Your Go-To Leggings Aren’t Warm Enough for Freezing Temps—Try These 13 Winter-Proofed Pairs Instead
While you may consider your favorite pair of denim or black leggings your go-to bottoms when wintry temperatures strike, they aren't necessarily going to hold up when it starts to snow. Cute and all, regular leggings and jeans just aren't waterproof, wind-resistant, or warm enough. The alternative? Snow leggings. Not only do they shield you from razor-sharp winds, they insulate heat and keep you dry even during blizzards.
The best winter-proof leggings, at a glance:
- Best inclusive size range: Athleta, Rainier Tight, $109
- Best for hikes: Eddie Bauer, Crossover Trail Adventure High Rise Legging, $50
- Best water-repellent tights: Athleta, Headlands Hybrid Cargo II Tight, $120
- Best budget-friendly warm leggings: Willit, Women’s Fleece Lined Leggings, $33
- Best for tall folks: Under Armour, Women’s ColdGear® Authentics Leggings, $46
- Best for petites: Old Navy, High-Waisted Fleece Lined Leggings, $23
- Best sherpa leggings: Siaeamrg, Winter Sherpa Fleece Lined Leggings, $25
- Best lightweight warm tights: Helly Hansen, Lifa Pants, $100
- Best with recycled materials: Patagonia, Capeline Air Bottoms, $139
- Best fleece-lined leggings: Crz Yoga, Thermal Fleece Lined Leggings, $30
- Best for skiing: Sweaty Betty, Colour Block Merino Base Layer Legging, $138
- Best winter running pants: The North Face, Winter Warm Pro Tights, $100
- Best winter yoga pants: Alo, Airbush Winter Warm High-Waist Nocturne Legging, $108
- 01What to look for
- 02The best leggings for snow
- 03How to choose
- 04FAQ
- Stephanie Thomas, ACE-certified personal trainer and founder of Stephanie Thomas Fitness
What to look for in leggings for snow and freezing cold temps
Before committing to a purchase, Stephanie Thomas, CPT, a certified personal trainer based in Maryland, recommends looking for moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool and polyester and leggings constructed out of thicker fabrics, such as merino wool and fleece. These fibers "keep you dry and warm at the same time while repelling water," says Thomas. When possible, look for waterproof leggings, which can help you weather any conditions, no matter if it's snow or sleet.
Not all snow-friendly leggings are crafted equally, so we did some digging to find the best pairs. We found that the best ones had the three Ws: waterproof, windproof, and warmth. Whether you're making snow angels or taking a stroll, there's a legging for everyone. Scroll down to find leggings of every fabric, length, and budget.
The best leggings for snow
Sizes available: XXS-3XL
Take your winter sports to new heights with Athleta’s Rainier tights. Constructed out of lycra and polyester, these leggings are stretchy with a warm, brushed interior, making them perfect for medium or high-impact workouts outdoors. What’s more, there’s a back zip pocket for storing your phone, keys, or credit cards.
Colors: 9 options
Material: lycra, polyester, recycled nylon
Pros:
- Extensive size range
- Features pocket
- Stretchy and warm
Cons:
- Pricier pick
Sizes available: XS-XXL
Eddie Bauer’s Crossover Trail leggings come recommended by Thomas. “The thermal brushed fleece will help you stay warm. Plus, it’s stretchy for added comfort during any outdoor activity,” explains Thomas. Even more, it’s odor-resistant to keep funky aromas away (stench, be gone).
Colors: 2 options
Material: polyester
Pros:
- Odor-resistant
- High-waisted
- Features pockets
Cons:
- Not water-resistant
Sizes available: 0-26 (in petite, regular, tall)
If sleet and sludge are a concern for you, these water-repellent leggings will help keep you warm and dry. The Headlands Hybrid Cargo tights are exactly what they sound like: a hybrid of cargo pants and tights. With plenty of pockets (six total!), a high waist, and an internal drawstring cord, these leggings mean business. Plus, they’re made with durable, recycled nylon and spandex that resists water, as well as snags and tears.
Colors: 6 options
Material: recycled nylon and spandex
Pros:
- Water-repellent material
- Six pockets
- Wide range of sizes and lengths
Cons:
- Pricier pick
Sizes available: XS-XXL
There’s a reason why these tights are one of the most popular leggings on Amazon: They’re buttery-soft, repel water, and cost a fraction of the price. Featuring two side pockets and a zip back pocket, these leggings fit a phone, keys, and small wallet. Now, you’re ready to brave the snow.
Colors: 8 options
Material: polyester and spandex
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Features pockets
- Water-repellent
Cons:
- Runs long
Sizes available: XS-XXL
Leggings that help you brace for the cold and snow? Look no further than Under Armour’s ColdGear Leggings. Moisture-wicking, warm, and smooth, you’ll want to throw these on (or snuggle in them) when winter rolls on by. Plus, these leggings are available in short, regular, and tall lengths.
Colors: 5 options
Material: polyester and elastane
Pros:
- Various lengths available
- Moisture-wicking and dries fast
Cons:
- May cause cameltoe
Sizes available: XS-4XL
Did someone say fleece-lined leggings? Old Navy, a tried-and-true brand, popped off with its legging collection and this pair is comfy as it is warm. Constructed out of cotton, polyester, and spandex, this pair will keep you toasty no matter how low the temps drop. Choose from cute fall and neutral colors like black, grey, burgundy, and cream. Plus, they come in petite, tall, and regular lengths.
Colors: 5 options
Material: cotton, polyester, spandex
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Great size variety with options for petites
Cons:
- May cause cameltoe
Sizes available: S-XXL
If warmth is the goal, these sherpa leggings from Amazon will do the job. They’re stretchy, thick, and snuggly, with a high waist to boot. Because they’re so warm, they’re a better fit for snowy walks than intense workouts. We should also note that the thicker sherpa interior does impact the sizing of these leggings—most people recommend sizing up.
Colors: 2 options
Material: Sherpa fleece, cotton
Pros:
- Thick and warm sherpa material
- High waisted
Cons:
- Runs small
- May be too thick for workouts
Sizes available: XS-XL
Using a blend of merino wool and polypropylene, Helly Hansen’s Lifa leggings are the pair of leggings you’ll want to suit up in when things get cold. Not only are they sweat-wicking, they keep things nice and dry during any outdoor winter activities. “The two-layer construction of these leggings really makes them stand apart from the rest,” Thomas says.
Colors: 6 options
Material: merino wool and polypropylene
Pros:
- Double layered
- Moisture-wicking
- Non-itchy merino wool
Cons:
- Wool detergent only
Sizes available: XXS-XL
For an irresistibly soft legging, you can’t go wrong with Patagonia’s Capilene Air Bottoms. Made of a merino wool and recycled polyester blend, the Capilene pair is sweat-wicking, warm, and odor-resistant, making it an ideal pair for playing in the snow. “With these leggings you can also feel great about doing good for the planet while wearing them in the snow,” says Thomas.
Colors: 2 options
Material: merino wool and recycled polyester
Pros:
- Odor-resistant
- Moisture-wicking
- Warm
Cons:
- Expensive
Sizes available: XXS-XL
For outdoorsy folks, CRZ Yoga’s fleece lined leggings are a must-have. “I love these leggings for more casual outdoor winter activities. They’re perfect for walking and hiking in the snow,” shares Thomas. These polyamide and spandex leggings are stretchy, soft, and extremely warm thanks to the fleece lining, keeping you toasty and dry all winter long (snowfall, no problem).
Colors: 15 options
Material: polyamide and spandex
Pros:
- Affordable price
- High-waisted
- Hidden pocket
Cons:
- May cause cameltoe
Sizes available: XS-XL
For days when you’re ready to hit the slopes, Sweaty Betty’s base layer leggings have got you covered. Constructed out of merino wool, this pair wicks away moisture while keeping you toasty. They’re also “lightweight, and [the] soft fabric make them super comfortable,” says Thomas.
Colors: 2 options
Material: merino wool and nylon
Pros:
- Moisture-wicking
- High-waisted
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Only two color options
- Pricier pick
Sizes available: XS-XL
Not only are these leggings ultra cozy, the North Face’s Winter Pro tights are wind- and water-repellent, too. This functional pair also features multiple pockets to store your essentials and comes with reflective elements, so you remain visible to cars and bikers. Also a nice touch: “They have an internal drawcord to help them stay put,” Thomas says. Winter running, commence!
Colors: 2 options
Material: polyester and elastane
Pros:
- Wind- and water- repellent
- Moisture-wicking
- Features pockets
Cons:
- May cause bagginess for some
Sizes available: XXS-L
It’s no surprise why Alo’s leggings have claimed the hearts of celebs and customers: They’re comfy to wear, and this pair is no exception. The fleece-like interior keeps your legs toasty, while the airbrush fabric—aka a polyester and spandex mix—holds you in in all of the right places.
Colors: 3 options
Material: polyester and spandex
Pros:
- High-waisted
- Warm-brushed interior
Cons:
- Size range limited (not the most size-inclusive brand, overall)
Things to consider before buying
Your preferred cold-weather activity
Do you need buttery soft leggings for yoga? Or are moisture-wicking winter running pants more your pace? Some of the leggings on our list are too thick to be comfortable for running (as is the case with sherpa-lined leggings) but just right for snowy walks with the dog. While all of the picks on our list are warmer than your average tights, you'll want to keep your intended activity in mind to help narrow down your options.
Sizing and lengths
While we wish all leggings came in a broad size range (we see you, Athleta and Old Navy!), that's not always the case. If you need petite, tall, or larger sizing, you'll want to stick to the brands on this list that offer more inclusive options.
Added features
Whether you need high-waisted leggings for a no-slip fit or a pair with pockets galore, you'll want to keep these features in mind as they can make or break your cold-weather workouts.
Frequently asked questions
Do people wear leggings under snow pants?
Absolutely! The right pair of cold-weather leggings can help add warmth under snow pants. If you're planning on being active (think: skiing, sledding, hiking) prioritize leggings that use breathable, moisture-wicking merino wool or polyester. That way you can keep warm without getting too sweaty (ahem, and stinky) inside your snow pants.
What is warmer, tights or leggings?
The terms "tights" and "leggings" are often used interchangeably, so the answer really depends on the materials used. Our list of leggings for snow includes brands that offer super warm pairs of pants that they call by either name. Try not to get too caught up in semantics—instead focus on looking for materials that wick moisture, block wind, and contain heat.
Are fleece-lined leggings warm enough in the snow?
Fleece-lined leggings may be warm enough for the snow, depending on the activity. If you're walking the dog in the snow, fleece-lined leggings will likely keep you toasty and comfortable. If you're skiing, you'll likely want to layer with water-repellent ski pants—that way, if you take a tumble you won't get soaked and chilly.
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