, they are the best tights for flight attendants and these are the reasons why:
- They will keep your legs from getting tired and aching after constant changes in air pressure. But it has to be said that they only can help relieve those symptoms to a degree. Once you’re home or at the hotel, you should put your legs up against the wall for at least 20 minutes. That sounds a bit weird, I know, but it will help you a lot.
- This style of tights can also ease swelling in your feet and ankles as well as prevent varicose veins.
- They improve circulation
- They are more durable than normal tights. Trust me I’m a noted destroyer of tights and I know this!
I have been wearing these sorts of tights for a few years now and there is no way back for me.
I honestly feel a big difference between these tights and the normal ones.
In the beginning, you may need to get used to them, but after a few days, you’ll feel much better, comfortable, with your legs less tired.
I can be on my feet up to 12 hrs a flight and still feel ok. If I am this style of tights. Even though they are a bit more expensive, they last without a run and they always keep their shape.
What you need to know before buying compression tights
Compression level:
What compression level do you need? I have listed the various compression levels for you below.
So how tight should compression stockings be?
Compression tights should feel tight, otherwise, your circulation will not be affected at all. But, of course, not painfully tight. You should still remain comfortable standing and working on your feet.
These are the standard pressure levels for compression stockings:
15-20 mmHg: a great choice for everyday use to help with mild swelling and fatigued legs due to long periods of travel, sitting, or standing. Very light compression. These are the ones you find in department stores or drugstores.
20-30 mmHg (medical class 1): This the compression level that I use. It provides competent medium compression to your legs without being too strong and is recommended for long periods of standing and sitting. So, perfect for us flight attendants.
30-40 mmHg (medical class 2): Provides firm compression. This level is recommended for moderate to severe leg health problems, to help relieve edema, severe varicose veins, and lymphedema.
40-50 mmHg (medical class 3): Provides extra firm compression. These stockings should only be worn when prescribed by a doctor, to use if you suffer from serious leg or vein-related conditions.
When choosing a compression level, a lighter compression level may be more effective for you than a stronger level of compression.
Here’s my list of favorite light and medium compression pantyhose and socks.
Best light compression pantyhose and stockings
PANTYHOSE:
- Futuro Pantyhose for Women, Mild Compression, Medium, Nude, Helps Improves Circulation to Help Minimize Swelling
- Allegro premium sheer pantyhose offers preventative compression with a professional look to give you protection when you most need it. Reduce lower leg swelling and fatigue throughout the day while still looking great!
- Features: Therapeutic 8-15mmHg prevent lower leg swelling and tired and ache legs. Also, Allegro protects against vascular insufficiencies such as, spider and varicose veins, DVT, and blood clots.
- Design: Allegro Sheer Support pantyhose feature a light control top with a one-inch double-plush waist band and closed toe. They have a reciprocated heel for better fit cotton/nylon ventilated crotch and balloon toe for added comfort.
- Design: Allegro Sheer Support pantyhose feature a light control top with a one-inch double-plush waist band and closed toe. They have a reciprocated heel for better fit cotton/nylon ventilated crotch and balloon toe for added comfort.
- Truform 1765; Ladies fashion style support hose; dress nylons; 8-15 strength graduated compression
- Flat seams for inconspicuous fit; Knit heel pocket keeps sock in place; Lightweight breathable
- Improves circulation for extended sitting, standing, travel, pregnancy, muscle recovery, swollen feet
- Helps relieve mild swelling; Helps prevent formation of varicose veins, spider veins, DVT blood clots
- Made in the USA; Measure according to size chart; Latex-Free; Nylon and Spandex construction
STOCKINGS:
- Truform 1764; Ladies fashion style support hose; dress nylons; 15-20 strength graduated compression
- Lace trim top band with silicone grip liner; Knit heel pocket keeps sock in place; Breathable
- Improves circulation for extended sitting, standing, travel, pregnancy, muscle recovery, swollen feet
- Helps relieve mild swelling; Helps prevent formation of varicose veins, spider veins, DVT blood clots
- Made in the USA; Measure according to size chart; Latex-Free; Nylon and Spandex construction
Best medium compression pantyhose and stockings:
PANTYHOSE:
- Why choose DCCDU Medical Grade Compression pantyhose? Approved! Utilizing specialized fabricating machinery and medical grade fabrics we are able to create a high quality compression pantyhose
- 20-30 mmHg Therapeutic Firm Support,Graduated Gradient Compression Design.Massages and energizes tired, achy legs and helps prevent and treat: fatigue, pain, stiffness, soreness, swelling, cramps, shin splints, varicose veins, lymphedema, phlebitis, DVT (deep vein thrombosis), blood clots and plantar fasciitis
- Comfortable for all day, everyday use. Premium stay up top leaves no marks. Ideal thickness to fit any shoe. Discreet and stylish design for walking, sitting, standing, travel and all attire from casual to work, dress or formal
- 2023 Upper Grade .High-elastic mciro fiber are delicate, soft, velvety, stronger and do not rub at heels to make them 3-D design, perfectly fit your leg.Exquisite workmanship to prevent crotch from splitting，Latex free
- Silky, smooth-knit texture and soft stay-up top designed for wearing comfort; flexible but snug fit ensures compression pantyhose remains in place throughout the day
STOCKINGS:
- 🌸THERAPEUTIC EFFECT: Beister will bring you well-designed compression support stockings that provides graduated compression from the heel to upper leg. Therapeutic compression hosiery which promotes blood circulation, helps relieve tired, aching, fatigued legs. Ideal for treatment of varicose and spider veins, diabetic support, long flights and general swelling or inflammation of the legs and feet.
- 🌸COMFORT & DURABLE: Opaque and durable stocking created with your comfort in mind for both men and women. Utilizing Germany specialized fabricating machinery and medical grade fabrics, we are able to create a higher quality compression sock in a great value. The fabrics keep an optimal temperature and good air permeability with soft feeling for all-day wearing comfort.
- 🌸GRADUARED COMPRESSION: The 5 intervals of 20-30 mmHg graduated compression deliver a compression action to the leg that is greatest at the ankle, decreasing gradually up the leg, towards the heart. It helps reduce and prevent swelling for the wearer, maintaining positive circulation and leg health. Its level of compression is comfortable and safe, perfect for use after surgery.
- 🌸HUMANIZED DETAIL: Flexible but snug in wider cuff with silicone dot band helps the socks remain in place throughout the day. Closed toe styles designed with a roomy toe does not compress toes, preventing pains. Reinforced heel is designed for long lasting durability and comfort. Thicker, ultra-stretchy fabric is for donning easily.
- 🌸CUSTOMER ARE OUR PRIORITY: We offer 100% no risk money back guarantee if you’re not thrilled with your purchase for any reason. Just tell us and we will do our best to give you the most satisfactory solution. Available in 5 different sizes to ensure you receive the focused support and muscle fatigue relief that you need. Size vary from difference brands. Use the size chart on the picture as a reference. If your measurements are between sizes, go to a bigger size.
Best compression knee-highs or socks:
For men or women who prefer to wear pants for work.
Men:
- Lightweight fabric and extremely soft yarns deliver unparalleled comfort.
- Available in a variety of colors, you have the benefits of a compression garment, without sacrificing style.
- Wide knee bands comfortably keep your socks in place, ensuring they don't slip or slide down as you move.
- Reinforced toes and heel pockets add durability while comfortably conforming to your feet.
- Vein therapy helps relieve symptoms of moderate-to-severe leg pain and/or varicose veins or moderate ankle swelling
- Graduated compression improves circulation with maximum compression at the ankle that gradually decreases up the leg to provide a restoring feeling
- Massage-in-motion massages tired, achy legs as you move
- Size : Large
Women:
- Moderate Compression (8-15 mm/Hg)
- Helps relieve symptoms of superficial spider veins or mild varicose veins
- Ideal for standing or sitting all day, traveling or active office work
- Reinforced toe, heel and durable run guard for lasting wear
- Graduated compression helps improve circulation
- 🇮🇹 support knee highs (1 pair) with firm graduated compression of 20-30 mmHg., 100% Made in Italy
- 🇮🇹 Ideal for the treatment for varicose veins, phlebitis, oedemas, thrombosis, and chronic venous insufficiency.
- 🇮🇹 Ideal after surgery to help prevent blood clots.
- 🇮🇹 Reinforced heel and toe for maximum comfort, durability and fit - High quality,
- 🇮🇹 For CORRECT SIZING, please refer to the SIZE CHART included with IMAGES.
2) Top control pantyhose
- Nylon, Spandex
- Silk reflections control top panty hose
- Hand wash
- Imported
- Colors may vary slightly from image pictured
- Control top panty
- Encourages circulation and helps prevent leg fatigue
- Beautiful sheer support leg
- Sheer toe
- 30 denier appearance
- 88% nylon, 12% spandex
- Country of origin: Imported
- Care: Hand wash cold and line dry.
- Run Resistant tights ,high waist, but extra control up.
- Regular panty hose comfortable and fashion perfect for everyday.
- Machine wash,Remarkably Comfortable and More Durable.
- Solid Color 70 Denier Tights,super opaque pantyhose.
- Size:X-small;small;medium;large;x-large. Color: 2 pairs black.
I’m a huge fan of opaque tights.
These are black and if you do have tattoos, marks, or hair on your legs that you need to cover up, these are perfect.
And these also provide a bit compressive from the belly button to the thigh, but just lightly.
3) Slimming pantyhose
- Our slimming tights provide a lifting effect for the buttocks, enhancing the overall appearance. Available in classic black and 2 shades of skin tone.
- These shaping stockings are made from high-quality, breathable, and stretchy fabric for comfort and flexibility. You can wear them under skirts, dresses, pants and shorts.
- These butt lifting hose for women are available in various denier options for different levels of opacity and warmth. You can enjoy wearing them all year long.
- Our shapewear hosiery will give a polished look to your outfit and guarantee comfortable all-day wear. Durable and long-lasting, they maintain their shape and compression over time.
- Excellent shape control from Mila Marutti collection. Get an instant confidence boost by enhancing the silhouette and creating a polished look. Designed and manufactured in Europe.
- Style Number: FH3915.
- Step up your legwear game with the ultimate tight! These tights are designed with a built-in mid-thigh shaper and a premium power leg to provide a luxurious feel and great recovery. Say goodbye to muffin-top and hello to a firmer butt and thighs.
- Available in regular and plus sizes.
- BUILT-IN SHAPING - Comfortable mid-thigh shaper flattens the stomach, firms the butt, and smooths the thighs.
- NO DIG - Soft waistband won't dig in.
Designed to flatten the stomach, firm the butt, and smooth the thighs.
4) Most comfortable non-control tights
- Sleek nylon/spandex knit clings to your every curve for fabulous custom fit
- Imported
- So soft you'll swear it's silk!
- silky sheer non-control top sandalfoot.
- Cool cotton/nylon liner.
- Footed tight
- Subtle shimmer finish
- Dyed to match CoolMax gusset
- Sewn on no-roll waistband
Dancer tights have softer waistbands that don’t dig into the skin, the fabric is thick enough for good coverage and it lets skin breathe.
- Matte opaque tights with Commando's signature invisible waist.
5) Low waist pantyhose
If you want to get rid of that waistband that is squeezing you, try low waist pantyhose, they sit on your hip, so they’ll be much more comfortable.
They are available in sheer and opaque versions.
6) Designer/Luxury Pantyhose
- Luxurious Satin Finish: Wolford Satin Opaque 50 Denier Tights feature a luxurious satin finish that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit, making them perfect for special occasions or everyday wear.
- Superior Coverage and Opacity: With a denier count of 50, these tights offer excellent coverage and opacity, providing a smooth and even appearance on the legs, while concealing imperfections and blemishes.
- Soft and Comfortable: Crafted from high-quality materials, these tights are designed to be soft and comfortable, ensuring a pleasant wearing experience throughout the day. The waistband is gentle on the skin, preventing irritation or digging in.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Wolford Satin Opaque 50 Denier Tights are known for their durability and long-lasting quality. The strong and resilient fibers are resistant to runs and tears, ensuring they stand up to everyday wear and washing.
- Versatile Styling Options: Whether paired with skirts, dresses, or shorts, these tights offer versatile styling options. They add a polished and sophisticated touch to any ensemble, allowing you to create various looks for work, parties, or casual outings.
- A perfect style for every day. These semi-sheer tights feel like a second skin. A light shimmer allows for a silky and contemporary look.
- Almost invisible toe reinforcement
- Knitted waistband with logo
- Pure and elegant shimmer
- Barely visible shadow toe reinforcement
- Soft and comfortable knitted waistband
- 88% nylon, 12% elastane
- Cold, gentle machine or hand wash
I wouldn’t recommend less than 20 deniers for use on the plane as they will rip at any moment.
7) Microfibre pantyhose
![sofsy Black Tights for Women Opaque Pantyhose Stockings Nylons | Black Small 1/pack [Made In Italy]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31dyxdTv8XL.jpg)
- | Made in Italy | sofsy produces all of her hosiery in northern Italy, entrusting only the world's most expert hands and never using anything other than the highest quality yarns specially developed for you, our deserving clientele.
- | Concealing & Opaque | The Rita was specially developed in a 40 denier opaque knit with one mission in mind, to Conceal - from Varicose Veins, Stretch Marks, Cellulite, Scars, Birthmarks or Tattoos, she won't fail you. If you fall between sizes, always purchase the larger size to maximize the concealing effect.
- | Supremely Soft & Stretchy | Whether you've been on your feet for 8hrs at dance rehearsals, you're simply sitting in a meeting at work or it's 3am at a halloween party, you're drunk and falling through bushes doing your best Uma Thurman Poison Ivy Impression, we designed The Rita to be your partner in crime, in any situation.
- | Consistent Knit | After studying many pairs of classic pantyhose then discussing what we loved and of course, what we hated, we decided to remove the panty design, instead opting for a more modern, consistent knit, from toe to waistband.
- | Solid Color Matte Finish | Our Rita has a gorgeous matte finish and comes in 29 unique solid colors. From a range of Skin Tone Color Tights to suit Dark Skin Tones and Fair Skin Tones alike then onto many varieties of Green, Blue, Purple, Pink, Red, Orange and Yellow Tights
The microfibre pantyhose are the softest things you’ll ever touch. Smooth, comfortable and durable
Thank you Coral,
Well done, comprehensive, and informative. Thank you for your inside and advice.
I have been a big fan of Futuro French Cut compression tights on XL size as well Warner’s Seamless Tights XL which are right now almost impossible to find.
I started purchasing seamless tights from Caledonia, getting my first pair by courier tonight. I do feel that seamless pantyhose or tights are better designed for the male anatomy. They have a wide stomach/hips band that keeps them in place.
Thank you again. Henry