Established in Bregenz in 1950, Wolford is now a prestigious international hosiery brand that is continually innovating.
Wolford were one of the first European hosiery manufacturers to develop a model of tights made specifically for men. Interestingly, these were named 'Waist Socks'.
I have been buying and wearing Wolford tights for many years. They are some of the best opaque tights in my collection.
I purchased a pair of the Wolford Velvet De Luxe 66 Tights at the Wolford shop in the Westfield Stratford City shopping centre in London. The salesperson specifically recommended this style to me for the fit and the soft fabric.
Material and features
The Wolford Velvet De Luxe 66 Tights are made from 94% Nylon and 6% Elastane. The fabric is amazingly soft and velvety. They are 66 denier, although they don't at all feel like they would be heavy tights to wear.
Opaque coverage is consistent and even from hip to toe.
The tights are sheer to waist with no demarcation between the leg and the brief. Toes are very lightly reinforced. Seams are flat and very well engineered.
The XL size does not have a rear comfort panel, but a gusset instead.
The waistband is 3cm wide. As with all Wolford tights, there is a label attached to the inside of the waistband.
The brief is extremely deep, comfortable and has plenty of stretch.
Fit and sizing
The Wolford Velvet De Luxe 66 Tights are available in five sizes: XS, S, M, L and XL.
I tested a pairs in the XL size.
The fit of these tights was superb. In particular they have excellent stretch. The XL size I am reviewing would be very good for taller people.
The fabric mould well to the legs and fits snugly in all the right areas: ankles, knees and thigh areas.
The brief/panty is really deep and perfect for men who usually need more space in that area.
The waistband was also very comfortable and provided good support.
Colour range
The Wolford Velvet De Luxe 66 Tights are available in a wide range of colours:
- Carnelian
- Holly Berry
- Coca
- Mocca
- Bison
- Caper
- Mouse
- Admiral
- Ultramarine
- Cobalt
- Blue Allure
- Black
- Anthracite
- Caviar
I tested a pair in the Mocca shade - a very dark brown. The shade is shown in the image below.
Price and availability
The Wolford Velvet De Luxe 66 Tights are priced at £23.00 in the UK.
They are available from the Wolford UK shop, as well as a wide range of retailers such as:
Luxury Legs
My Tights
Tights Please
Tights Tights Tights
Conclusion
The Wolford Velvet De Luxe 66 Tights are amongst the best opaque tights I have ever worn. The fabric is velvety soft and so comfortable against the skin.
Yes, they are more expensive than most tights, but when buying Wolford you know that you are you going to get a high quality product that will last and last.
I have several pairs of the Opaque 70 tights (a seasonal product that appears from time to time) and they have lasted despite heavy usage over several autumns and winters.
I can see why Wolford have probably decided not to launch further styles of tights for men. I think this is because they know we are buying from their core range and that the excellent sizing options will meet the needs of most men.
The Wolford Velvet De Luxe 66 Tights are particularly suitable for men as the material stretches so well, and leg length is generous.
These tights provide a great wearing experience. Try them in place of socks this autumn!
