The transition to winter calls for a trusty pair of leggings that can take you through the season with ease. The best winter leggings are versatile enough to accompany you on city walks, mountain getaways, long flights, and cozy mornings by the fireplace. While warmth is crucial, breathability, durability, and a refined appearance are also key factors to consider for leggings that can go beyond lounging at home.
Our editors have rigorously tested a wide range of cold-weather leggings to bring you the top contenders. Some leggings are tailored for performance, providing insulation and flexibility for outdoor activities like hiking, running, or sightseeing in cold environments. Others prioritize softness, structure, and adaptability, making them perfect for layering, traveling light, or staying comfortable while on the move. Each pair was scrutinized for fit, comfort, and long-term durability.
Below, you’ll find the winter leggings that seamlessly blend function, style, and comfort, allowing you to embrace cold-weather adventures in a fashion-forward way. I also hate when leggings are so tight that they dig in at the waist, so I always prioritize pairs with stretch all the way through too.
What was your overall impression of these leggings?
I want to say these feel like a second skin—but I wish my skin was this soft! They move with your body while still being supportive, and somehow feel plush despite being relatively thin.
What are these best suited for?
These are ideal for people who want an extra layer under snow pants or just want a comfortable thing to wear under a baggy sweater or jacket on a crisp day. They’re not fleece-lined or insulating, but they feel like a warm cuddle on a cold day.
These leggings feel like a second skin—but better! They are soft, breathable, and move with your body while providing support. Despite being relatively thin, they feel plush and cozy, making them ideal for wearing under snow pants or with a baggy sweater on a cold day.
Pros include the soft, breathable material and the fact that they are not too thick. However, they may not be the warmest option on the market.
I hoped for a pair that would still be as comfortable as my second-skin ones, and Baleaf’s fleece-lined winter leggings delivered. Great for the price, they look sleek and have a comfortable high waist, plus a thin-yet-cozy fleece interior. I’ve been burned wearing them on a balmy fall day that turned out to be 70 degrees by mid-afternoon (the sweat was real, but luckily so was the sweat-wicking fabric). However, the waistband pocket is too small for anything except AirPods, some pocket cash, and a credit card, so don’t depend on it for your phone. These leggings are best suited for a fall bike ride, a long hike, a cold plane ride, or as a layer under jeans in winter and for cool-weather outdoor adventures. The design is durable and long-lasting, with my first pair lasting over 10 years. These leggings are best suited for quick outings in cold weather, such as running out the door for coffee or lounging indoors when the heat isn’t on yet. They are also great for skiing and outdoor sports, providing warmth and comfort. The leggings are versatile and can be worn all day for various activities. The leggings from Skims are best suited for loungewear due to their ribbed fabric and high-waisted design, which make them a little uncomfortable for running. On the other hand, the Alo leggings are ideal for low-impact workout classes and lounging, as they are super cozy with a fleece interior. Lastly, the leggings tested by Jamie Spain are best for outdoor running if you tend to run warm, but are also suitable for working out or lounging indoors in slightly colder temperatures. I wanted a legging I could wear outside when walking or running and something that I could also comfortably travel in. These leggings were comfortable but not very thick or heavily lined. I wore them to a workout class just to see if I would get overheated and honestly, they felt just like regular leggings. When putting them on they feel a bit thicker than regular leggings and the inside is soft and slightly fleecy, but not very thick. While I probably wouldn’t wear them in the dead of summer when it’s very hot, they otherwise can be worn for any occasion or outside temperature. These are best suited for outdoor running if you run warm, but otherwise are better for working out or lounging indoors where it might be a bit colder but not freezing. I appreciate how comfortable they are and that they don’t slide down. They kept me warm and dry during my outdoor walks and intense gym sessions, making them my go-to for cold weather workouts. The high waistband provided a secure fit without feeling constricting, and the limited colorways added a touch of style to my activewear collection. These leggings are a must-have for staying cozy and comfortable in chilly temperatures.<br>\n<strong>What are these best suited for?</strong><br>\nThese leggings are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, running, or cycling in cold weather. The sweat-resistant fabric and comfortable fit make them ideal for high-intensity workouts or casual walks in the winter. 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Athleta
Polartec Power Stretch Tight
Tested by: M.K.
What were you looking for in a winter legging?
I’ve been searching for a legging I could wear on long outdoor walks and to the gym on extra frigid days.
What was your overall impression of these leggings?
I love how sweat-wicking the soft, brushed material of these thermal leggings are. They kept me warm and dry during my outdoor walks and intense gym sessions, making them my go-to for cold weather workouts. The high waistband provided a secure fit without feeling constricting, and the limited colorways added a touch of style to my activewear collection. These leggings are a must-have for staying cozy and comfortable in chilly temperatures.
What are these best suited for?
These leggings are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, running, or cycling in cold weather. The sweat-resistant fabric and comfortable fit make them ideal for high-intensity workouts or casual walks in the winter. They’re versatile enough to wear to the gym, on a hike, or simply lounging at home on a cold day.