Abstract: A heddle shaft is formed of a hollow metal profile section into which an expanding element for vibration damping is inserted. The expanding element is for example a precompressed foam strip which expands after insertion into the internal chamber of the hollow metal profile section until it is seated with a certain initial tension between the side walls of the hollow metal profile section. It is embodied as a solid (non-liquid) body and is introduced as such into the internal chamber. For being locked in place, it can be provided with adhesive faces.