Last updated: October 2026 Quick answer: A snag looks like a dark line where threads have been pulled. Gently pull the sides of the snag, then gently rub the area until it disappears. Do it before you wear the tights again so it doesn’t turn into a run. I hate runs and snags in my tights as much as you do, and I do my best to avoid them. There’s nothing worse than wearing a killer tights-and-skirt combination, only to look down later and discover a rip. Am I right?! The bottom line is that tights are delicate, and the best way to fix a run is to stop it from ever happening. What is a snag in tights? Tights are made of a thin knit fabric, created on a circular knitting machine that uses a number of fine threads. Runs happen when those threads get pulled, and that can be triggered by just about anything. Before a run appears (one of those rips there’s no way you can get away with), a snag shows up first. A snag looks like a dark line running through your tights, and it appears when the threads get pulled. But don’t panic: there’s a way to fix it. Fix small snags before you wear your tights a second time and you’re less likely to end up with a rip, which would leave them basically unsalvageable. How to fix a snag in your tights in 3 easy steps Follow these steps with absolute caution and care. Step 1: Spot the snag Look for dark lines in your tights. They can be small or big, but in both cases you’ll want to fix them. There can sometimes be a tiny hole in the center of the snag. Step 2: Gently pull the sides of the snag Gently pull on the sides of the snag (to the right and to the left) with extreme care. As you pull, you should see the dark line start to disappear or get smaller. Step 3: Gently rub the area Gently rub where the snag was and watch it disappear. Now your tights are snag free! What if you already have a run in your tights? Sometimes accidents happen, and runs and rips are just unavoidable. When all else fails, put a clear coat of nail polish around the rip to stop it from getting worse. Hairspray can also act as an adhesive and help keep a run from spreading. If a pair is beyond saving, give it a second life with these easy DIY Halloween decorations made with old tights. The best prevention: start with the right size It's all about the size. Not sure which pair or size to pick? Start with our guide to choosing the right tights size or Your Complete Guide to Tights & Hosiery. Snagged tights FAQ What does a snag in tights look like? A snag looks like a dark line running through your tights. It appears when the threads get pulled, and it can be small or big. Can you fix a snag in tights? Yes. Gently pull the sides of the snag to the right and left, then gently rub the area until the line disappears. When should I fix a snag? Right away, and before you wear the tights a second time. Fixing it early makes a rip less likely. How do I stop a run from getting worse? Put a clear coat of nail polish around the rip. Hairspray can also help keep it from spreading. Xo,Rachel Ready for a fresh pair? Shop our tights
