With the temperature dropping, you don’t necessarily have to say goodbye to tights and leggings. Instead, you can consider upgrading your wardrobe with fleece-lined leggings to keep you cozy and warm throughout winter.
What Are Fleece-Lined Leggings?
Fleece-lined Leggings are leggings that feature an extra insulating layer that adds warmth to your lower body. While they look like your regular workout leggings on the outside, these pairs are designed with a soft fleece lining in the interior to provide insulation.
That said, there is a popular rumor that fleece-lined leggings tend to add bulk to your body. Contrary to this belief, high-quality fleece-lined leggings are designed to provide warmth without adding any helf.
Most fleece-lined leggings resemble regular activewear, except for a thin layer of warm, soft fleece. This means that you can layer them under dresses or skirts for officewear, or as a base layer beneath your shorts for an outdoor or hiking outfit.
Things to Consider When Buying the Best Fleece-Lined Leggings
Whether you’re headed to work or hitting the gym or mountains, having the right fleece-lined leggings will not only keep you warm but also comfortable, cute, and flexible. Here are the main things to consider when getting yourself a pair or two of fleece-lined leggings.
Your Desired Features
Besides keeping you cozy, the best fleece-lined leggings should feature most of your favorite features. For instance, leggings with pockets are always superior to those without pockets – nothing beats built-in carriage for your cash, keys, and phone.
Others designs feature a loop that extends mid-foot for extra warmth and length. These add more coverage while keeping them in place when you are walking.
Focus on the Material Used
Here, you can look out for the same features you would when shopping for regular leggings. For instance, you can opt for a stretchy spandex material with moisture-wicking capabilities to keep you dry in case the fleece material causes you to sweat.
Similarly, consider going for waterproof materials like polyester and spandex if you will be wearing leggings in wet winter conditions.
Buy According to Your Intended Use
While you may need to try on several pairs to identify the ones that feel right for your intended use, there are several pointers to keep in mind.
- Thicker fleece-lined leggings are better for running errands, traveling, and outdoor sports in the cold. Such leggings will keep you warm since you will not move around much during these events.
- Alternatively, lighter and flexible legging pairs will suffice as base layers or activewear during workouts.
Whatever your intended use is, always remember to go for waterproof pairs if you’ll be exposed to wet conditions.
Best Fleece-Lined Leggings for Women 2022
Here are our 5 top picks of the best fleece-lined leggings to upgrade your wardrobe with.
Best for Hiking: Duofold Women’s Double-Layer Thermal Leggings
Price: Affordable
Special features: Water-resistant, Moisture-wicking properties, Odor-resistant anti-microbial properties
Material: Polyester, Spandex
The Duofold Women’s Double-Layer Thermal Leggings are your go-to fleece-lined pair if you do not allow the weather to disrupt your love for nature. Thanks to its Spandex and Polyester material, you can rest assured of its water-resistant properties in case of drizzles during your hike.
Similarly, its C Vapor technology absorbs moisture from the skin and facilitates fast drying for comfort. Even with its moisture-wicking properties, the material is primarily anti-microbial which greatly helps with odor resistance. This way, you don’t have to worry about wearing it for several days during a hike.
Besides offering unmatched insulation, these heavy-weight leggings feature flatlock seams that guarantee enough support without limiting your movements or causing irritation and chafing. This flexibility comes in handy when navigating mountainous terrain, especially with the help of a hidden drawstring for a snug fit that won’t fall.
Pros and Cons
- It features a hidden drawstring for a snug fit
- Has water and odor-resistant properties
- Are extremely warm
- They are stretchy and don’t limit movement
- It only comes in black
Best for Layering: Under Armour Women’s ColdGear Compression Leggings
Price: Affordable
Special features: Chafe-free seams, Fast-drying exterior, Moisture-wicking brushed material
Material: Polyester, Elastane.
Don’t let their thin outlook fool you. These fleece-lined leggings by Under Armour offer a great base for all your layering needs thanks to their ultra-tight second-skin fitting.
You will also love the wicking properties of the ultra-warm brushed interior that is also fast-drying so you do not have to walk around in dump leggings. Similarly, the Dual-layer ColdGear construction offers a smooth and fast-drying exterior so your comfort is never compromised.
Lastly, the leggings boast an encased elastic waist that offers a smoother and more streamlined silhouette, especially when layering them with other outfits. That’s not all. Their high-rise waistband and long length guarantee maximum coverage in the cold.
Pros and Cons
- They have a tight compression that makes them ideal for layering
- Their chafe-free seams guarantee durability
- They come in a comfortable and tight fit
- Does not feature pockets
Best for Cycling: CHRLEISURE Women’s Winter Warm Fleece Lined Leggings
Price: Affordable
Special features: Feet extension, 4-way stretch, Breathable and moisture-wicking properties
Material: Polyester, Spandex
Like other leggings in this list, you can count on the fleece lining in the CHRLEISURE Women’s fleece-lined leggings to keep you warm in the cold winter weather. Besides, the exterior material is soft to the touch, almost comparable to the smooth fleece inside.
As such, these fleece-lined leggings are perfect for cycling, hiking, skiing, yoga, ice skating, and running. This is thanks to the moisture-wicking fabric that is breathable and absorbs sweat swiftly to keep you dry and warm.
Unlike other cheap options, these fleece-lined leggings boast high-quality material, elevated with top-notch sewing to keep everything covered and decent. When it comes to functionality, they have a four-way stretch that guarantees freedom during movement or exercise. The high-rise waist is also good for tummy control and support.
This high-rise design also comes in handy for contouring your curves for a more streamlined silhouette.
Pros and Cons
- They have the perfect fit that contours your curves
- Have a comfortable fleece-lining
- They have a feet extension
- They thin out with time
Best for Maternity: Enerful Women’s Maternity Workout Leggings
Price: Affordable Affordable
Special features: Moisture-wicking, Lightweight, Storage pockets, Elastic high waistband
Material: Polyester, Spandex.
What better feeling during pregnancy than a buttery soft fleece-lined legging that is breathable and offers freedom of movement? The Enerful Women’s Maternity Workout Leggings are also designed to offer gentle compression which is ideal during pregnancy due to water retention.
The high elastic waistband is designed to offer a soft and secure fit without pressing onto your bump. The panel has enough space to grow with your baby bump while offering support around your belly and back.
You don’t have to worry about styling because these fleece-lined maternity leggings feature unique seam lines which contour your body and curves giving you a better look. Lastly, the side pockets on these maternity eggings avail the much-needed space for holding your keys and phone when your hands are occupied.
Pros and Cons
- Their high-quality material guarantee durability
- Features two storage pockets
- Are comfortable and warm
- Might not hold as the baby bump gets bigger
Best for Lounging: Reflex 90 Degree High Waist Fleece Lined Leggings
Price: Affordable
Special features: Large color variety, Storage pockets, Hidden waist compartment
Material: Polyester, Spandex.
With the pocket option of these brushed leggings, bulky backpacks or purses are a thing of the past. The open pockets allow effortless access to your items, while the hidden waist compartments ensure that your belongings stay in place. Luckily, the pockets are large enough to hold your smartphone, car keys, or wallet so you can focus on other things when you are not lounging.
Thanks to their four-way stretch, these leggings are as comfortable as they are elastic. This makes them ideal for lounging and exercising. Besides your personal use, these fleece-lined leggings make the perfect Christmas gift, especially because they come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros and Cons
- They are soft and comfortable
- Come with a 30-day money-back guarantee
- Feature two pockets and a hidden waist compartment
- The sizing may be slightly off
Final Wrap Up
Whether you are lounging, enjoying your maternity or postpartum period, or are just outdoors enjoying nature during winter, fleece-lined leggings are a great way to stay warm while still looking chic. Luckily, these pairs can be dressed up or down for a cozy but functional look.
Winter or not, the pairs highlighted herein are worthy wardrobe additions that are affordable, high-quality, versatile, and durable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are fleece-lined leggings?
A: Unlike your typical leggings, fleece-lined pairs feature soft fleece interiors that offer extra insulation and warmth during cold weather. Luckily, most brands are affordable making them a must-have in your winter capsule wardrobe.
Q: Are fleece-lined leggings designed for wearing as a base layer or alone?
A: You can do both, but it all comes down to personal preference. When purchasing for layering purposes, always go for thinner pairs with unmatched mobility. Or choose cozier and thicker pairs if you plan on wearing them alone.
Q: How can I know if a pair of fleece-lined leggings is see-through when buying online?
A: Since you never be 100% sure when buying online, it’s advisable to buy leggings in your exact size. If a pair is too tight, it will tug and stretch as you move, which increases its chances of being see-through.
Similarly, always go for options that are designed for physical activity as they are always thicker, none see-through, and more durable than fashion pairs.
Q: Do fleece-lined leggings keep you warm?
A: Yes! This is primarily what differentiates them from regular leggings. Thanks to the fleece lining, these leggings can offer you an extra layer of insulation by trapping heat. Keep in mind, however, that the extent of how warm they are comes down to quality and design.
