15 Best Hiking Leggings For Cold Or Warm Weather – 2023 Reviews

We have tried hiking several times in the past. We are doing it more frequently now. We wore hiking pants on our initial trails, but we found out later that hiking leggings feel better. Walking through dense forest with thick shrubs wearing stretchy hiking leggings is now an absolute relief.

We pair these leggings with a short-sleeve T-shirt when it is warm and a wicking long-sleeve top when the weather is colder.

We tested several hiking leggings on different occasions and weather. We came up with 15 of the best hiking leggings that you can consider next time you hit the trail.

15 Best Hiking Leggings- Reviews 2023

1. 90 Degree by Reflex High-Waist Power Flex Tummy Control Leggings

Are you hiking in cold weather? You might need to wear the 90 Degree High-Waist Power Leggings by Reflex. These trekking tights are probably the best hiking leggings for cold weather because of their thick fabric

Key Features

• The leggings have 25 color options (all solid colors).
• It keeps your tummy supported when ascending hills.

Pros

• Do not wrinkle even when you squat, bend or jump.
• The thick fabric can withstand every day wear & tear.
• It moves with your body and does not chafe & dig in.

Cons

• The fabric is not fleece-lined.
• The leggings are not convenient to wear under a dress.

Specifications

• Size: X-S, S, M, L, X-L, XX-L, 3X-L
• Material: 87% Nylon, 13% Spandex/ 88% Nylon, 12% Spandex
• Color: The solid colors come in 25 options like Black, Dark Navy, Mocha, Pearled Rose, etc.
• Weight: 7.84 ounces (222grams)

Bottom line: Hikers who go to cold places will benefit the most when wearing the Reflex 90-Degree leggings. Aside from supporting your tummy, the tights keep your body warm and protected.

2. Under Armour Women ColdGear Compression Leggings

Another best hiking legging for cold weather is the Under Armour ColdGear. Everybody wants (including us) the warm and dry feeling of ColdGear, especially in chilling weather. The colors come in dark hues (like black, purple & green variations), clearly seen in snowy surroundings.

Key Features

• ColdGear is compression leggings with elastic closure.
• The fabric layer is 2-ply for added warmth on cold days.

Pros

• Hikers chilling in cold weather will keep their bodies feeling pleasant.
• These leggings keep you feeling tighter on the legs than the hips.
• The encased elastic waistband provides a contoured silhouette.

Cons

• The cost might not suit your budget, but the quality is unquestionable.
• The fabric is too thick as a base layer.

Specifications

• Size: X-S, S, M, L, X-L, XX-L
• Material: 87% polyester, 13% spandex
• Color: Black, Green, Purple,
• Weight: 8.47 ounces (240 grams)

Bottom line: Women who prepare hiking-in-style without sacrificing body comfort will find the UA ColdGear more satisfying to wear. The leggings provide utmost support in a harsh environment.

3. ODODOS Women High-Waist Dual Pockets Workout Capris Leggings, Sports Running Yoga Gym Athletic Leggings

Most women who love hiking in dry environs will find the Ododos Capris Leggings the ultimate wear! The tights are also one of the best hiking leggings with pockets (it has two). The workout Capri comes in two inseam lengths: 19” and 28”, so you have more choices.

Key Features

• It has a drawstring closure for more secure wear.
• The legging has UV protection against harsh sunlight.

Pros

• The 4-way stretch will keep moving in sync with your body.
• The fabric is breathable & moisture wicking.

Cons

• It may feel too hot in environs with more than 29C ambient temperature

Specifications

• Size: X-S, S, M, L, X-L, XX-L, 3X-L
• Material: 87% polyester, 13% spandex
• Color: Variants of 26 solid with dark & light color options.
• Weight: 8.47 ounces (240 grams)

Bottom line: If there are leggings for cold weather, there is also one for hot environs. These leggings are affordable; you may buy both, so wear the appropriate one depending on the weather.

4. BALEAF Women Fleece Lined Water Resistant Legging High-Waist Thermal Winter Hiking Running Pants

Is there a legging that is best to wear during winter? The BALEAF Thermal Winter Hiking Legging is an ideal choice! The Fleece-lined and high-waist tights will provide you the needed warmth and gentle touch to the body no matter how cold outside.

Key Features

• It has water-resistant properties ideal for snowy hiking.
• The soft fleece lining adds warmth during cold weather.

Pros

• The high-waist of BALEF leggings creates a contoured silhouette.
• Its stretch is enough for intense movement during hiking.
• The back pocket has a zipper to secure the mobile phone.

Cons

• The thick fabric may not be comfortable during hot weather.

Specifications

• Size: X-S, S, M, L, X-L, XX-L, 3X-L
• Material: 87% polyester, 13% spandex
• Color: It comes in 19 solid dark colors.
• Weight: 9.66 ounces (274 grams)

Bottom line: Whether you run, walk, or crawl during a hike, the cold surface will not keep you freezing. The leggings will insulate your skin from numbing conditions.

5. Spalding Women Ankle Legging

Discriminating women of various builds will find Spalding Women Ankle Legging one of the best options. These skin-tight clothing have small to 3X sizes. Even plus-size women who love hiking can choose the appropriate one for them.

Key Features

• The fabric is majority cotton.
• The stretchy chaps are non-see-through by any color.

Pros

• The ankle-length leggings have a wide waistband for a snug fit without constriction.
• It is mid-rise for more comfy mobility when hiking.
• The cotton fabric suits wearing in cold weather all day.

Cons

• The cotton concentration varies by color.

Specifications

• Size: S, M, L, X-L, 1X, 2X, 3X
• Material: 92% cotton, 8% spandex (Black & Navy); 57% cotton, 37% polyester, 6% spandex (Gray)
• Color: Ultra Navy, Black, Charcoal Heather, Heather Gray
• Weight: 5.44 ounces (274 grams)

Bottom line: A family with different builds that hikes frequently may consider this brand for uniformity. The leggings are ideal for hiking in chilling places. The softness of cotton will keep you more comfortable in steep climbing during a hike.

6. ZERDOCEAN Women Plus-Size Stretchy Soft Lightweight Full-Length Leggings

One of the more affordable pairs of leggings for hiking is the ZERDOCEAN Full-Length Leggings. The ample stretch benefits plus-size women of any age. The lightweight but stretchy materials provide enough support for the legs during a day-long hike.

Key Features

• It has modal fabric that does stick to the skin.
• The soft leggings have a silky-like touch.

Pros

• The fabric is lightweight that is more comfortable for oversized women.
• It is opaque so you can wear the leggings alone.
• You can pick the appropriate inseam length (27”-29”).

Cons

• No sizes are available for average build ladies.
• Consult the size chart for a better fit.

Specifications

• Size: 1X to 5X
• Material: Stretchy modal fabric
• Color: Available in 12 solid colors, some with prints.
• Weight: 6.4 ounces (181 grams)

Bottom line: The ZERDOCEAN leggings are the ideal bottom wear when hiking in any weather. Its full-length inseam protects your lower body from harsh surroundings. The tights are better with sneakers.

7. CRZ YOGA Women High-Waist Lightweight Athletic Joggers

Good leggings mean good hiking: You may consider buying the CRZ YOGA Athletic Joggers for more comfortable outdoor adventures. The travel workout joggers have designs that are also better for hiking. The classic pants have mesh pockets to secure essentials, like a smartphone.

Key Features

• The fit is slightly loose but stretchy.
• It comes with a 27.5” inseam length.

Pros

• One of the best hiking leggings that are high-waist with a drawstring closure.
• It has a 2-way stretch enhancing mobility in tight spaces.
• The slightly loose fit provides skin breathability during an intense workout.

Cons

• One of the heaviest fabrics on our lists, but the cost is affordable.

Specifications

• Size: XX-S, X-S, S, M, L, X-L
• Material: 92% polyamide, 8% spandex
• Color: Dark to light colors like Black, Dark Russet, Nubei Blue, etc.
• Weight: 8.92 ounces (252 grams)

Bottom line: The ripstop pants act like a legging but with a slightly loose-fitting. The CRZ casual pants are ideal for hiking in grassy areas with wild or thorny vegetation. You can also wear pants in yoga sessions.

8. Danskin Women Capri Legging

The Danskin is synonymous with quality yet comes with affordable prices than premium legging brands. You will admire the qualities of the Danskin Women Capri Legging that features the brand’s old version. The crotch has a cotton gusset to minimize sweating on your privates.

Key Features

• It has 55% cotton for added cushion.
• The moisture-wicking property keeps you dry all day.

Pros

• The Capri legging is ideal for hikers trekking in humid weather.
• It is a majority cotton fabric that dries sweat quickly.
• You can wear the Capri on any occasion, not just for hiking.

Cons

• It comes only in limited colors.

Specifications

• Size: X-S, S, M, L, XL, 1X, 2X, 3X
• Material: 55% cotton, 37% polyester, 8% spandex
• Color: Black, Heather Gray, Navy
• Weight: 5.44 ounces (273 grams)

Bottom line: This Danskin legging is the classic version in a wide range of sizes. The gusseted crotch protects and supports your privates during intense workouts or hiking.

9. Ubestyle UPF 50+ High-Waist Women Leggings Swimming Tights Sun Protective

One of the best hiking leggings for hot weather is the Ubestyle UPF 50+ High-Waist Women Leggings. The pair is also ideal for swimming on the beach if you want more sun protection from the waist down.

Key Features

• The leggings protect your skin from UV rays.
• The skin-friendly fabric dries quickly and is highly breathable.

Pros

• You can also wear the Ubestyle leggings for snorkeling, yoga, and paddleboarding.
• The flat-lock stitches minimize skin irritation from chafing.
• The high-waist feature enhances curvy contour.

Cons

• No available size for XXX-L women.
• It requires wearing underwear.

Specifications

• Size: S, M, L, X-L, XX-L
• Material: 82% nylon, 18% spandex
• Color: Assortment of dark and bright colors.
• Weight: 4.16 ounces (118 grams)

Bottom line: If you want versatile leggings not just for hiking, the Sun Protective Ubestyle UPF swimming tights are better. The leggings are ideal for active and sports-minded women who are always under the sun.

10. Roamans Women Plus-Size Ankle-Length Essential Stretch Legging Activewear Workout Yoga Pants

The Roamans Ankle-length Legging is activewear in several sizes. They are also available in more than 20 colors with different prints (floral or fruity prints). You can pick the print to contrast or simulate the landscape of the place you want to hike or do yoga.

Key Features

• You may opt for the color adapting to the scenery of your hiking place.
• It has Tall Plus sizing for tall women.

Pros

• One of the cheapest pairs: you can buy several of these for different occasions.
• It also comes in Petite sizes with 26” inseam.
• Wearing Roamans will enhance femininity while being active.

Cons

• One of the heaviest materials.

Specifications

• Size: Comes in 34 sizes from Small Plus to 6X
• Material: Cotton & spandex
• Color: 23 color options, including Navy Layered Geo, Lavender Graphic Floral, etc.
• Weight: 14.4 ounces (408 grams)

Bottom line: Aside from the availability of sizes for petite and tall women, plus-size ladies also have available sizes. For tall women, the inseam comes at 31”. Roamans have one of the low prices yet with versatility in design.

11. Eddie Bauer Women Trail Tight Leggings – High Rise

If you want the high-rise version of Eddie Bauer Leggings, the trail tights might be the right for you! The leggings are for hiking and other outdoor activities for women of all sizes.

Key Features

• The fabric hugs your figure no matter what.
• It features FreeShade sun protection of UPF 50+.

Pros

• The fabric blocks 98% of the sun’s rays on the skin.
• Wearing the EB leggings minimized the risk of sun exposure.
• It has two drop-in cargo pockets & a secure zip vertical pocket.

Cons

• The inseam length ranges from 25” to 31” only.

Specifications

• Size: Regular, Petite, Tall, Plus-size
• Material: 88% polyester, 12% spandex
• Color: 9 colors available such as Black, Heather Gray, etc.
• Weight: 9.59 ounces (272 grams)

Bottom line: Women of all sizes have a choice in picking the appropriate gear when hiking in sunny places. The Eddie Bauer Trail Tight leggings will protect you from harmful UV radiation.

12. Fjallraven – Ovik Key Ring

If you are hiking in wet environments, better prepare the Fjallraven Leggings. The legging is one of the best hiking tights for women trekking. It is also one of the best choices for petite ladies overwhelmed by the joy of hiking.

Key Features

• The fabric is a combination of four materials.
• It performs well in high-intensity hiking.

Pros

• The fabric wicks away moisture and keeps your body breathing.
• It has thick reinforcement on the knees and butt to protect them in rough terrain.

Cons

• The price range (minimum to high) varies in color and size.

Specifications

• Size: XX-S, X-S, S, M, L, X-L, XX-L
• Material: Elastane, Nylon, Polyamide, Polyester
• Color: Black, Dark Gray, Glacier Blue, Navy, Dark Garnet, etc.
• Weight: 9.28 ounces (263 grams)

Bottom line: Active women who want a more intense workout will benefit from wearing the Fjallraven leggings. When you are seeking high-performing stretch fabric, this is it!

13. Tuff Athletics Women Active Yoga Tight Floral Printed High Rise Leggings

If you want a higher price range legging, the Tuff Athletics Women Active Yoga Leggings might suit your budget. The quality varies with the design and color of Tuff Athletic tights. Although it comes in limited color variation, the Tuff seems more economical for frequent hikers.

Key Features

• The leggings utilized flat fell seams as an anti-chafing technique.
• It is 100% opaque (non-see-through).

Pros

• The Tuff fabric feels like a Lululemon Luon & Pilayo Lycra blend.
• It is durable with a 4-way stretch for maximum mobility.

Cons

• It has no gusset.

Specifications

• Size: X-S, S, M, L, X-L, XX-L
• Material: 51% polyester, 36% nylon, 13% Lycra
• Color: Black, Nocturnal Sky
• Weight: 8.47 ounces (240 grams)

Bottom line: Tuff Athletic leggings were once for activewear. Nowadays, Tuff promotes their products as lifestyle garments for everyday use.

14. ICEBREAKER Bodyfit 175 Everyday Legging

We can consider the ICEBREAKER Bodyfit Legging as one of the best hiking leggings for cold weather. It is because of the Merino wool. It stretches naturally (spring-like), although the fabric has no elastane.

Key Features

• The fabric is stretchable up to 30% of its length without breaking.
• It bounces back to its original shape when stretched up to 20%.

Pros

• Ideal as everyday cool weather tights.
• It will not accumulate odor even when worn day and night.

Cons

• No available size for XX-L and beyond.

Specifications

• Size: X-S, S, M, L, X-L
• Material: 100% Merino wool
• Color: Black, Loden Green, Midnight Navy
• Weight: 6 ounces (175 grams)

Bottom line: The ICEBREAKER Bodyfit legging is ideal for everyday tights in cold weather, not just for hiking. The wool fabric, although thick, is lightweight at just 175 grams.

15. Columbia Women Back Beauty High-rise Warm Winter Pant

Everybody loves the warm but soft texture of Columbia Winter Pant. Although it has a high price range: it is quick relief from the harsh effects of winter for those who love to hike. Unlike cheap hiking leggings, the Columbia has cargo pockets for your valuables.

Key Features

• It features Omni-Shield protection that repels moisture.
• The Omni-Shade keeps you protected from harmful UV rays.

Pros

• It has a pull-on closure for easy wear and takes off.
• The fabric has a UPF 50 rating against UVA & UVB rays.
• If you want long-serving hiking pants, this is it!

Cons

• The pair is one of the priciest.

Specifications

• Size: XS, S, M, L, XL, XX-L
• Material: 90% polyester, 10% elastane
• Color: Black, Nocturnal
• Weight: 9.88 ounces (280 grams)

Bottom line: The stain and water-resistant properties of the high-rise pants make them more resilient to any environment. You can wear these stretchy pants any time for hiking and other outdoor adventures.

Best Hiking Leggings – Buying Guide

Here are some of the best things to consider when buying hiking leggings: 

1. The price

Some hiking leggings are comparable to traditional leggings (like postpartum leggings ) cost-wise.

Modern hiking leggings come inexpensive with lots of versatility! One of the most affordable hiking leggings is the CRZ YOGA Women High-Waist Athletic Joggers.

2. Comfort & Fit

Look for the correct fit to achieve the most comfortable feel. Here are some factors to consider in choosing the proper fit with comfortability.

Rise

Many hiking leggings give you a more flattering look. This will prevent you from slipping when walking for hours with a backpack.

Waistband

A comfortable waistband will make your adventure more exciting and successful. Most hikers prefer a wide waistband to avoid bunching and slipping for perfect comfort all day long.

Flat-Sewn Seams

Look for this kind of stitching on hiking leggings. Flat-sewn seams offer more robust than overlocked stitching. This seam last longer, even in intense conditions like climbing rocks or cliffs.

The Tuff Athletics Women leggings have one of the best flat-sewn seams among other brands.

3. The breathability

Cotton leggings have the best breathability on tights. But if you are involved in more intense hiking frequently, better choose a combination of materials. The best choices are the Danskin Women Capri Legging and Fjallraven leggings.

4. Pockets

Doing hiking entails a lot of walking. Your leggings should have pockets (or cargo pockets) to keep your essentials, like a mobile phone, handy. One of the best examples of hiking leggings with pockets is the BALEAF Women Legging.

5. Style

Trekking tights may be Capris or full-length. If you are hiking in a dry and more humid place, wear a Capri. It is also perfect when trekking along the road. A full-length legging is ideal in a cold place with rough terrain.

6. The material

Most hiking leggings are a blend of more than one fabric. Here are some of the most popular materials in modern leggings.

Elastane

The elastane material is known as Spandex in the United States and Lycra in other territories. These materials provide stretchability in leggings combined with other materials to form breathable tights.

Polyester

Polyester is a more breathability material with a moisture-wicking property. It retains heat but with low stretchability when used as-is. But when combined with elastane, it makes a very useful and more functional legging.

Nylon

Like polyester, nylon is a synthetic material that has high breathability. It is more elastic and durable than cotton and polyester, especially when mixed with Spandex or Lycra.

Polyamide

Polyamide is similar to nylon, but this material is weather-proof. It can take heavy beatings, like rubbing and scraping, without wear. One of the best examples of a polyamide-combined hiking legging is the Fjallraven tights.

Merino Wool

Merino wool wears as a base layer in winter clothing. The high-heat retention of merino wool makes it one of the best materials for winter hiking leggings, like ICEBREAKER Bodyfit.

7. The durability

Here are some of the best features of hiking leggings that guarantee durability.

Reinforced Panels

Some tights provide additional fabric support on the butt and knees to protect them in scrambles or heavy climbing. The Fjallraven leggings have these features.

Water & Weather-Resistance

Nylon is one of the best materials in hiking leggings that provide water-resistant property. Polyester is second, while cotton is neither water- nor weather-resistant.

8. Moisture-Wicking

The moisture-wicking property of a fabric is its ability to let sweat escapes from the inside to the outside. Nylon, polyamide, and polyester have this property.

9. When considering mobility, check for:

Gusseted Crotch

The crotch gusset is a diamond-shaped fabric (mostly cotton) that covers women’s privates. It also connects the inseam along with the genitals. If your leggings have a gusseted crotch, you are less likely to have the appearance of a camel toe.

Articulated knees

Hiking leggings with articulated knees have pre-form fabrics conforming to the shape of your legs. The feature protects your knees and legs when crawling or climbing rough surfaces.

10. Sun Protection

Some hiking leggings like the Columbia Women Winter Pant & Eddie Bauer Tights have sun protection features. These leggings have UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating that tells how much your skin protects from UV light. The standard UPF rating range for hiking leggings is 30-50+.

11. Reflective Tapes

These tapes are high-visibility patches on leggings to keep you more visible on a highway, especially at night.

12. The sustainability

If sustainability is one of your concerns, pick a legging with a recyclable material like the DWR (durable water repellent) treated fabric. However, this process requires periodic maintenance to keep the garment sustainable.

FAQs

1. Is it OK to hike in leggings?

Yes, it is. Leggings are form-fitting garments with breathable materials to let your skin breathe during a hike or workout.

2. Are our workout leggings good for hiking?

Yes, they are! Lots of sports-minded people got gym clothes on the trail.

3. Can I wear Lululemon hiking leggings?

Probably not! Most Lululemon leggings are too thin and too buttery soft for hiking.

4. Are Lululemon tights good for hiking?

One Lululemon hiking leggings that you could probably wear in light hiking is the Lululemon Align Pant. However, the high price might not make this legging more economical if you hike frequently.

5. Are sports leggings good for hiking?

Yes, sports leggings are a great hiking outfit. These tights are also better for other outdoor activities.

Conclusion

One of the cheapest cotton leggings is the Roamans Women Plus-Size Ankle-Length Legging. It is one of the best hiking leggings on dry trails where you intend to trek for a short time.

But if you want hiking leggings with utmost protection in any environment (cold or warm surroundings), pick the Fjallraven leggings. The fabric has four materials that make it more durable, breathable, and long-lasting. We also admire the numerous pockets on these leggings.