When it comes to winter running, there’s nothing worse than being cold and uncomfortable. There was a time when we thought we could wear anything we wanted. We learned the hard way that winter running needs winter-specific gear. Thankfully, now we know exactly how to keep ourselves warm and toasty. One of the easiest ways to do that is by wearing the best leggings for running in winter. They’re made from warm, breathable fabrics that wick moisture away and keep us dry. Of course, these leggings should also be comfortable and have a good range of motion. Below, you’ll see some of our favorite leggings. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro runner, we’re sure you’ll love our picks!
Table of contents
- TSLA Women’s Thermal Running Leggings
- Avalanche Full-Length Fleece Lined Leggings
- CRZ YOGA Thermal Fleece Lined Leggings
- SANTINY Women’s Fleece Lined Winter Leggings
- Conceited Premium Velvet Leggings
- Odlo Essential Warm Run Tights
- Smartwool Merino Sport Fleece Wind Leggings
- BALEAF Thermal Fleece Lined Leggings
- Under Armour ColdGear Authentics Leggings
- New Balance Impact Run Heat Tights
- Lululemon Fast and Free Tights
- Under Armour Women’s HeatGear Leggings
- 90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Fleece Lined Leggings
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Leggings for Running in Winter?
- What leggings are best in the cold weather?
- Are there winter leggings?
- Is fleece leggings enough for winter?
TSLA Women’s Thermal Running Leggings
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Kicking off this list are the TSLA Women’s Thermal Running Leggings. These are a pair of high-waisted, full-length leggings designed for running in cold weather. While you can’t compare the 90% polyester and 10% elastane fabric to merino wool, these leggings are still warm enough for running when the temperature drops. Based on our test, they were able to wick moisture away and keep our legs warm.
These leggings are available in several different sizes. We tried the medium model, and it fit us well. They moved well with our bodies, and we didn’t have to worry about being restricted. We also think these leggings are true to size. Also, when you don’t feel like running, you can wear them for yoga, cycling, or even lounging at home.
Pros
- The fabric is warm, soft, and stretchy.
- There’s a hidden pocket for storing small items.
- The flatlock seam construction reduces chafing.
Cons
- They don’t have as many pockets as their competitors.
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Avalanche Full-Length Fleece Lined Leggings
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Whether for running, workouts, or running errands, you can always rely on the Avalanche Women’s Full-Length Fleece Lined Leggings. These leggings are made from a soft and stretchy fabric. As the name suggests, they’re lined with fleece, making them ideal for cold-weather wear. At first, we were skeptical, but after wearing it, we understood why it’s so popular. We wore them for the whole day as they were so comfy, and they offered us good support and coverage.
Compared to their competitors, these leggings may not have as many different sizes. They’re available in four sizes, from S to XL. However, the good thing is that they’re true to size. We also loved the addition of the zipped pockets, which held our valuables safely as we were on the move.
Pros
- We’re fans of the chafe-free and quick-drying design.
- The waistband is highly supportive.
- They’re available in an array of different colors.
Cons
- They run a bit big.
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CRZ YOGA Thermal Fleece Lined Leggings
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You may be familiar with this brand from our special lists of the best yoga pants and hot yoga pants. CRZ YOGA’s leggings are nothing you should underestimate, and the Thermal Fleece Lined Leggings are one of them. First, let’s talk about the fit. These leggings managed to control our tummy well thanks to their high-waist design. In addition to that, they stayed in place really well even when we were running.
Also, they have to be one of the most versatile options on the market. During testing, we used them for running. But living up to its name, you can also wear them for yoga. Are you looking for a stylish option for everyday wear? Simply pair them with your most comfortable top! Best of all, these leggings are affordable. Also, did you know that one of CRZ YOGA’s products is also featured in our list of the best long-sleeve shirts for running?
Pros
- Soft and thick fleece lining for extra warmth.
- The fabric is moisture-wicking and highly breathable.
- There are pockets for keys and phones.
Cons
- Some women find these leggings too big.
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SANTINY Women’s Fleece Lined Winter Leggings
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We’re always looking for good quality and comfortable winter leggings, and we were really impressed with what the SANTINY Women’s Fleece Lined Winter Leggings offered us. These leggings are made with a soft, thick fleece lining. It was honestly the perfect material to keep us warm in cold weather. They fit our legs snugly but not too tightly, and the high waist kept our core warm.
Moreover, these leggings are durable. The outer layer is made of a highly durable material that’s resistant to pilling and stretching no matter how many times you wash it. We’ve tested them several times for a variety of activities, including running, walking, and hiking, and they’ve performed well in all conditions.
Pros
- Though thick, the leggings are still comfortable.
- They’re versatile and can be worn for many activities.
- They’re machine washable and easy to care for.
Cons
- The pockets are on the smaller side.
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Conceited Premium Velvet Leggings
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The Conceited Premium Velvet Leggings are a must-have for any woman’s winter wardrobe. With an ultra-soft velvet fabric, which is showered with praise thanks to its stretchiness and comfort, these leggings are to die for. We loved the overall design of these leggings a lot. We spent so much time choosing which color we wanted as there were so many to choose from. Not to mention, they provided us with a flattering fit, making us confident when we were out there.
The fabric of these leggings is simply amazing. It was soft and smooth, and it felt amazing against our skin. It was thick enough to keep us warm but not so thick that it made us sweaty. These leggings were also stretchy enough for us, as we were able to run without feeling restricted. Aside from jogging, you can also wear these fashionable leggings for quite literally any other occasion.
Pros
- The high-waist design provides a flattering fit.
- They’re available in a variety of colors.
- These leggings offer premium quality at an affordable price.
Cons
- Some women may want to size up.
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Odlo Essential Warm Run Tights
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Need a new pair of warm and comfortable leggings for this winter? Take a look at these Odlo Essential Warm Run Tights! Made from a soft, brushed fabric, these leggings are some of the best winter leggings for running. We wore these leggings on a long run in cold temperatures, and our legs were never cold and kept dry throughout the run.
These leggings also have many features that make them perfect for running. For one, we loved the snug fit that kept the leggings in place even when we were running mad. They also come with a zipped pocket for storing keys, lip balms, or even travel-size sunscreens. Like many other running leggings, they also boast reflective details for running in the dark.
Pros
- The fabric wicks moisture away easily.
- These leggings have a stylish and modern design.
- They can be dressed up or down easily.
Cons
- They can be a bit tight in the waistband.
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Smartwool Merino Sport Fleece Wind Leggings
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Best Fabric. If you don’t mind spending more, we highly recommend checking out the Smartwool Merino Sport Fleece Wind Leggings. These leggings are great for running, hiking, and other outdoor activities. We’ve worn them for various activities, and they kept us warm and protected from the elements. We also want to highlight the fabric, which is a blend of merino wool and synthetic fibers. The fabric provided us with a good balance of warmth and breathability when we were running.
Another selling point of these leggings is their windproof front panel. It helps to keep your legs warm when the wind is super strong. Meanwhile, the DWR finish helps to repel both water and snow. We were also surprised with the addition of the reflective elements, which helped us stay visible during low-light conditions.
Pros
- With a slim-fit design, they follow the contours of your body.
- The flatlock seams minimize chafing.
- Adjusting the fit is easy, thanks to the interior waist draw cord.
Cons
- The pockets are small.
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BALEAF Thermal Fleece Lined Leggings
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Best Budget. BALEAF is known for its affordable yet high-quality active gear, and the BALEAF Thermal Fleece Lined Leggings are no different. During testing, we were shocked by the warmth of these leggings. The fleece lining was thicker than we expected and surprisingly soft. It kept our legs warm even when the temperatures out there were under 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Are they comfortable? You bet! These leggings are non-irritating and have a stretchy fit that offers a full range of motion. We’ve worn these leggings for all-day wear, and we’ve never found them to be even slightly uncomfortable. What’s more, there are three functional pockets that you can use to keep your valuables within easy reach. Learn more about these leggings on its official web!
Pros
- There are so many different colors to choose from.
- These leggings are squat-proof.
- The high-waist design offers support and coverage.
Cons
- They run a bit small.
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Under Armour ColdGear Authentics Leggings
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For something under 60 USD, the Under Armour ColdGear Authentics Leggings are truly amazing. First of all, we want to highlight their design. We honestly had a hard time choosing which model we wanted to try. Yep, these leggings are available in many different shades. On top of that, they’re also available in short and tall options. Talk about inclusivity! The star of the show is none other than the dual-layer fabric. Considering the price tag, we couldn’t believe how soft and warm the brushed interior was. Not to mention, the exterior was smooth and managed to dry quickly. This combination of features makes them the perfect option for winter running.
Pros
- The elastic waistband keeps the leggings in place.
- These leggings are relatively affordable.
- They’re both warm and comfy.
Cons
- They could be a little bit smaller than some people expect.
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New Balance Impact Run Heat Tights
4
Available for both men and women, the New Balance Impact Run Heat Tights are among the best leggings for running in winter. We’ve tested them a few times, and they performed well in all of our testing. They kept us warm and dry on runs in temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit. We also loved the poly knit fabric, which allows the leggings to dry quickly.
Additionally, there are tons of pockets that we found very useful. We used the zipped back pocket to store our phones and keys. On top of that, you can also find hip pockets to keep your smaller items. These leggings also stayed in place throughout our runs, and the reflective details were a nice bonus for running in low-light conditions. Learn more about these leggings on the official product page.
Pros
- These leggings have a comfy compression fit.
- They have a lot of pockets.
- The fabric is warm and stretchy.
Cons
- They can be too expensive for some people.
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Lululemon Fast and Free Tights
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Best Premium. The Lululemon Fast and Free Tights may not be affordable, but trust us when we say they’re worth investing in. First, the premium Nulux fabric is sweat-wicking, making the leggings great for running. We’ve worn them before, and they felt lightweight and breathable. The fabric is also highly durable. We’ve washed them multiple times, and they never go bobbly.
We’re suckers for leggings with tons of pockets, and they’re exactly that. The side pockets were big enough for our iPhone, and we always used the pockets in the waistband to keep our keys and other smaller items safe. Not to mention, the four-way stretch design allowed us to have a full range of motion. We once wore these for a 15-mile run and we were impressed by the fit. Need more convincing? Watch this YouTube review video by Dr. Lindsey Schmidt!
Are you looking for more Lululemon products? Check out these Lululemon leggings for women and Lululemon leggings for men.
Pros
- The fabric feels like a second skin.
- They’re available in many different designs.
- With a compressive design, these leggings provide support and muscle containment.
Cons
- They are more expensive than many other leggings.
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Under Armour Women’s HeatGear Leggings
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Best Value for Money. Though affordable, the Under Armour Women’s HeatGear Leggings offer superb performance. When we first tried them out, we were surprised by how comfortable and supportive they were. During our run, we also felt that they did a great job of wicking away sweat and drying fairly quickly. That was all possible thanks to the legendary HeatGear fabric.
In addition to that, this is also a highly versatile pair of leggings. With a minimalist design, we’ve worn them for a variety of different workouts, including running, yoga, and even weight lifting. Feel free to also wear them for everyday activities like running errands! With a stylish and flattering design, they can be easily dressed up and down along with these Under Armour winter coats and Under Armour travel shoes.
Pros
- These leggings are highly comfortable and supportive.
- The compression fit reduces muscle fatigue.
- Thanks to the flatlock seams, they reduce chafing.
Cons
- They can be a bit too long for shorter women.
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90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Fleece Lined Leggings
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Best Overall. Sitting on top of this list is the 90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Fleece Lined Leggings. Specifically designed to keep you active and warm during winter, no leggings can hold a candle to this pair. Several of our team members tried wearing these leggings, and we all agreed that the fleece lining was extremely soft and plush. It did a great job of keeping our legs warm in cold weather. The leggings were also stretchy and comfy, allowing us to move freely.
“We highly recommend these leggings for women who are looking for warm and comfy leggings. From running errands to running and relaxing at home, you’ll want to wear them every day.”
WOW Travel
As the name suggests, these leggings have a high waist, which provides support and more coverage. We also loved how it helped the leggings from slipping down when we were running. When it comes to the look, these leggings look like many other options on this list. It’s not a bad thing, though. With a streamlined design, they look good on most women and are available in a wide variety of colors.
Pros
- These leggings are available in two options: pockets or no pockets.
- Despite their amazing quality, they’re still affordable.
- They’re backed by a 30-day money-back warranty.
Cons
- They tend to run small.
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Our Verdict!
Considering their price tag, features, and comfort, we think the 90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Fleece Lined Leggings deserve to be the best overall pick. However, it doesn’t mean the rest aren’t worth considering. We’ve categorized some of them based on the following criteria: take a look!
- Best Value for Money: Under Armour Women’s HeatGear Leggings
- Best Premium: Lululemon Fast and Free Tights
- Best Budget: BALEAF Thermal Fleece Lined Leggings
- Best Fabric: Smartwool Merino Sport Fleece Wind Leggings
How To Choose The Best Leggings for Running in Winter?
Now that you’ve seen our favorite pairs of leggings, it’s time to learn more about the important factors to consider:
Warmth
Of course, the most important factor is choosing leggings that keep you warm in cold weather. You’ll want leggings made from thick, insulating fabrics like fleece. You should also consider extra features like water resistance if you plan on running in snowy conditions.
Fit
Leggings for running should fit snugly but not too tightly. This is so they allow for a full range of motion. If possible, you should also opt for a high-waisted model so you’ll get maximum support and coverage.
Breathability
Yes; you’ll want your leggings to be warm. However, they should also be breathable so you won’t overheat while running. We recommend looking for leggings made from fabrics that can wick away sweat.
For more winter running gear, check out these amazing vests for winter running and jackets for running in winter!
What leggings are best in the cold weather?
The best leggings for cold weather are those made with warm and insulating fabrics. They should also have a snug fit.
Are there winter leggings?
Yes, so many brands out there produce leggings with features that help keep you warm during winter.
Is fleece leggings enough for winter?
Yes! Most fleece leggings are warm and comfortable enough for winter activities.
