Hosiery Review - Indestructible Tights

There are times when I marvel at all the new pantyhose brands I see advertised online. I want to try most of them, and I'm excited to see what new styles and trends arrive in the future. You can imagine how hard I geeked out when I saw the ads for Indestructible Tights. They were sheer, glossy and, well, indestructible. What more could I ask for? How about a $10 price tag? I was hooked. I bought 3 pair right there on the spot. 

Unboxing

 
There are also times when I am disgusted by the business practices I see from online vendors.

 This is an example of such a time.

Where To Begin?

I suppose some backstory would be best.

I have bought from Shein, Temu and Wish, many times. I have ordered more pantyhose from Shein than you can see on an average day at Walmart or JC Penney. They promised to be "ultra" glossy, sheer, rip-resistant, you name it. With few exceptions, they all sent me the same product -- cheaply made, virtually opaque, semi-glossy tights that don't stay up for anything or anyone.

I've learned my lesson about buying hosiery from these Chinese online stores. I won't do it anymore. Although I love the glossy aspect of them, how they feel super slippery and slinky on my legs, I just hate how they slip down constantly. Even when I pull them up as high as the waistband will stretch, within 15 minutes, that darn waistband is back at my waist (hey, what's in a name?). Worse than that, if I leave the waistband at my waist, where it is happy to stay for a while, the sagging duties transfer to the crotch of the tights. Before long, I have a pocket between my legs large enough to keep my winter hat and gloves in when I'm indoors.

Fast forward to a couple weeks ago. Having ordered my Indestructible Tights on the same day that I ordered my Noosh, Sheertex  and Les Belles tights, I assumed all of them would arrive within a day or two of each other 3. When the Noosh, Sheertex and Les Belles packages were all in my possession, I decided to check the tracking on the Indestructible Tights. I was disappointed to learn that, not only were they being shipped from China, but they hadn't even been shipped yet. I patiently waited until the next Monday, then contacted their customer support via email. I had paid an extra $12 for "expedited" shipping, and couldn't fathom how 3 other brands had managed to get my order in my hands faster than they did, when all 3 of them shipped my tights for free. 

To their credit, the customer service response was prompt. To my great dismay, it was also not what I was hoping to hear. Rather than refunding my $12 "expedited" shipping fee, I was informed that "expedited" shipping meant I would receive my order within 10-12 days of it being shipped, which wasn't until almost a week after I placed the order. So now, the "expedited" time frame was 2-3 weeks. I've had orders from Shein (with free shipping) arrive faster than that, from China. The rep informed me that they would process a refund if my order didn't arrive by the 12th day. Care to guess when it arrived? If you guessed "on the 12th day," congratulations.

If that nightmare weren't enough, I took the first pair of tights out of the package, and my heart immediately sank. 

These  are EXACTLY the same tights I used to buy from Shein for less than $2 per pair, and see in my mailbox in under 2 weeks with free shipping.

Same silky, slinky feel. Same nearly-opaque thickness. Same super-stretchy-ness.

Based mostly in denial, I decided to try them on anyway. I wore them for a total of about 30 minutes. In that time, I had to pull them up no less than a dozen times. The penultimate incidence of this, the back crotch seam came unraveled, and the tights split wide open. So much for "indestructible."

Final Thoughts

These tights are a ripoff. It's that simple. If you want to buy tights identical to these, just order them from Shein or Temu. You'll pay a lot less, receive them faster, and feel like less of a fool for having bought them.

If you do buy them, order at least one size bigger than the size chart indicates, and buy a nice pair of suspenders to keep them from sliding off your body.

 

Hosiery Review = Les Belles #1

Today, I'm reviewing Les Belles seamless tights, style "Sheer 03" with the classic belt (this will come up again later). The photo above shows the cute sateen bag the tights arrived in. What ever will I do with this bag now? The possibilities are endless...

First Impressions

The packaging was cute. Just a small plastic bag with "Les Belles" printed on one side and a zipper top. Nothing over the top, but it protects the tights from snags while in transit.

The tights themselves felt very soft and a bit thicker than the 20 denier advertised. The material is fairly smooth, and the seamless panty looks pretty standard for seamless tights.

There didn't appear to be any reinforcement on the toes, but the material does seem fairly strong, so ripping through the toes with my ever-growing foot-claws isn't too much of a concern.

Trying On

When gathering the first leg, these pantyhose seemed like they'd be too tight to fit me. Much like the Noosh tights I reviewed a couple weeks ago, this turned out to not be true, as they slid up my legs easily and glided into place without too much effort.

The Fit

As I mentioned, these tights slid on pretty easily, and the waistband ended up right at my waist. The back didn't pull up as far as the front, which I found concerning, and my concern was well founded.

After wearing the tights for about half an hour, walking through the grocery store, I could feel the waistband sliding down in the back. By the time I got back to my car, my derriere was completely uncovered. 

Believing that maybe I hadn't pulled the tights up correctly when I put them on, I drove home, then pulled them up again, from the ankles all the way up to the waistband, but my butt still didn't feel adequately covered. Perhaps opting for the "high" belt would have been a better choice.

The Finish

Here's the good news. These tights look absolutely gorgeous. The finish is smooth, even and just sheer enough for my natural skintone to show through. This shade, 03, is a light suntan shade, but doesn't make my legs look overly brown, or worse, orange.

The color distribution is excellent, and the non-reinforced toes are great for showing off my pedi and toe jewelry.

Final Thoughts

I wanted to love these tights. I really did, but the fact that I have to constantly pull them up over my backside is truly infuriating. I don't have a disproportionately large bum, and I've worn seamless pantyhose that haven't fallen down (Noosh FTW).

These tights do look amazing on my legs, and they're quite comfy, waistband notwithstanding.

Overall, I'd give the Les Belles Sheer 03 tights a 7 out of 10. I'll buy another pair in the future, with the high belt, to see if it makes any difference, but as for this pair, $27 + shipping out the window.

Photos

 

Fresh out of the packet

 

Don't they look beautiful?

 

Even with flats !

Hosiery Review -- Sheertex

Today, I'm reviewing the Classic Sheer Rip Resist Tights by Sheertex! This is my first experience with this brand, so I'm excited to take them for a spin.

 If you're like me, you've seen ads on social media for Sheertex for years. They claim their tights are indesctructible. At least they used to claim that. Now they claim that their tights are "rip resistant," which doesn't exactly justify their hefty price tag. 

Back when Sheertex was new on the hosiery scene, they cost around $100 per pair. Let that sink in for a moment. $100 for a single pair of nylons. I watched various YouTube personalities shell out a Benjamin to review these pantyhose, and the reviews were overwhelmingly positive, but I still couldn't bring myself to spend that kind of money on a pair of tights, even if they were truly unbreakable, and I could wear them every day for the rest of my days. 

As with any new technology, the pioneers pay the freight so the rest of us can enjoy the product at a more reasonable price point, and such was the case with Sheertex. These days, you can take advantage of one sale or another and get your hands on a pair for around $35 (sometimes as low as $30). That's a price point I can begrudgingly  get on board with, as I did with the Noosh tights I reviewed last week at $32 (if you haven't read that review, you can follow this link to see it).

Anyway, on with the review of these Sheertex tights!

Packaging

 The packaging is straightforward, a paperboard box with a plastic packet inside, which contains the actual tights. Sheertex has become known for the photo on the outside of the box, featuring a pair of scissors open within the leg of a pair of nylons (presumably Sheertex), with the nylons not ripping or breaking.

 

First Impressions

Upon removing these pantyhose from their packet, I immediately noticed how thick they seemed, especially compared to the Noosh tights I wore for my last review. I also noticed the green line across the waistband, another Sheertex trademark. It doesn't really add anything to the experience, but it distinguishes these tights from other brands rather well.

The fabric isn't exactly buttery smooth, but also not rough and scratchy, like you'd find with a lot of cheap pantyhose. 

The waistband is very wide and thick, which is a game changer if you're looking to smooth and  sculpt your midsection.

The Fit

There must be something with these $30+ tights! As with the Noosh Play Sheer tights I reviewed last week, the Sheertex tights fit like a glove. They didn't sag or bunch up at my ankles. The waistband came up to just under my bustline, and that's where it stayed until I moved it. A++

These pantyhose have slightly reinforced toes, but I could still see my pedi through them. This works well to protect the tights from toenail entanglements, but won't be visible if worn with any shoe that shows off a bit of toe cleavage.

Overall, the fit was comfortable enough that I didn't notice I had them on for most of the day.

The Finish

The finish on these tights was excellent. The color distribution is flawless. The thickness is consistent. No complaints at all.

Stress Test

I wore these Sheertex tights for a full day. I wore them under a dress, with heels and with flats, lounged around the house, got some chores done, and even wore them to bed. 

Sheertex started out claiming their tights were indestructible, and, based on my experience with them, I would have to agree These are as close to indestructible as any pair of nylons I own. I tend to be pretty rough on my pantyhose, and it's a rare pair that can make it through a full day with me and remain undamaged. These tights did just that, and didn't break a sweat.

Final Thoughts

I had high hopes for my first pair of Sheertex tights, and I wasn't disappointed. They're not as polished as Wolford or Cecila de Rafael, but that's not a fair comparison. These baddies are built for resilience, and they sure deliver. I recommend every nylon enthusiast try them at least once. Once may be all you need!

Photos

Before and after unboxing 

 

My pedi peeking through the reinforced toes

 

Looking smooth with a pair of heels

 

Hosiery Review: Noosh Play Sheer Tights

After a very long hiatus, I have returned with another hosiery review!

Today, I'm reviewing the "Play Sheer" tights from Noosh, in the shade "Dulce."

First Impressions

Right out of the shipping envelope, I was immediately impressed with the packaging of these tights. Not overly elaborate, but not "drug store" minimalist, either. Just a nice, clean, unassuming little bag, with "Noosh" printed on it, along with a "House of Tights" card, with a QR code on the back of it. The QR code led me to Noosh's website, with an offer of 20% off site-wide. Depending upon how the rest of this review goes, I may take advantage of that.

When I took the tights out of the package, I was struck by a couple things. First, the pigmentation of these nylons is gorgeous. The color is rich and even, and before I ever considered putting them on my legs, I was very pleased with how smooth they looked. The second thing that caught my eye was the waistband. It seemed HUGE as I held the tights in my hands. 

Trying On

These tights were thicker than I anticipated, but I didn't mind. When your legs have been through what mine have over the years, thicker pantyhose equate to better coverage, and better concealment of all the little flaws.

The toes are reinforced, which I love. Not only do reinforced toes protect your nylons from being punctured by your toenails (I haven't had a pedi in over a month), they just look sexy as hell, especially with a couple toe rings peeking out from under them.

The tights were, well, tight, when I was pulling them on. I was worried that they would be too tight to fit correctly on my thighs. I was very pleased to find that they weren't too tight, and they slid over my thighs like they were tailor made just for me.

The waistband...oh, that glorious waistband! What I thought seemed excessive (4" waistband) is absolutely PERFECT. The waistband comes up to just above my navel, and has stayed in place as if by magic (so far).

The Fit

What can I say about the fit? It's perfect. I feel like these tights were made to fit me perfectly. There is no sagging in the crotch or the ankles, and after a few minutes, I honestly forgot I was wearing nylons at all. They fit like a second skin, comfortable and breathable. 

The Finish

With so many pantyhose, especially the cheaper brands, it seems like they come out of the package with snags, lines, mottled color or just plain ugly finish. 

These tights are the opposite. The color distribution is flawless. There isn't a snag or a line to be found. Were it not for the difference between the tights and my natural skintone (which is more fair), you'd have trouble noticing that I'm wearing them at all. 10/10.

Stress Test

I wore the Noosh tights for a solid 24 hours, with a dress and heels, under jeans with sneakers, and even slept in them.

Before taking them off, I took a good look at them, searching for flaws, snags, rips, runs, or any sign that they had been worn at all.

I have to say that they looked as good when I took them off as they did when I put them on, which is to say that they passed the stress test with flying colors. I put them through their paces, and these tights just smiled and asked for more.

Final Thoughts

I paid $32 for this pair of Noosh tights. With the exception of Wolford, I never would have dreamed to pay so much for a single pair of nylons before. Why spend $32 on a single pair of tights when you can get 2 pair of Sheer Energy pantyhose from Walmart for $10? The answer is simple: you get what you pay for.

Don't get me wrong. I've worn Sheer Energy before, and I'm very fond of them, but they can be constricting and overly thick, often bunching up behind my knees (which drives me crazy). 

The Noosh Play Sheer tights are  strong, resilient, beautiful and, if I'm being 100% honest, the most comfortable pantyhose I've worn in a very long time. They fit my body like they were made just for me. They're like a layer of polish on my legs, hiding flaws and evening out my skintone. They're soft, smooth and very comfy, and they look perfect with a pair of 3" heels (see photos).

If you have the means, I heartily endorse giving Noosh tights a try. You can buy them here (Amazon link - I earn a commission), or http://www.getnoosh.com (I don't earn a commission here). 

Thanks for reading my review! I hope you now have a better impression of these fabulous tights!

Photos

For comparison: My natural skintone vs with the Noosh tights

  

Packaging and initial impressions

 

 

Don't they look great with heels? 

 

Here's a hint for next week's review... 

Nylon Content!

Since I've started updating the blog again, I've been brainstorming content ideas. Looking at the metrics from past posts, I noticed something very interesting. The one post which has the greatest number of views (and it's not even close) was the post where I reviewed a pair of Cecilia de Rafael Eterno Super Lucido 10 tights. That post received over 1,000 unique views. The next most viewed post was somewhere in the neighborhood of 400 views.

Apparently, people who read my blog REALLY like hosiery reviews! 

I'm all for giving the audience what they want, so, in the coming days, I'm going to get back to reviewing hosiery!

And we're all in luck! Last week, I ordered 9 new pair of pantyhose -- 1 from Sheertex, 1 from Noosh, 3 from Indestructible Tights and 4 from Les Belles. I intend to review the Sheertex, Noosh and Les Belles tights individually, and the Indestructible Tights all together (they're all the same style, but in different shades).

I've already received the Sheertex, Noosh and Les Belles shipments. I'm still waiting for the Indestructible Tights to arrive (shipped from China - boo!).

I'm going to try on the Noosh tights today, take some photos and put them through their paces. I'll post the Noosh review soon. Here's a little teaser...

 

Until next time, friends...

Silly Games

I'm a totally addicted pantyhose maniac. I think my previous posts have established that.

I've also mentioned in the past that I have worn nylons and dresses at work, in my previous career as a truck driver, but that my current job isn't conducive to the wearing of the heavenly nylon.

This we have established. Let's move on to the topic du jour.

We had a mild autumn this year in Wisconsin.  Temperatures were in the 50's (Fahrenheit) until the middle of November. You might call this "shorts weather," though I haven't worn shorts to work since September.

One day, I was reflecting on how I was free to wear whatever took my fancy at my last job, pining for the days when I could experience that freedom again. Alas, those days may never return, but that doesn't mean I can't play some silly games with my wardrobe choices at work.

It occurred to me, in my lament of freedoms lost, that nobody can see what I'm wearing under my "normal guy" clothes at work, and there is no scenario in which I'm required to wear shorts. I could rock the heavenly nylon under my work pants, and nobody would be any the wiser, ever.

So I've done just that. I've worn pantyhose under my pants (known in crossdressing circles as "underdressing") at work roughly 75% of the last month, and it has been blissful, if I'm being honest.

But wait, just pantyhose? 

No, not just pantyhose.  I've also been wearing panties and "t-shirt" bras (they're supposed to be invisible under a t-shirt) in addition to my sheer nylons.

Today, I'm taking it up a notch.

I have a pair of work pants with a small hole in the thigh area. The pants are black. I've worn black or nude pantyhose under this particular pair of pants at work, which presents a very low probability of my little nylon secret being discovered.

Tonight, I'm going to wear the black pants, but with WHITE pantyhose under them. Provocative, I know. Anyone paying attention will be able to see it. Of course, nobody pays attention to little details like that, so I'm sure nothing will come of it.

*** UPDATE **

I let time get away from me! I got out of the shower, did my post-shower ritual (comb hair, swab ears, deodorant, etc), then got a look at the clock, which revealed that I should be leaving for work in roughly...5 minutes ago. Ope!

I got my panties and bra on, then slipped into my beautiful white pantyhose. Only then did I discover the problem... I have 2 pair of black work pants. They are identical in every detail, with the exception of the small hole on the leg of one pair. When folded and sitting atop a pile of clean, folded laundry, it's impossible to distinguish them from one another.

I pulled on my black work pants, looked down at the leg, and DIDN'T see my white nylons. This was the wrong pair. Again, Ope!

The fact that I was running late prevented me from swapping the pants, so I went to work with my gorgeous white pantyhose concealed under my pants, rather than peeking out through a small hole in the right thigh. As was the case with my panties and my lovely pink t-shirt bra, my glorious white tights were out of sight of everyone. My disappointment was very real and weighed on me all night at work.

Of course, wearing pantyhose under my pants at work is still several orders of magnitude better than NOT wearing pantyhose under my pants at work. The feeling of the heavenly nylon, on my legs and especially on my toes,  makes the work day so much easier.

Today is Friday. On Fridays, I wear pink -- either pink tights / pantyhose or 3 other pink items. Since I'll be at work, I can't wear 3 pink items (usually it would be bra, panties and a dress), so I'm 100% going to rock the pink tights under my pants (the pair with the rip). While it won't have the same effect as the white pantyhose, it's still pretty provocative. Maybe moreso, since pink stands out more than white does, and the pink tights I plan to wear are very, VERY pink.

 To boldly go where no one has gone before...or recently...or something.