I am notorious for ripping tights and hose. They usually last me 2 wears tops before Ive trashed them beyond redemption. These tights are somehow both sturdier and softer than any cut-out style tights Ive ever worn before! After many wears I haven't managed to rip them yet, and they don't have that scratchy, leaves-imprints-in-your-skin feeling that other tights do.