A pair of tights is usually put on with a certain amount of stretching, and fingernails or
jewellery often snags on a single thread that will turn into a run or
“ladder” once the leg is applying stress to the tights.
Additionally,
a ladder may be caused during the working day, such as a snag occurring
when the tights are pushed against the underside of a desk. This can
greatly inconvenience the wearer as it appears unprofessional and they
may not have a spare pair. It can also be expensive.