The 6 Best Fleece-Lined Leggings to Keep You Warm and Cozy This Winter, Tested by Real People

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

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View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

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People

We tested 21 of the most popular fleece-lined leggings on the market to find the best leggings money can buy. We hiked in them, worked out in them, ran errands in them, and even dressed them up. The best fleece-lined leggings proved to be winter essentials, providing so much warmth in cold conditions.

Here are the best fleece-lined leggings PEOPLE Tested.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:SALE90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Fleece-lined Leggings at Amazon$28$20Jump to ReviewBest Overall, Runner-Up:Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights at Amazon$99Jump to ReviewBest for Hiking:lululemon Fast and Free Fleece Tight at Lululemon$148Jump to ReviewBest Everyday:Eddie Bauer Crossover Winter Trail Adventure High-Rise Leggings at Amazon$99Jump to ReviewBest for Lounging:SALELands’ End High Rise Fleece Lined Pocket Leggings at Amazon$60$45Jump to ReviewBest for Working Out:SALEUnder Armour ColdGear Compression Leggings at Amazon$55$36Jump to ReviewWe Also Recommend:Old Navy Side-Pocket Legging at Old NavyJump to ReviewWe Also Recommend:Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette at Amazon$48Jump to Review

Best Overall:SALE90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Fleece-lined Leggings at Amazon$28$20Jump to ReviewBest Overall, Runner-Up:Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights at Amazon$99Jump to ReviewBest for Hiking:lululemon Fast and Free Fleece Tight at Lululemon$148Jump to ReviewBest Everyday:Eddie Bauer Crossover Winter Trail Adventure High-Rise Leggings at Amazon$99Jump to ReviewBest for Lounging:SALELands’ End High Rise Fleece Lined Pocket Leggings at Amazon$60$45Jump to ReviewBest for Working Out:SALEUnder Armour ColdGear Compression Leggings at Amazon$55$36Jump to ReviewWe Also Recommend:Old Navy Side-Pocket Legging at Old NavyJump to ReviewWe Also Recommend:Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette at Amazon$48Jump to Review

Best Overall:SALE90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Fleece-lined Leggings at Amazon$28$20Jump to Review

Best Overall:SALE90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Fleece-lined Leggings at Amazon$28$20

Best Overall:

SALE

Best Overall, Runner-Up:Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights at Amazon$99Jump to Review

Best Overall, Runner-Up:Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights at Amazon$99

Best Overall, Runner-Up:

Best for Hiking:lululemon Fast and Free Fleece Tight at Lululemon$148Jump to Review

Best for Hiking:lululemon Fast and Free Fleece Tight at Lululemon$148

Best for Hiking:

Best Everyday:Eddie Bauer Crossover Winter Trail Adventure High-Rise Leggings at Amazon$99Jump to Review

Best Everyday:Eddie Bauer Crossover Winter Trail Adventure High-Rise Leggings at Amazon$99

Best Everyday:

Best for Lounging:SALELands’ End High Rise Fleece Lined Pocket Leggings at Amazon$60$45Jump to Review

Best for Lounging:SALELands’ End High Rise Fleece Lined Pocket Leggings at Amazon$60$45

Best for Lounging:

Best for Working Out:SALEUnder Armour ColdGear Compression Leggings at Amazon$55$36Jump to Review

Best for Working Out:SALEUnder Armour ColdGear Compression Leggings at Amazon$55$36

Best for Working Out:

We Also Recommend:Old Navy Side-Pocket Legging at Old NavyJump to Review

We Also Recommend:Old Navy Side-Pocket Legging at Old Navy

We Also Recommend:

We Also Recommend:Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette at Amazon$48Jump to Review

We Also Recommend:Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette at Amazon$48

Best Overall90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Fleece-lined Leggings

Best Overall

90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Fleece-lined Leggings

PHOTO: Amazon

Star QualitiesButtery soft interiorExterior fabric is silky and smoothNot see-throughRed FlagsWaistband is slightly tighter than the size implies

Star QualitiesButtery soft interiorExterior fabric is silky and smoothNot see-through

Buttery soft interior

Exterior fabric is silky and smooth

Not see-through

Red FlagsWaistband is slightly tighter than the size implies

Waistband is slightly tighter than the size implies

These high-quality leggings have a cozy, buttery-soft interior, a smooth and toning exterior fabric, and a lengthy silhouette that works well for longer legs. We admit that these leggings have a slightly tighter waistband than expected; however, we think it adds to their function — being tighter around the belly helps them stay up no matter what activity you’re doing in them.

Most notably, the leggings are fully opaque and don’t deteriorate after washing. After several washes, walks, house cleanings, and general life, these have held up great — and still feel like new.

Material:90% polyester, 10% spandex |Sizes:XS-3XL|Colors:30

People / Dera Burreson

Best Overall, Runner-UpTitle Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec TightsPHOTO: Title Nine$99 at AmazonView on Titlenine.comStar QualitiesLeggings didn’t budge during wearFabric is very soft to the touchWarm but breathableRed FlagsPricier than some others we’ve triedThese leggings instantly impressed us with their quality. While they’re not particularly thick, we were surprised at how warm and opaque they are. They’re perfect for outdoor activitiesandrunning errands, since they’re warm enough for the outdoors, yet breathable enough to not overheat when inside.The fit was perfect — snug enough to not slip down yet comfortable for all-day wear. The material is incredibly soft, with seams thoughtfully placed to avoid chafing. Beyond that, these leggings held up nicely in the wash, and we can anticipate getting a lot of use out of them before they show any signs of wear.Material:90% recycled polyester, 10% spandex |Sizes:XS-XL; petite sizes available|Colors:7People / Ciara McCune

Best Overall, Runner-UpTitle Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec TightsPHOTO: Title Nine$99 at AmazonView on Titlenine.com

Best Overall, Runner-UpTitle Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights

PHOTO: Title Nine

$99 at AmazonView on Titlenine.com

Star QualitiesLeggings didn’t budge during wearFabric is very soft to the touchWarm but breathableRed FlagsPricier than some others we’ve tried

Star QualitiesLeggings didn’t budge during wearFabric is very soft to the touchWarm but breathable

Leggings didn’t budge during wear

Fabric is very soft to the touch

Warm but breathable

Red FlagsPricier than some others we’ve tried

Pricier than some others we’ve tried

These leggings instantly impressed us with their quality. While they’re not particularly thick, we were surprised at how warm and opaque they are. They’re perfect for outdoor activitiesandrunning errands, since they’re warm enough for the outdoors, yet breathable enough to not overheat when inside.

The fit was perfect — snug enough to not slip down yet comfortable for all-day wear. The material is incredibly soft, with seams thoughtfully placed to avoid chafing. Beyond that, these leggings held up nicely in the wash, and we can anticipate getting a lot of use out of them before they show any signs of wear.

Material:90% recycled polyester, 10% spandex |Sizes:XS-XL; petite sizes available|Colors:7

People / Ciara McCune

Best for Hikinglululemon Fast and Free Fleece TightPHOTO: lululemon$148 at LululemonStar QualitiesWater-resistant exteriorVery durableRed FlagsSnugger than regular Lululemon pants (may want to size up)These fleece-lined leggings are some of the bestLululemon productswe’ve found. We hiked roughly 20 miles in these leggings and found them extremely soft, water-resistant, opaque, and well-fitted. They fit slightly more snugly than typicalLululemon leggingsand we would recommend sizing up due to the thicker material.While warm, these leggings aren’t warm enough to be worn alone in below-freezing temps. However, the leggings did stay dry while it rained, which is a huge plus. They provide a great extra layer of warmth, and we would reach for them whether we were hiking, running errands, or just hanging out in cold temperatures.Material:82% nylon, 18% Lycra elastane |Sizes:0-20|Colors:3People / Anna Popp

Best for Hikinglululemon Fast and Free Fleece TightPHOTO: lululemon$148 at Lululemon

Best for Hikinglululemon Fast and Free Fleece Tight

Best for Hiking

lululemon Fast and Free Fleece Tight

PHOTO: lululemon

$148 at Lululemon

Star QualitiesWater-resistant exteriorVery durableRed FlagsSnugger than regular Lululemon pants (may want to size up)

Star QualitiesWater-resistant exteriorVery durable

Water-resistant exterior

Very durable

Red FlagsSnugger than regular Lululemon pants (may want to size up)

Snugger than regular Lululemon pants (may want to size up)

These fleece-lined leggings are some of the bestLululemon productswe’ve found. We hiked roughly 20 miles in these leggings and found them extremely soft, water-resistant, opaque, and well-fitted. They fit slightly more snugly than typicalLululemon leggingsand we would recommend sizing up due to the thicker material.

While warm, these leggings aren’t warm enough to be worn alone in below-freezing temps. However, the leggings did stay dry while it rained, which is a huge plus. They provide a great extra layer of warmth, and we would reach for them whether we were hiking, running errands, or just hanging out in cold temperatures.

Material:82% nylon, 18% Lycra elastane |Sizes:0-20|Colors:3

People / Anna Popp

Best EverydayEddie Bauer Crossover Winter Trail Adventure High-Rise LeggingsPHOTO: Eddie Bauer$99 at AmazonView on Eddiebauer.comStar QualitiesLook more like high-end leggingsPockets and a zippered compartmentHave a soft and cozy interior without being overly heavyFabric is completely opaqueRed FlagsNot warm enough for frigid winterThese Eddie Bauer leggings have earned hundreds of five-star reviews, and we love them, too. Throughout our testing, we were especially impressed with the ultra-soft interior fabric, snag-resistant exterior fabric, smooth-gliding zippered pocket, and high-waisted, budge-proof silhouette. The fabric is completely opaque, so when worn withseamless underwear, they look ultra-sleek.They’re best for chilly days, not freezing ones, although they do provide plenty of warmth. Additionally, we noticed the sizing isn’t entirely accurate, as the leggings run big; so if you order your normal size, you should expect them to be a bit roomy (although they’re notsoroomy that we would suggest sizing down).Material:88% polyester, 12% spandex |Sizes:XS-3X (regular, petite, tall)|Colors:5

Best EverydayEddie Bauer Crossover Winter Trail Adventure High-Rise LeggingsPHOTO: Eddie Bauer$99 at AmazonView on Eddiebauer.com

Best EverydayEddie Bauer Crossover Winter Trail Adventure High-Rise Leggings

Best Everyday

Eddie Bauer Crossover Winter Trail Adventure High-Rise Leggings

PHOTO: Eddie Bauer

$99 at AmazonView on Eddiebauer.com

Star QualitiesLook more like high-end leggingsPockets and a zippered compartmentHave a soft and cozy interior without being overly heavyFabric is completely opaqueRed FlagsNot warm enough for frigid winter

Star QualitiesLook more like high-end leggingsPockets and a zippered compartmentHave a soft and cozy interior without being overly heavyFabric is completely opaque

Look more like high-end leggings

Pockets and a zippered compartment

Have a soft and cozy interior without being overly heavy

Fabric is completely opaque

Red FlagsNot warm enough for frigid winter

Not warm enough for frigid winter

These Eddie Bauer leggings have earned hundreds of five-star reviews, and we love them, too. Throughout our testing, we were especially impressed with the ultra-soft interior fabric, snag-resistant exterior fabric, smooth-gliding zippered pocket, and high-waisted, budge-proof silhouette. The fabric is completely opaque, so when worn withseamless underwear, they look ultra-sleek.

They’re best for chilly days, not freezing ones, although they do provide plenty of warmth. Additionally, we noticed the sizing isn’t entirely accurate, as the leggings run big; so if you order your normal size, you should expect them to be a bit roomy (although they’re notsoroomy that we would suggest sizing down).

Material:88% polyester, 12% spandex |Sizes:XS-3X (regular, petite, tall)|Colors:5

Best for LoungingLands’ End High Rise Fleece Lined Pocket LeggingsPHOTO: Lands' End$60$45 at Amazon$60 at Target$60 at Landsend.comStar QualitiesVery warm and fit wellDidn’t stretch out or sag during wearVery thick, so they protect against both the cold and windRed FlagsSweatshirt-like material isn’t the sleekestRegular-length may be a tad long on shorter framesIf you’d like to be as warm and cozy as possible while lounging about the house and running out for coffee, then these leggings are for you. They are super warm, fit nicely, and proved to be resistant to sagging and stretching.In terms of appearance, the material is very sweatpant-like; we were expecting something a little sleek or glossy, but these are more casual-looking in person. Still, they’re very warm and comfortable and perfect for casual days out and about in the cold and wind.One last thing: If you are on the shorter side, we recommend you order the petite version, which is offered in XS-XL.Material:55% cotton, 41% polyester, 4% spandex |Sizes:XS-XL (regular, petite, tall)|Colors:6People / Lauren Phillips

Best for LoungingLands’ End High Rise Fleece Lined Pocket LeggingsPHOTO: Lands' End$60$45 at Amazon$60 at Target$60 at Landsend.com

Best for LoungingLands’ End High Rise Fleece Lined Pocket Leggings

Best for Lounging

Lands’ End High Rise Fleece Lined Pocket Leggings

PHOTO: Lands' End

$60$45 at Amazon$60 at Target$60 at Landsend.com

Star QualitiesVery warm and fit wellDidn’t stretch out or sag during wearVery thick, so they protect against both the cold and windRed FlagsSweatshirt-like material isn’t the sleekestRegular-length may be a tad long on shorter frames

Star QualitiesVery warm and fit wellDidn’t stretch out or sag during wearVery thick, so they protect against both the cold and wind

Very warm and fit well

Didn’t stretch out or sag during wear

Very thick, so they protect against both the cold and wind

Red FlagsSweatshirt-like material isn’t the sleekestRegular-length may be a tad long on shorter frames

Sweatshirt-like material isn’t the sleekest

Regular-length may be a tad long on shorter frames

If you’d like to be as warm and cozy as possible while lounging about the house and running out for coffee, then these leggings are for you. They are super warm, fit nicely, and proved to be resistant to sagging and stretching.

In terms of appearance, the material is very sweatpant-like; we were expecting something a little sleek or glossy, but these are more casual-looking in person. Still, they’re very warm and comfortable and perfect for casual days out and about in the cold and wind.

One last thing: If you are on the shorter side, we recommend you order the petite version, which is offered in XS-XL.

Material:55% cotton, 41% polyester, 4% spandex |Sizes:XS-XL (regular, petite, tall)|Colors:6

People / Lauren Phillips

Best for Working OutUnder Armour ColdGear Compression LeggingsPHOTO: Amazon$55$36 at Amazon$45 at Zappos$55 at Underarmour.comStar QualitiesLightweight but warmMaintain their shape and don’t fall down during wearRed FlagsWe wish they had pocketsThese are the most breathable and movable pair of fleece-lined leggings we tried. We wore them on long runs and walks as the temperature was changing and found them to be lightweight, stretchy, and thick. They’re essentially your classic everyday athletic legging but with an extra layer of warmth, thanks to the fleece lining. Plus, they are completely opaque. Not only did they pass the squat test, but they also hid any sweat.What we love most about these leggings is just how well they stay up through an entire workout. These did not fall downoncewhile running (we usually have to pull up the waistband or the legs to keep leggings from falling). These leggings were almost flawless; we just wish they had a pocket to store our keys and other small items during workouts.Material:87% polyester, 13% elastane |Sizes:XS-XXL|Colors:8PHOTO: People / Mollie PendexterPHOTO: People / Mollie Pendexter

Best for Working OutUnder Armour ColdGear Compression LeggingsPHOTO: Amazon$55$36 at Amazon$45 at Zappos$55 at Underarmour.com

Best for Working OutUnder Armour ColdGear Compression Leggings

Best for Working Out

Under Armour ColdGear Compression Leggings

$55$36 at Amazon$45 at Zappos$55 at Underarmour.com

Star QualitiesLightweight but warmMaintain their shape and don’t fall down during wearRed FlagsWe wish they had pockets

Star QualitiesLightweight but warmMaintain their shape and don’t fall down during wear

Lightweight but warm

Maintain their shape and don’t fall down during wear

Red FlagsWe wish they had pockets

We wish they had pockets

These are the most breathable and movable pair of fleece-lined leggings we tried. We wore them on long runs and walks as the temperature was changing and found them to be lightweight, stretchy, and thick. They’re essentially your classic everyday athletic legging but with an extra layer of warmth, thanks to the fleece lining. Plus, they are completely opaque. Not only did they pass the squat test, but they also hid any sweat.

What we love most about these leggings is just how well they stay up through an entire workout. These did not fall downoncewhile running (we usually have to pull up the waistband or the legs to keep leggings from falling). These leggings were almost flawless; we just wish they had a pocket to store our keys and other small items during workouts.

Material:87% polyester, 13% elastane |Sizes:XS-XXL|Colors:8

PHOTO: People / Mollie PendexterPHOTO: People / Mollie Pendexter

While you’re adding fleece-lined leggings to your cart, complete the look with some of our other PEOPLE-Tested style winners. Our editors and independent testers put each product through the wringer to bring you the best of the best.

Old Navy Side-Pocket LeggingView on Old NavyHarper Wilde Bliss Bralette$48 at Amazon$45 at Harperwilde.com

Old Navy Side-Pocket LeggingView on Old Navy

Old Navy Side-Pocket Legging

View on Old Navy

Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette$48 at Amazon$45 at Harperwilde.com

Harper Wilde Bliss Bralette

$48 at Amazon$45 at Harperwilde.com

What to Know About Right Fleece-Lined Leggings

Material

Since leggings of all kinds are meant to be stretchy and form-fitting, a Tommy John spokesperson says that the best material make-up for fleece-lined leggings should always include spandex. Most of our top picks, including our best overall pick,90 Degree By Reflex Fleece-Lined Leggings, have spandex. “You also want to look for insulation to keep you warm outdoors without overheating indoors,” they noted.

Activity

Not all fleece-lined leggings are made with the same activities in mind. As such, it’s important to consider what you’ll be wearing your fleece-lined leggings for so that you can determine the best color, weight, and fit. “Black is the most versatile color, great for everyday wear,” says Vivian Lee, director of styling at Dailylook. “If you’re planning on wearing your fleece-lined leggings for layering, look for something sleek and lightweight so you’ll feel warm without adding any extra bulk. For exercising, go for something stretchy and comfortable, with a drawstring waist for a custom fit.” Our top pick for hiking,Lululemon’s Fast and Free High-Rise Fleece Tight, has a water-resistant exterior layer.

We tested 21 of the most popular fleece-lined leggings and rated them on a scale of one to five in six key categories: quality, opacity, fit, performance, durability, and value. To adequately analyze these attributes, we performed stretch tests and squats in each pair of leggings, wore them to determine how well they performed, and even tossed them in the wash based on the manufacturer’s care instructions. Once all the reviews were in, the totals were averaged to determine the top-rated pairs.

Frequently Asked QuestionsFleece-lined leggings are sold in a variety of textiles, but, most often, the fleece itself is made of synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon, says Lee. “That’s because of their sweat-wicking and fast-drying properties,” she explains. “Spandex is also used for its stretchability, while cotton can be added for extra softness and comfort.” Additionally, she points out that some fleece-lined leggings can have a wind- and water-resistant outer layer, which is typically done through a special treatment to ensure water can’t pierce the fabric.Wear fleece-lined leggings anytime you want to be extra warm and cozy. With that in mind, they’re great for winter and engaging in outdoor, cold-weather activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and running. That’s not to say you can’t wear them just out and about, too, though. “I love the casual look and versatility of fleece-lined leggings during the cooler months,” a Tommy John spokesperson shares. For instance, pair it with a warm,stylish bomber jacket.“I love fleece-lined leggings for under ski pants or a snowsuit (those retro one-piece ones are in right now!), or you can wear them alone for winter activities or cozying up on a snowy day,” says stylist Jené Luciani Sena, author ofThe Bra Book. “You can never go wrong with leggings.” When deciding which fleece-lined leggings to buy, Lee says to consider what works for your wardrobe and lifestyle. “You can definitely wear fleece-lined leggings on their own, which is the most common way to wear this type of leggings,” she assures us. “However, if you would like to wear jeans or pants and need some extra warmth, you can totally layer a fleece-lined legging underneath.” For example, wear them under yourfavorite work pantsduring winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fleece-lined leggings are sold in a variety of textiles, but, most often, the fleece itself is made of synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon, says Lee. “That’s because of their sweat-wicking and fast-drying properties,” she explains. “Spandex is also used for its stretchability, while cotton can be added for extra softness and comfort.” Additionally, she points out that some fleece-lined leggings can have a wind- and water-resistant outer layer, which is typically done through a special treatment to ensure water can’t pierce the fabric.

Wear fleece-lined leggings anytime you want to be extra warm and cozy. With that in mind, they’re great for winter and engaging in outdoor, cold-weather activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and running. That’s not to say you can’t wear them just out and about, too, though. “I love the casual look and versatility of fleece-lined leggings during the cooler months,” a Tommy John spokesperson shares. For instance, pair it with a warm,stylish bomber jacket.

“I love fleece-lined leggings for under ski pants or a snowsuit (those retro one-piece ones are in right now!), or you can wear them alone for winter activities or cozying up on a snowy day,” says stylist Jené Luciani Sena, author ofThe Bra Book. “You can never go wrong with leggings.” When deciding which fleece-lined leggings to buy, Lee says to consider what works for your wardrobe and lifestyle. “You can definitely wear fleece-lined leggings on their own, which is the most common way to wear this type of leggings,” she assures us. “However, if you would like to wear jeans or pants and need some extra warmth, you can totally layer a fleece-lined legging underneath.” For example, wear them under yourfavorite work pantsduring winter.

Rebecca Norrisis a full-time writer living in the Washington, D.C. metro area who has worked in beauty editorial for a decade. She joined the Byrdie team as a nail expert in 2019 and contributes to several lifestyle publications. She is a graduate of George Mason University, where she earned a B.A. in Media: Production, Consumption, and Critique, along with a minor in Electronic Journalism. Based on our testers’ feedback, she compared several of the most popular fleece leggings on the market based on factors like price, quality, material, warmth, fit, opacity, durability, and style. For additional insight into buying fleece leggings, Norris spoke to Vivian Lee, director of styling at Dailylook, and Jené Luciani Sena, author of The Bra Book.

Our Expert PanelVivian Leeis the director of styling at Dailylook.Jené Luciani Senais a stylist and author of “The Bra Book.”

Our Expert Panel

Vivian Leeis the director of styling at Dailylook.Jené Luciani Senais a stylist and author of “The Bra Book.”

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com