11 of the Best Warm Leggings for Winter Runs (or Errands, Brunches and Everything in Between)

Whether we’re working for home or heading out for a chilly, mid-January jog, we basically live in leggings at this point. Warm leggings are a winter weather essential because, let’s face it, as temperatures plummet, our poor legs deserve all the coziness we can give them.

Our brains automatically assume warm leggings have to be fleece-lined, and while that can be true, there are so many other kinds out there to keep your legs toasty. Here, the 11 best warm leggings to grab this winter.

RELATED: 25 Pairs of Leggings with Pockets That Are Big Enough to Hold All Your Essentials

1. Sweaty Betty Ski Merino Base Layer Leggings

Best for Skiing

These thermal leggings are made of a merino wool blend and are the perfect base layer to go under your ski pants. We love the wintery design on the bottom and the fact that they’re seamless.

Buy It ($138)

Available in sizes XS to XL

2. Spanx Faux Leather Leggings

Best Faux Leather

If you’re going for a more dressed up look, these faux leather leggings do a magnificent job at keeping out the cold. The compression will sculpt your curves, plus they’re super comfortable.

Buy It ($98)

Available in sizes XS to 3X

3. On Tights Long

Best for Running

Outdoor running in the winter is not for the faint of heart. These leggings will do a phenomenal job at keeping your legs warm while you get your miles in and will help wick sweat at the same time.

Buy It ($109)

Available in sizes XS to XL

4. Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tight

Most Breathable

If you’re an outdoor runner, these leggings are great for longer runs. The Nulux fabric feels lightweight and breathable by letting out excess heat and keeping your legs at a comfortable temperature. They have four way stretch for optimal flexibility and the smooth, sleek material helps avoid any pilling and chaffing.

Buy It ($128)

Available in sizes 0 to 20

5. Good American Shine Seamless Legging

Best Sculpting

Complete with a high waist and ribbed fabric, these leggings are thick and compressive for support and lift. The material is nylon-based which is shockingly warm thanks to its tightly woven pattern. We also love this burnt orange shade, which will add a little pop to your outfit.

Buy It ($79)

Available in sizes 00 to 8

6. Nike Pro Therma-Fit Leggings

Best for Layering

Pop these leggings under sweats or jeans on super cold days. They have medium to high compression and are a very fitted to sit snug on your body as a base layer.

Buy It ($60)

Available in sizes XXS to XL

7. 90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Fleece Lined Leggings

Best Fleece-Lined

Fleece-lined leggings are a great choice if you’re going out and about for the day and just want to stay warm. These aren’t too thick (so they won’t hinder mobility), but the soft lining of fleece will provide an extra bit of warmth.

$27 at Amazon

Available in sizes XS to 3X

8. Baleaf Women’s Fleece Lined Winter Leggings

Best for Everyday Wear

A trusty pair of leggings you can throw on every day without thinking is essential to a well-rounded wardrobe, and these are our pick for the winter. They have a light fleece lining and are stretchy enough to be perfect for lounging around.

$36; $28 at Amazon

Available in sizes XS to 3X

9. Lululemon Base Pace High Rise Ribbed Tight

Best for Walking

Ribbed material is a great choice for extra warmth because it’s typically a bit thicker. This pair has a high waist and great compression to stay snug—ideal for going out on long winter walk.

Buy It ($118)

Available in sizes 0 to 20

10. Alo Yoga Airbrush High-Waist Flutter Legging

Most Stylish

We’re pairing these ultra-chic leggings with a puffer jacket (preferably of the cropped variety) for a winter look that’s equal parts warm and trendy. The material of these leggings is nice and thick, offering a lot of support and warmth.

Buy It ($108)

Available in sizes XXS to XL

11. UGG Ashlee Double Knit Leggings

Best for Commuters

Whether you have a long walk to work or you morning commute entails standing on a train platform, wear these double-knit leggings to keep you warm and switch into your real work outfit when you get to the office (or wear these under wide-leg trousers—no one will know the difference).

Buy It ($75)

Available in sizes S to XL

RELATED: 11 Brands Like Patagonia to Outfit All Your Outdoor Needs in Style

PureWow may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from PureWow's editorial and sales departments.