Finding the right warm leggings can be a pain. The best leggings for cold weather can keep your legs insulated and cozy. But they should also be comfortable and easy to put on. Your choice of leggings will vary depending on factors like your size, your personal style, your preferred fabric, and how active you are.
Our top pick overall is the Minus33 Merino Wool design. These affordable leggings are lightweight enough for the warmer seasons, but they provide excellent insulation in the cold. They make a comfortable, durable option for casual outdoor wear year-round.
The Best Warm Leggings for Winter
Minus33 Merino Wool 803 Bottoms
Making it to the top of our list of the best thermal leggings is Minus33’s 100% merino wool midweight leggings, which come at a lower cost than some other leading merino wool leggings such as Smart Wools. These thermal leggings are warm but light enough that they can still be worn during mild seasons including Spring and Fall.
They can be worn during everyday activities including casual wear, hiking, camping, snow sports, and pretty much any activity outdoors when it’s a bit chilly. These thermal leggings are thin enough that they can be worn as a base layer as well as a mid layer. Perhaps the best part about these thermal leggings is that they are machine washable!
What We Like
- Made from 100 percent merino wool
- Medium weight allows for year-round wear without overheating
- High waisted for a better fit
- Ankle cuffs prevent bagginess
- Included 30 day money back satisfaction guarantee
What We Don’t Like
- Not heavy enough for super cold climates
Duofold Mid Weight
Unlike Minus33, these thermal leggings by Duofold are made entirely of 60% cotton and 40% polyester. I know we’ve been raving on about merino wool, but if you are more budget-conscious, these are still a great pair of thermal leggings at a fraction of the cost!
These thermal leggings are strong in moisture-wicking properties and can withstand outdoor performance activities. The cottony texture of Duofold’s thermal leggings makes them comfy enough to wear around the house as well as strong enough to be outdoors skiing, hiking, camping, and any other activities you fancy when the weather drops below comfort.
What We Like
- Blend of cotton and polyester fabric
- Super affordable in comparison to merino wool
- Moisture-wicking design removes sweat
- Durable enough for outdoor wear
- Casual enough to wear comfortably around the house
What We Don’t Like
- Lacks some advanced styling options
Angelina Fleece Lined Leggings
These thermal leggings by Angelina make an even cheaper buy than Duofold but perform more as everyday leggings than thermal leggings you’d prefer to have for a day of skiing or hiking during Winter. That said, these are an extremely comfortable pair of thermal leggings that are not only affordable, but also easy on the budget.
The materials of these thermal leggings are 70% polyester, 20% nylon, and 10% spandex. They can be machine washed, but it is recommended to hand-wash to keep a proper fit. This is completely up to you, as I’d rather just purchase a couple pairs rather than hand wash one pair each time I wear them!
What We Like
- Best fleece lined leggings for winter wear on a budget
- Opaque, high-waisted fit lets you use them standalone
- Stretchy blend of polyester, nylon, and spandex
- Good as everyday leggings
What We Don’t Like
- Not thick enough for extremely cold climates
- Hand wash is recommended rather than machine washing
Related: Best Women’s Pants for Hot Weather
Terramar Thermasilk Pointelle
Terramar is an industry leader in its silk garments, making it part of our list of the best thermal leggings for this year. Made of 100% silk, these leggings are ultra-lightweight with natural breathability as well as provide super comfort and luxurious feel.
These thermal leggings are lightweight enough to be worn under another layer including jeans. But keep in mind, if the photo is not obvious enough, that these leggings are NOT opaque. If you are looking for some luxurious and smooth leggings to wear as a base layer, the Terramar silk leggings simply are second to none!
What We Like
- Best silk leggings on the market
- Super lightweight and naturally breathable
- Texture is great for people who don’t like soft cotton or fleece
- Natural heating and cooling properties for temperature regulation
- Can be worn under jeans or shorts
What We Don’t Like
- Design isn’t opaque, so it can’t be worn standalone
ColdPruf Dual Layer Bottoms
Coldpruf takes these thermal leggings pretty seriously with their own patented CPT fiber intended to reduce odor and odor-causing bacteria during your wear. These leggings are an awesome blend of 70% polyester and 30% merino wool. Because of this blend, these thermal leggings are pretty middle-of-the-road when it comes to pricing.
These are super sleek fitting and can even be worn under jeans if you’d like. As far as fit suggestions, we recommend getting the size smaller if you are between two sizes. They tend to run a bit larger than expected, so if you can’t choose between the L and XL, we recommend opting for the L this time!
What We Like
- Warm black leggings with a classic look
- Patented fibers reduce odors with long wear
- Polyester and merino wool blend
- Designed specifically for extreme cold and outdoor activities
- Sleek, stylish fit that comfortably hugs the leg
What We Don’t Like
- The sizes can run a little large
Cuddl Duds ClimateRight
Cuddl Duds makes our favorite thermal leggings because they are just so dang cute! The fit is stretchy and comfy, made up of 94% polyester and 6% spandex and coming in a range of options including various colors and patterns.
These leggings are meant for cold days and provide durability and fluid movement for whatever activities you get in, while also being thin enough to be worn as a base layer underneath your jeans or other pants.
What We Like
- Adorable and super stylish option
- Polyester-spandex combo gives you a stretchy fit
- Multiple patterns and colors available
- Built to keep you warm on cold days
- Thin enough for wear under jeans and shorts
What We Don’t Like
- Not quite as soft as some cotton blends
Related: Stay Present With These 15 Best Travelers Notebooks
Icebreaker Merino Wool Leggings
Icebreaker makes some pretty sweet thermal leggings made of 100% merino wool. The price certainly reflects the quality of the material, as these are some of the most expensive thermal leggings that made our list. That said, these leggings are ridiculously breathable and you will never feel stuffy and hot while wearing these beautiful leggings.
The waist is mid-rise, so it won’t be causing any unwanted bulges or discomfort. They can be worn as a base layer, but with all these fun patterns, you may even want to show them off by wearing them underneath a skirt or as standalone leggings. These leggings are very practical and will keep you warm in whatever cold weather conditions you find yourself in.
What We Like
- 100 percent merino wool
- Among the most breathable leggings on the market
- Stylish mid-rise waist is extra comfy
- Tons of funky patterns to choose from
- Durable and practical for extremely cold areas
What We Don’t Like
- Pricier than most other options on the list
Yogipace Fleece Lined Water Resistant Tights
These water resistant leggings are a great choice for anyone looking for adventure. Waterproof fleece leggings can keep the rain and puddles out while retaining your body heat. You can choose from four different legging lengths based on your height, so these leggings fit petite to tall women.
The fleece lining can help keep your body warm in cool temperatures of 30 to 50 degrees. It’s recommended that you use these as a base layer on windy days and have windproof fabric on top. Since the design is water resistant, it will handle some rain and snow. Just keep in mind that there’s not total waterproofing.
What We Like
- Fleece lined leggings are great for mild winters
- Four different sizes to suit women of different heights
- Water resistant fabric keeps you dry in light rain
- Hidden pocket in the waistband for your valuables
- Zippered pocket on the back lets you easily access your phone
What We Don’t Like
- Will be chilly in super windy conditions unless you have windproof fabric over it
Conceited Premium Leggings
If you’re looking for plus size warm leggings, look no further. Finding cute and comfortable plus size fashion can be a chore, but these come in regular and plus options. You have a choice of more than 20 different colors, so you can really let your style shine. The stretchy fabric blend is another key selling point for plus size shoppers.
The leggings are lined with fleece, keeping your body heat inside throughout the day. Their high-waisted design slims your silhouette and gives you control over your fit. You can choose from regular or extra large stretchy sizes. The company offers a satisfaction guarantee and says that they’ll pay the return shipping if you want to send the product back.
What We Like
- Super cute leggings available in standard and plus size
- Stretchy 92% nylon, 8% spandex fabric
- Slimming high waisted silhouette
- More than 20 different colors available to choose from
- Free returns including free return shipping if you’re unsatisfied
What We Don’t Like
- Might not be warm enough to withstand high winds
BALEAF Fleece Lined Leggings
Style lovers, rejoice: These cute yoga pants come with pockets. They’re an excellent choice if you want leggings that have all the functionality of comfortable athletic wear. You can also choose colors ranging from neutral tones to dazzling blues and purples. There’s something to fit every woman’s sense of style!
The leggings are crafted from a blend of polyester and spandex with a fleece lining. Unlike traditional leggings, they use a button closure. The breathable fabric is specifically designed to let you do tough workouts outdoors in the winter without getting cold or overheating. A wide waistband gives you a comfortable fit without any pinching or “muffin” top.
Inside the waistband is a hidden pocket that’s big enough to hold your smartphone or valuables. You don’t need to worry about lugging a purse around the gym. The gusseted crotch lets you move more freely during yoga and pilates, and the flatlock seams prevent chafing.
What We Like
- Stylish and practical leggings with a button closure
- Stretchy blend of 87% polyester and 13% spandex
- Breathable fabric prevents overheating during workouts while keeping you warm
- Better freedom of movement thanks to flat seams and gusseted crotch
- Large pocket hidden in the waistband for your phone and valuables
What We Don’t Like
- Button closure may not appeal to fans of traditional leggings
Under Armour ColdGear Compression Leggings
Under Armour is known for making high performance gear, and they’ve truly outdone themselves with these leggings. In addition to being great for athletes, warm compression leggings can make a huge difference for people with medical conditions like varicose veins. The pressure improves your circulation for a better body workout.
The stretchy fabric blend has a specialized interior and exterior. Inside, the soft fabric cradles your skin and keeps you warm. Outside, the leggings are sleek and dry quickly. Sweat is wicked away throughout your workout and dries instead of soaking you. Thanks to the welded seams, there’s no need to worry about chafing.
What We Like
- Polyester-elastane blend gives you a soft, customized fit
- Dual layered fabric is soft and warm while also sleek and quick-drying
- Moisture is wicked away so you stay dry throughout tough workouts
- Compression leggings can improve circulation in people with medical conditions
- Seams are welded to totally eliminate chafing
What We Don’t Like
- Not available in a wide range of colors or styles
POSHDIVAH Women’s Maternity Leggings
If you need warm maternity leggings that will stretch throughout the season, this design has you covered. It comes with a panel that stretches to accommodate your growing belly. The body is made of a durable polyester-spandex blend, while the panel uses stretchy nylon-spandex fabric. The materials are super breathable and gentle, ideal for everyday use.
The panel can stretch over your entire belly right up until you give birth. There’s a seamless band to prevent chafing as your body changes. Inside, the soft fleece cradles your legs and keeps you warm. The design doesn’t use bulky materials, so it’s lightweight and easy to put on during pregnancy. You also get two side pockets that can hold your keys and phone.
What We Like
- Best maternity leggings on the market
- Stretchy nylon panel covers your belly for your entire pregnancy
- Designed for maximum comfort with lightweight materials
- Breathable, athletic fabric wicks away sweat
- Super durable construction with non-chafing seams
What We Don’t Like
- Won’t be useful for women who don’t need maternity clothes
Healthyoga Fleece Pocket Leggings
Outdoorsy girls need durable insulation. Athletic designs like this can function as both warm leggings for hiking and warm running leggings. You can choose from a range of neutral and muted tones like silver, blue, black, and gray. Each pair is designed with deep side pockets that can hold your keys, wallet, and phone — no need to drag your purse around!
The four-way stretch fabric conforms to your body during your workouts. It wicks away moisture as you sweat, while the fleece keeps your body heat inside. The gusseted crotch and interlock seams both reduce the potential for chafing and discomfort, so you can keep your full range of motion.
As if that wasn’t enough, these leggings also work as shapewear. The high-waisted design slims your silhouette and emphasizes your curves.
What We Like
- Flattering high-waisted design emphasizes your curves
- 4-way stretch fabric makes it super easy to move
- Gusseted crotch and interlock seams prevent chafing and discomfort
- Two side pockets that are deep enough for your wallet and phone
- Breathable athletic design is perfect for outdoor adventuring
What We Don’t Like
- Not available in many bright or funky colors
Buying Guide for Warm Leggings
Buying leggings online without any reviews or references can be a gamble. Some leggings arrive at your door and they are partially see through. Similarly, if you aren’t careful when looking at the materials, you may buy cotton leggings that have very little protection from any cold temperatures.
Here’s are some of the materials to look for when purchasing your thermal leggings:
Merino Wool
Though expensive, merino wool is the most solid thermal material on the market. This material provides better cold protection than its synthetic counterparts.
Although technically wool, these fibers are so fine that they do not make you itchy. Naturally antibacterial, these leggings can be worn multiple times before any odor would become present.
Silk
Blending natural silk with other fabrics provides for more durability, yet soft to the touch leggings that aren’t bulky. Leggings like the Terramar Thermasilk are even made fully from natural silk.
Fleece
Fleece lined leggings for winter tend to be heavy, but they’re also soft and comfortable. The material is durable and capable of holding your body heat in. In addition, it dries off quickly after becoming wet.
Fleece material is structured with air pockets. These function like home insulation, keeping your body heat from escaping through the fabric. A blend of synthetics and wool gives you the soft, luxurious texture you find in designs like the BALEAF Leggings.
Waterproof
Depending on your location and activities, you might want to invest in a pair of waterproof leggings. Not only are these great for hikers and outdoorsy adventurers, but they’ll also keep you dry if you have to wade through snow or slush.
Waterproof leggings like the Yogipace Tights are typically coated with water-resistant material. They may also conform to the ankle so that water can’t soak through the bottoms of the design.
Warm Leggings for Women FAQ
What are the warmest women’s leggings?
The warmest leggings have heavy material designed to keep your body heat in. Fleece linings and wool are two of the most common options.
What are the best leggings for winter?
The best leggings for winter depend on your needs. Fleece and wool are the warmest materials. You might also consider waterproof designs.
Are thermal leggings worth it?
Thermal leggings are definitely worth it if you often exercise in cold temperatures. They remove sweat from your skin while keeping your body heat in.
What do you wear over thermal leggings?
Thermal leggings can be worn with many different outfits. You can pair them with a dress, tunic top, shorts and t-shirt, or a sweater.
Conclusion
As long as you know what you’re looking for, picking the best warm leggings for you is simple. You just need to understand the style, materials, and uses you’re going for. Warm leggings for hiking will have different design strengths than warm maternity leggings.
Our top pick overall is the Minus33 Merino Wool design. These stylish leggings are lightweight enough for use in the spring and fall, while having all the insulation of merino wool. At the same time, they’re super affordable.
