Sunday 17 September 2017

Guest review: Wolford Satin Opaque Nature Tights

We have just received a guest review from George, a Hosiery For Men reader.

He has
submitted this detailed and insightful review of the Wolford Satin Opaque Nature Tights.





Released in the autumn of 2016 the Satin Opaque Nature Tights are not as widely known as other opaque tights from the Wolford range.

As the name suggests, the Satin Opaque Nature Tights are a product containing a natural fibre and with this comes a host of unique benefits not typically seen in tights of a similar ilk.

‘Natural’ product tights are more often than not either of a silk, wool, or cotton construct and with that comes their typical disadvantages – too warm, skin irritation, or in the case of silk it can be cost, and typically a product that looses shape/fit rapidly.

So one of the most technologically advanced manufacturers of hosiery today, Wolford, have taken a natural fibre developed in Japan (Cupro), combined it with polyamide and elastane to create a durable comfortable and semi-opaque product.

Packaging

The tights are everything that you come to expect from the Wolford stable – very well packaged, folded around a cardboard sleeve which is then protected by an outer cardboard envelope to then be inserted in a clear bag.

Features


On removing from the packaging you are immediately aware of the very soft feel of the material – no scratchy wool texture – and something that is not commonly found in tights today of the non-support variety, a reinforced heel. In addition to the reinforced heel, which is a feature to be welcomed for men in particular as it helps with wear, but it also has a reinforced sole bridging the gap between toe section and heel. I have a shoe size of 11 and the foot section fits me perfectly in the XL size.



The introduction of the reinforced sole is an absolute masterstroke from Wolford. Nothing is more uncomfortable than moisture or sweat when wearing tights, but in utilising this innovative Cupro material the issue of moisture is resolved as it naturally wicks it away from the skin. The natural wicking properties of this material also has a significant benefit when wearing the tights underneath jeans or trousers; it helps prevent over heating at the same time as providing the warmth of a semi-opaque.

Apart from the impressive design of the foot, the tights also feature a super-deep comfort waistband of 5.5cm that prevents the tights from digging in, rolling, and as such I find that they require no adjustment during wear and in so doing provide an altogether very comfortable wearing experience. Seams are flat, and as is customary in Wolford XL size tights, a cotton gusset is featured rather than a back-panel in a sheer to waist product.




Appearance

Being semi-opaque (50 denier) these tights provide an even degree of coverage with some show through, especially in areas of stretch such as the knee and thigh, although generally matt in appearance they can have the very slightest soft satin sheen in direct light. Colour is consistent throughout as you would expect from Wolford, and because of the unique construction process the Cupro yarn is combined in a spiral knit with elastane to provide a comfortable fit with no bagginess or sagging.



A range of dark colours, suitable for wearing with trousers, are available in sizes from XS through XL making them especially suitable for men (they really should appear in the Wolford Unisex selection), I particularly like the Admiral and Anthracite shades.



Wearing

Being 5’11” and of large build I find that the XL size is true to the description on the Wolford size chart with very good leg length, not constrictive around the hips or tummy and enough stretch to fit comfortably at or above my waistline.

The material does not snag easily and I have no pulls in them making them very easy to put on.

Summary

Yet another technological and innovative product from the house of Wolford. I purchased my ones directly from Wolford online. priced at €39.00. These are priced very well for the quality presented and durability of the product (I have two pairs from autumn 2016 and they remain in perfect condition after multiple wears and washes).

The premium features, the natural wicking of the material makes them a pleasure to wear throughout the day. I highly recommend these tights for men.

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