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.
In This Article
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What to look for
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The best leggings for snow
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 leggings for snow 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
Sweaty Betty, Ski Merino Base Layer Leggings — $148.00
Sizes available: XS-XL
For days when you’re ready to hit the slopes, Sweaty Betty’s Ski 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: black
Material: merino wool and nylon
- Moisture-wicking
- High-waisted
- Lightweight
Helly Hansen, Lifa Pants — $100.00
Sizes available: XS-XL
Using a blend of merino wool and polypropylene, Helly Hansen’s Life 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
Material: merino wool and polypropylene
- Double layered
- Moisture-wicking
- Non-itch
Patagonia, Capilene Air Bottoms — $139.00
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
Material: merino wool and recycled polyester
- Odor-resistant
- Moisture-wicking
- Warm
Crz Yoga, Thermal Fleece Lined Leggings — $30.00
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
Material: polyamide and spandex
- Affordable
- High-waisted
- Hidden pocket
The North Face, Women’s Winter Warm Tights — $89.00
Sizes available: XS-XL
Not only are these leggings ultra cozy, the North Face’s Winter 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
Material: polyester and elastane
- Wind- and water- repellent
- Moisture-wicking
- Features pockets
- May cause bagginess for some
Athleta, Altitude Tight — $109.00
Sizes available: XXS-3XL
Take your winter sports to new heights with Athleta’s Altitude tights. Constructed out of nylon, polyester, and spandex, the leggings are stretchy and warm, 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: 4
Material: nylon, polyester, and spandex
- High-waisted
- Features pocket
- Stretchy
Eddie Bauer, Motion Women’s Crossover Trail Adventure High Rise Legging — $60.00
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
Material: polyester
- Odor-resistant
- High-waisted
- Features pockets
Alo, High-Waist Winter Warmth — $75.00
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: black
Material: polyester and spandex
- Flattering
- High-waisted
- Warm
- Size range limited (not the most size-inclusive brand, overall)
Willit, Women’s Fleece Lined Leggings — $31.00
Sizes available: XS-XXL
There’s a reason why these leggings have amassed more than 600 five-star ratings 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
Material: polyester and spandex
- Affordable
- Features pockets
- Water-repellent
Under Armour, Women’s ColdGear® Authentics Leggings — $55.00
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.
Colors: 5
Material: polyester and elastane
- Moisture-wicking
- Dries fast
Columbia, Trek Leggings — $30.00
Sizes available: XS-XXL
Who says you have to skip out on winter treks? Not with this pair from Columbia. Moisture-wicking, stretchy, and warm, the Trek leggings will have you ready to ascend new heights. Plus, you get a cargo pocket for all of your tiny goods: chapstick, credit card, keys, and more.
Colors: 2
Material: cotton and elastane
- UPF 50 protection
- High-waisted
- Features pocket
- Pocket may be too small for some phones
Old Navy, High-Waisted Fleece-Lined Leggings — $23.00
Sizes available: XS-4XL
Did someone say fleece-lined leggings? Old Navy, a tried-and-true American 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 four cute fall and neutral colors: black, grey, burgundy, and cream. Plus, they come in petite, tall, and regular lengths.
Colors: 4
Material: cotton, polyester, spandex
- Affordable
- Fleece-lined
- Size variety
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Post source: Well and Good