Product characteristics
Compression measurement
An expression used for the pressure of tights on the leg. The measurement is given in kPa = Kilopascal. Articles which exert light pressure have a preventive effect. Articles exerting higher compression can relieve acute problems in the legs. Tights are available in different categories: Cat I (0.679 – 0.815 kPa), Cat II (0.951 – 1.222 kPa), Cat III (1.358 – 1.63 kPa). Please note that the pressure is less where the girth is lower, and higher where the girth measurement is high.
den/dtex
Units of measurement for yarn thickness. These are calculated on the basis of the weight of the yarn for a given length:
- Denier (Abbreviation = den) shows how many grammes of yarn there were per 9,000 metres in weight.
- Decitex (Abbreviation = dtex) states how many grammes of yarn there were per 10,000 metres in weight.
Example:
10 den = 11 dtex = 10 grs per 9,000 metres yarn = 11 grs per 10,000 metres yarn
30 den = 33 dtex = 30 grs per 9,000 metres yarn = 33 grs per 10,000 metres yarn
Durability
This reflects the elasticity and long-wearing life of the fibres and yarns.
Elasticity
An important characteristic relating to the fitting of pantyhose, stockings and underwear, which can feel like a second skin. The addition of elastic fibres such as Lycra is a decisive quality feature today.
Feel
The expression used to describe the texture of the product: hard, soft, rough, or smooth etc.
Figure shaping effect
Products with specially incorporated elastic materials to give a pleasant shaping effect. Example: “Figura” tights for a flat tummy or Formslip from the underwear collection.
Fineness
This is determined by the strength of the yarn in den/dtex and the type of machine used to produce the garment. The finest materials are produced using thin yarns and many needles.
Heat tolerance
Products react to heat in different ways when drying or being ironed. Information on this can be obtained from the international symbols on the packaging. Also see our tips on the care of the product.
Massage effect
Articles with a slightly vitalising and refreshing effect that massage the legs when walking e.g. Active 20 den.
Moisture absorption
The more moisture a product can absorb without giving the impression of being wet, the more pleasant it will feel next to the skin. The cotton and micro-fibres used in underwear and knitted stockings, for example, are especially absorbent.
Shine
The shine depends on the material or the method of production. Products made of Satin Sheers are highly glossy. A silky look can be achieved using polyamides (nylon) and, of course, with silk. Cotton is made glossier by mercerising.
Transparency
Basically, it can be said that the less the den/dtex the yarn has the more transparent the finished product will be. Example from the Bellinda collection; hosiery:
- High transparency e.g. Fascination 15 den/17 dtex
- Transparent e.g. Satin Sheers 20 den/22 dtex
- Opaque e.g. Nature 60 den/66 dtex
Washability
Products have a sensitive reaction to temperature changes, different types of detergents and mechanical influences such as rubbing and wringing. Information on this can be obtained from the standard international symbols to be found on the packaging. Also read our tips on product care.
