Home | WebMail |

      Calgary | Regions | Local Traffic Report | Advertise on Action News | Contact

Posted: 2023-12-28T10:45:05Z | Updated: 2023-12-28T10:45:05Z These Winter-Ready Leggings Are Basically Pants | HuffPost Life

These Winter-Ready Leggings Are Basically Pants

These warm, stretchy options will feel oh-so comfy no matter the winter activity.
Open Image Modal

Fear not: Cold outdoor temperatures don’t necessarily mean you need to start wearing hard pants with a fly. For the sake of staying cozy while being comfy, we rounded up our favorite winter leggings that will keep you warm as they stretch with you.

From fleece-lined to faux leather, these options are basically pants but still give you the comfort and compression of leggings. Grab a pair for running in the cold, lounging around the house or going out when you’d rather stay in bed but are trying to be “fun” and “exciting.”

Some are water-resistant, some are weather-proof , but all the warm and stylish options here will save you from real pants without sacrificing any body heat in the cold. 

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

1
A pair of Spanx faux leather leggings to embrace your inner rockstar
A little edgy and cool while still being super wearable, these faux leather leggings hit you in all the right places. They have a shaping waistband and a contoured fit to keep your booty perky while still being thick enough to wear as pants. Best of all, there's no center seam, so say goodbye to awkward bunching in the front.

Promising review: "I originally borrowed a pair of these leggings from a friend. It was love at first try on. I had to get my own pair. They are so versatile - can be worn to work, just to kick it around town, or dressed up for a night out. They are comfortable and make me feel great about my body. Still show my curves but give me a little tuck where I need it." Katie G.
2
A sporty pair of Lululemon cold weather running leggings
They're called running leggings, but you'll find yourself wearing them while running errands, too. Made from technical fleece with weather-repellent panels, they have a drawstring and ankle zips for a little extra shaping and pizazz. Wear then on a winter hike or run, or sport them during the day with a sweater and boots.

Promising review: "This is the cold weather running tight I have been waiting for Lululemon to make. It checks all the boxes: drawstring at the high waist, fleece inside, wind proof, ankle zips, zipper pocket for phone (although I prefer it on the back so the phone stays warm and dry under the jacket in rain/snow)" Sara
3
A pair of fleece-lined Athleta leggings that look super chic
Stay cozy and warm while still looking put together with this pair of fleece-lined leggings from Athleta. They have masterfully placed and concealed pockets to hold all your belongings and an internal drawstring to ensure they fit great.

Promising review: "These fit super well and keep me toasty warm on my winter walks. Warm enough that I don't need a long puffer coat to keep my tush warm. Gray a nice neutral change from my usual black." Athleta customer
4
Or another Athleta option that are basically legging cargo pants
Stay dry, warm and stylish with this pair of water-repellent hiking leggings from Athleta. They have pockets along the hips and thighs to hold your valuables and add a little visual interest. They're abrasion-resistant, so they won't snag or pill, and they're water-resistant to keep you cozy and dry on the go. Though they're made for hiking and outdoor sports, they're sharp enough to wear to the office or dinner.

Promising review: "I'm in secondary education and our primary goal when buying work clothes is to find that magic combo of comfort and professional. These leggings are perfect!! The pants themselves are very well made and so comfortable! Very practical when teaching and doing lab work. With all the pockets, you can hold a phone, keys, clicker and some random things students tend to hand you throughout the day. I wear them some days with boots similar to those in the picture and other days with sparkly converse. They look amazing with both styles. I have 2 pairs and about to purchase 2 other others. Athleta please make these in cherry red!!! I would die of excitement. Be sure bury me open casket while wearing these in cherry red." Rachel S
5
A budget-friendly set of thermals you'll wear all winter
A great base layer, these lightweight, quick-dry leggings are stretchy and soft while still being comfortably compressive. The fabric has a brushed feel and offers a snug fit for layering under snow pants or jeans. Breathable and odor-resistant, you'll love to rock these on the ski slopes or later on the couch.

Promising review: "These base layer leggings are perfect! Super soft, stretchy and lightweight enough to wear under any pants without feeling like I have too many layers on. I will wear them around the house and to sleep in, but too thin to wear alone outside of the house. I bought the dark gray and the stormy night. I'm 5'6" 140 lbs with an apple shape (carry my extra weight in the middle with slim legs) and Large fits me perfect. I could likely wear a medium as well. I will be buying more now!" dreamer7
6
A set of fleece-lined water-resistant thermals with helpful pockets
We've written about these reviewer-loved fleece-lined thermal leggings before at HuffPost and we will again. Owned and loved by senior editor Janie Campbell, these ultra-warm leggings have a high-waist fit with gentle midsection compression to keep you feeling snatched, and five utility pockets for your phone, keys and wallet. Campbell says they're great for extra coziness when lounging around the house or when spending time out in the cold.

Promising review: "I don't generally leave reviews unless I absolutely love or hate something. These leggings are one of the best pair I have ever bought! They have 2 pockets on both legs and a zip pocket in the back that is big enough for a phone (unless you have a tablet sized phone); think palm sized phone. They are comfortable and not restricting, and are warm but not too warm; down to 30s today and I did not feel chilled but house is around 70 and I was fine there too. They are a little long for my short legs but I don't mind the slight bunching. I got the burgundy XL which fits great! I am 215lbs at 5"4' and I have thicker thighs and butt for reference. Very happy with this purchase. I'll see how they hold up!" Amy Lasley
7
Uniqlo's ultra warm leggings that promise to live up to their name
Known for their elevated basics, it's no surprise Uniqlo makes amazing winter leggings. They're moisture-wicking to keep you dry and comfortable with a fluffy brushed lining that promises to feel great on the skin. The heat-absorbing fabric will help keep your body warm throughout the day.

Promising review: "Originally purchased to attend an outdoor sporting event, and worked perfectly under jeans. As someone whose thighs are always freezing, I can confidently say these are hands down the best base layer for cold weather. They kept me warm without being too bulky to wear under fitted jeans. Also love wearing them to lounge around the house when it gets chilly!" Uniqlo customer

Before You Go

29 Winter Clothing Items That Reviewers Said Have Become A "Staple" In Their Closet
A plaid shacket that has a drop-shoulder design, button cuffs and plenty of room for layering(01 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes SXXL and in 12 colors and styles. Reviewers say this runs large, so depending on the type of fit you're going for, you may want to order a size down.

Promising review: "Whats not to love about this jacket??? Its soft but has a good weight to it. Color is on-trend but classic enough to be a fave for a number of years. Paired it with blue jeans, black jeans, and leggings all for different looks and received many compliments. Love that it has side pockets they could be a bit bigger though but better than no pockets! Def recommend this as a fall and winter staple! Im 55", 145lbs; ordered a medium and it fits the way I thought!" Wendy M.
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A pair of breathable high-waisted leggings with moisture-wicking, fleece-lined material(02 of29)
Open Image Modal
They'll keep you warm and comfy when working out, running errands or lounging at home especially as the temperature falls. They also have a hidden waistband pocket! They're available in sizes XS6XL, in 19 colors and in two different pocket options.

Promising review:
"I bought this pair of leggings initially so I could have something warm and comfortable to wear while working at home that wasn't just a pair of sweatpants they ended up becoming a staple of my workout wardrobe too! I ended up getting two more pairs in the no-pocket style so I can cycle through them during the week for my outdoor walks/runs. Fit-wise, if you're not looking for something super-snug, I'd suggest going a size up. The legs are a little long on me, but I'm short (5'1") and I'm used to things being a little long on me. My only gripe about these is that the side pocket isn't anywhere near big enough to hold my phone, but I've got a huge phone, so I'm used to it not fitting in pockets easily. Long story short: I love these, and if you're looking for warm leggings, either for working out or for lounging around the house, you should get a pair of these." Beth Lynn Nolen
(credit:www.amazon.com)
Or a pair of reviewer-beloved The Gym People joggers(03 of29)
Open Image Modal
They have a tapered design and a stretchy waistband that'll probably make them one of the most reached-for pieces in your closet. They also have pockets! They're available in sizes XSXXL and in 16 colors.

Promising review:
"I love these pants! I have several pairs and a few different colors. I wear them to the gym, errands, and for lounging. I have both mediums and larges, depending on how I'm feeling on the day. I honestly wear these so much that I consider them to be somewhat of a 'uniform,' a staple for a grab and go, cute but casual and put together outfit." Pam
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A three-pack of adorable slouchy socks(04 of29)
Open Image Modal
They're the perfect accessory for an effortlessly comfy-yet-cute look. They're also available in several colors.

Promising review:
"These slouch socks are such a staple. I ONLY wear slouch socks. They are so comfortable, so durable and they are so cute! I love them so much I purchased another pack. These are my go to socks. And they feel like clouds! They're also true to color! They also go with ANYTHING!" Chyna Mari
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A pair of thermal velvet leggings(05 of29)
Open Image Modal
They combine the beauty of sheer tights with the comfort of warm leggings. Wear these fleece-lined babies under your dress or skirt and you'll be able to brave the cold weather without having to sacrifice a cute outfit. Plus, they're also available in non-translucent styles! They're available in sizes XSXXL, in 10 colors and in multipacks.

Promising review:
"Super warm, good staple piece if you live in a colder climate. Ordered these for the winter thats coming, I live up north so I was looking for a good base layer to layer up. I love the sheer elastic around the ankles to tuck into my socks so they don't fall down in my boots." Emery
(credit:Amazon)
A loose-fitting corduroy button-down shirt with button cuffs and a charming turn-down collar(06 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes SXXL and in 41 colors.

Promising review:
"Staple for any outfit to layer or accessorize. Material is great quality, dress it up or down. Ive worn this to the gym with leggings and sneakers and to brunch in booties with jeans, did not let me down!" Melissa Garcia
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A lightweight mesh-sleeve blouse(07 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes SXXL and in 25 colors and sleeve styles.

Promising reviews:
"Nice lightweight shirt. Completely on-trend with slightly puffy sleeves, great weight, good quality fabric. A must-have staple." Lily

"The fit is amazing. It looked super cute for date night. It was comfortable because of the stretchy body. And the sheer sleeves made the top look more fancy. I received several compliments!" mmts
(credit:amazon.com)
A reviewer-beloved Carhartt beanie(08 of29)
Open Image Modal
It comes in a bunch of different colors, so you can add a stylish accessory to your outfit while keeping your head toasty warm. It has over 121,400 5-star ratings!

Promising review:
"I own every color. Its a staple. Ive given this as a gift so many times I dont know how many times I can review it. Im obsessed with these hats. I own every single color and most of them I own in two." Jasmine Young
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A pair of sherpa-lined sweatpants(09 of29)
Open Image Modal
They're available in sizes XSXXL and in 10 colors.

Promising review:
"It fits very well. I live in Seattle and these are amazing for the cold weather we're starting to get. I wear them in 3555 degrees F weather and I can't feel any cold hitting my legs. I own them in pink and grey already. I'm about to buy them in black and navy. I truly think these are a staple if you want warm, cozy pants!" Ash
(credit:Amazon)
A moisture-wicking thermal set that is perfect for wearing underneath your clothes(10 of29)
Open Image Modal
Its ultra soft fleece and heat retention will keep you nice and warm, plus it's designed to be stretchy and breathable. The set is available in sizes XS3XL and in 15 colors.

Promising review:
"Purchased these as a base layer for our trip to Colorado. They definitely did the job as a good base layer. It was -17 degrees on our first day out in the mountain and these with an additional layer kept us cozy all day. These were a staple of our attire the whole trip. We did size up per recommended by others and it was accurate. So size up and just purchase!" Ali
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A timeless Wrangler jean jacket(11 of29)
Open Image Modal
It goes with basically any outfit, and you can even throw it on over a hoodie for a bundled, layered look. It's machine washable, has over 14,000 5-star ratings and is available in sizes XSXL and eight colors.

Promising review: "I have been searching high and low for the perfect denim jacket. That search ended here! It's become a wardrobe staple for me, and I have to remind myself to limit how often I wear it because I want to wear it everyday! It stretches perfectly, it's warm without being hot, the pockets are perfectly sized and placed, I could go on and on! I love this jacket! It washes well, travels well, keeps its shape and keeps you warm!" Alexa
(credit:www.amazon.com)
Or a faux leather jacket to easily add a touch of classic coolness to any outfit(12 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes XSXXL and in 20 colors.

Promising review:
"I have been trying so hard to find a duplicate faux leather jacket to replace the one I purchased from Forever 21 a few years ago. With that being said, I fell upon this baby right here on Amazon. I must say, I LOVE IT! Definitely a purchase I am satisfied with. I compared my measurements with the size chart provided and picked a size closer to my preferred fit and I just couldn't be happier with what I got. It's my STAPLE JACKET now." LilRed
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A slouchy half-zip sweater with buttery soft material and a V-neck collar(13 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes SXL and in 21 colors.

Promising reviews:
"This sweater is good thick material and is a perfect staple for your wardrobe." K Dramatic

"I LOVE THIS SWEATER! So soft and comfy but still polished looking! Perfect for my fall WFH wardrobe update. Works layered or on its own. I am going to get another color!" SSK-LA
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A lightweight jumpsuit that you can easily dress up(14 of29)
Open Image Modal
It has an elastic waist, keyhole back and an elegant off-the-shoulder design to help you look effortlessly put-together. It's available in sizes S3XL and 32 colors and patterns.

Promising review:
"Y'all. If heaven were a piece of clothing, it would be this jumpsuit. The fabric is so buttery soft and it is so cute and chic. You can easily dress it up with accent jewelry and some cute shoes, or nap in it. It has a cute boatneck cut, but if you leave the top keyhole unbuttoned you can achieve the hanging off the shoulder look. It is the perfect amount of 'baggy'. I probably could have ordered a small, but I am happy with the medium. Will definitely be re-ordering in other sizes. This is a new staple piece in my closet." Rachel Landrum
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A chunky soft knit cardigan because it isn't winter without this classic staple(15 of29)
Open Image Modal
Throw it on over your leggings and T-shirt for a basic lounge outfit, or wear it with your favorite pair of jeans and a simple top. It's available in sizes S3XL and in 29 colors.

Promising review:
"Just as expected. If you want a baggier and oversized look I would recommend going up a size. I got a medium and it is just the right amount of oversize for me. The quality is nice as well, love my new black cardigan! It's a great staple piece." Alexis A.
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A chic and easy-to-accessorize mock-neck sweater for a casual or more polished look(16 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes XS6X and in 17 colors.

Promising review: "I am so pleased with these sweaters. I normally wear a medium sweater, so I ordered the black, charcoal, and navy in medium and they are an instant staple in my wardrobe. They fit perfectly and go well with a pencil skirt or trousers for the office. 10/10 would recommend." Lane Augustine
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A fan-favorite Orolay parka with over 20,000 5-star ratings(17 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's got a fleece-lined hood and six big pockets, plus it's designed to be windproof. It's available in women's sizes XXS5XL and in 13 colors.

Check our out Orolay down jacket review to learn more!

Promising review: "Is it really as amazing as everyone swears it is? Yes! This is warm and covers my perpetually cold butt without feeling like I cant move like in my down jackets. Its not bulky and I have plenty of room for sweaters underneath. This is a staple in my winter wardrobe as a mom of three always on the go and has gone back and forth between my closet and my college age sister's closet many times!" Lacy B.
(credit:Maitland Quitmeyer / BuzzFeed)
A chic long-sleeve tunic top that provides all the warmth and comfort of your fave sweatshirt(18 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes SXXL and in eight colors.

Promising reviews:
"Lots of compliments. Everyone asks about this super cute top every time I wear it. I bought several and it's my staple winter top now." Tiffany Taft

"Love love love this sweater! Warm enough without being bulky. I want one in every color! Color is true to pictures. No defects. Definitely a great staple. You will not be disappointed with this purchase!" April
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A pair of modish cargo pants that will take any casual look to the next level(19 of29)
Open Image Modal
They're cute, comfy and have convenient front and side pockets. They're available in sizes XS3XL and in five colors.

Klassy Network is an Asian-American woman-owned small business based in Orlando, Florida that sells stylish clothing, including their TikTok viral Brami top (aka a top that provides amazing support and doesn't require a bra underneath).

Promising review: "The cargos are perfect staple piece for my outfits! I get to wear a complete Klassy Network outfit, and it feels great. I am 52" and my pant size varies from size 68. I ordered a medium and it fits perfectly! I like the high-rise look, so I never got it hemmed, but I'm obsessed its perfect for when I want to wear heels and dress up." Alexis T.
(credit:Klassy Network)
A trendy cropped puffer vest to add both warmth and style without being bulky(20 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes XSXXL and in 20 colors.

Promising review:
"New fall/winter staple. I am absolutely OBSESSED with this puffer vest. It is lightweight and not overbearing, but at the same time it keeps me warm and feels so comfy. I took the advice of other reviews and ordered an extra small even though I'm usually a small, and I'm so glad I did. I love the cropped look that the smaller size gives me. I will certainly be buying this in other colors." Lydia Spencer
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A versatile long-sleeve bodysuit with a square neckline, a snap closure and endless styling possibilities(21 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes XSXXL and in 24 colors.

Promising reviews: "This body suit is perfection. Comfortable and now a staple in my wardrobe for casual occasions, work, or even going out. It's versatile! Love it." Amanda S.

"I'm usually not a bodysuit gal but these are so comfortable. The material is light but not cheap looking. There is plenty of room in the torso so it doesn't ride up like some bodysuits. It fits snugly but not too tight. They are great staple items for pants, jeans, skirts and shorts. I purchased three and will be buying more." Jerr
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A buttery soft ribbed knit long sleeve(22 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes SXXL and in 26 colors.

Promising review:
"I got this shirt in a large (I usually wear a medium) because I wanted to be able to wear it with leggings, but also have a little room in it. I have washed it, no shrinkage. I do hang it to dry just because I dont want the colors to fade, which nothing has shown me in the washing process that it will. Just ordered my second one in a different color, great staple to my wardrobe and so grateful I have found this shirt." Kirsten Fountain
(credit:www.amazon.com)
An open-front knit cardigan with a stylish lapel neckline and two front pockets(23 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes SXXL and in 24 colors.

Promising reviews: "I bought this to go over some of my winter dresses. Love the color and it is so comfortable! It will be a staple in my closet now!" Dana L Knight

"This is a classic, must-have wardrobe staple. Very well constructed. Beautiful weight and knit is smooth and soft. Holds its shape." janice
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A soft pullover striped sweater that's lightweight yet cozy(24 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes SXXL and in 23 styles.

Promising review:
"Extremely comfortable. Not itchy. Did wear a tank top under it as I was afraid there would be areas that were see-through. The sleeves are perfectly loose. Perfect sweater staple!" Kyndall D
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A chic button-up oversized blazer(25 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes SL and in 17 colors.

Promising review:
"You can absolutely never go wrong with a classic camel blazer, and this one is even trendier since it's slightly oversized. I still think it's fitted enough to be a wardrobe staple and not wane as trends fade away, though. I can dress it down with a cute crop top and some mom jeans, or dress for work with a cami top and some white slacks. It's such a versatile jacket and I'm pretty excited to style it a billion different ways this spring. The material is quite nice, too, and the lining will keep you pretty warm, especially in the shade or in the heavily air-conditioned office. Go ahead and take a chance on this one; it's been one of the best additions to my wardrobe this season and I foresee this piece serving me for lots of years to come :)" Bibby928
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A trendy oversize sweater vest that combines comfort and elegance(26 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes S3XL and in 11 colors.

Promising review:
"Timeless, easy breezy style Id wear daily! Going to buy a couple more! Well made, warm and stylish! Great staple piece of clothing!" CVHJ
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A pair of warm, moisture-repelling insulated bib overalls(27 of29)
Open Image Modal
They're available in sizes XS4X, in tall, short and inseam styles and in 28 colors.

Promising review:
"Incredible staple piece for winter wear. This jumpsuit was amazing, kept me incredibly warm while snow tubing and boarding. They are waterproof and the cut makes my body look amazing. Great find!" Zoraya
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A moisture-wicking long-sleeve sports bra to give your arms an extra layer of warmth(28 of29)
Open Image Modal
It's available in sizes XSXL and in 23 styles, including some with short sleeves.

Promising reviews:
"Good quality and fit true to size. I love the material and this is a staple in my gymwear." Hannah

"Im OBSESSED with this top! I have a bigger chest and never thought Id be able to wear something like this without a bra underneath but this top has great support and padding! I workout in this top comfortably and get so many compliments." Lexie
(credit:www.amazon.com)
An A-line woolen midi skirt if you refuse to compromise style for comfort(29 of29)
Open Image Modal
With its classic plaid pattern and fully elastic waistband, this gives you both! It's available in sizes XS3XL and in 60 styles.

Promising review:
"Heavy skirt for the colder months but light enough that I can wear in spring and fall, too. I absolutely love the pockets and am glad that the waist has a little stretch to it. So happy it is such a versatile wardrobe staple." Blaze
(credit:www.amazon.com)

HuffPost Shoppings Best Finds

MORE IN SHOPPING