Warm Tights are a winter wardrobe essential, especially when getting dressed falls into a familiar (if comfy) routine: pants, turtleneck, sweater. Rinse, repeat. This pattern has its charms—it’s warm, it works for most settings, and honestly, who wants to overthink their outfit in January or February? But even for the most sweater-happy among us, it can start to feel a bit stale.
One way to break the monotony? Swap those pants for warm tights, which can be paired with dresses, skirts, or even shorts (yes, if you’re into that winter style). But not just any tights—those who’ve tried to wear regular pantyhose or stockings in the dead of winter know the disappointing bare-legged feel that comes with them. What you need are winter tights: lined with fleece, made of a thick heat-trapping blend, or with a higher denier (denier being the number that indicates the thickness and opacity of the fabric—sheer pantyhose are around 20 denier for reference).
We’ve rounded up the highest-rated warm tights that the internet swears will keep you cozy and insulated through even the coldest days of winter.
VERO MONTE Women’s Opaque Fleece-Lined Tights – Warm Winter Leggings
Women’s Translucent Warm Tights by NORMOV – Winter Essentials
No Nonsense Women’s Opaque Control Top Warm Tights – Comfortable & Stylish
CozyWow Women’s Opaque Footed Pantyhose – Warm and Stylish Tights
Stay Cozy with EVERSWE Opaque Winter Tights for Women
Stay Warm with X-CHENG Fleece-Lined Tights – Sheer Look, Winter Comfort
2-Pack G&Y Fleece-Lined Opaque Tights – Cozy and Durable for Cold Weather
ATHVOTAR Women’s Fleece-Lined Thermal Pantyhose – Sheer & Warm
BALEAF Women’s Fleece-Lined Thermal Leggings – High-Waisted with Pockets
Conceited Fleece-Lined Winter Leggings for Women – High-Waisted Comfort
Stay Warm with Romastory Elastic Thermal Leggings for Women
1. VERO MONTE Women’s Opaque Fleece
These Vero Monte tights have a cult following on Amazon, boasting over 600 glowing reviews. Customers rave about their cozy, sweater-like fleece lining, which is thick enough to keep you warm but sleek enough to flatter your legs or layer comfortably under jeans on chilly days. One reviewer shares, “I bought these for myself, my mother, and my daughter-in-law to wear to an outdoor wedding in Montana. There was snow on the ground, yet our legs stayed cozy and warm! We were amazed by how comfortable these tights are—they feel heavenly when you slip them on. Our ages ranged from 30s to 80s, and they fit all of us perfectly.”
Available in five colors and two versatile sizes, these tights are designed to fit most and deliver a true-to-size experience.
2. Women’s Translucent Warm Tights by NORMOV
Leave it to NORMOV to come up with a fantastic pair of thermal shapewear leggings. The NORMOV Shape Core Plush Tights also come highly recommended and offer medium compression thanks to the tummy-shaping waistband.
The warmth comes from the plush-lined interior and opaque construction, so you’ll feel warm and supported all winter long. Just be sure to double-check sizing—NORMOV uses an alphabetical sizing system, but there’s a helpful chart to determine which letter you are. And if you prefer a knit style, NORMOV also offers ribbed knit tights that provide medium compression.
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3. No Nonsense Women’s Opaque Control Top Warm Tights
NORMOV’s fleece-lined, 70-denier tights are beloved among Amazon reviewers. This is because of their wide size range, comfy high-rise top, sturdy fabric, and ability to keep legs comfortable in the cold. Reviewers like them for wear outside in the winter as well as in overly-air-conditioned spaces that can feel like the Arctic.
“I’m a flight attendant, and these tights are amazing for keeping me warm during those long boring red eyes that I used to freeze on, and need to bring a blanket,” writes a reviewer. “I haven’t gotten any snags/holes in these yet, and I’ve been wearing them for about a month now. I would definitely recommend these to everyone!”
NORMOV Cozy Hose Fleece Tights come in four colors and in women’s sizes petite, tall, and plus size and fit as expected.
No Nonsense also offers fleece-lined tights with similar warmth and durability, making them another great option for winter wear.
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4. CozyWow Women’s Opaque Footed Pantyhose
The name might give you pause, but fear not: CozyWow tights are fantastic. The brand is known for its inclusive sizing and range of styles and colors, making hosiery shopping a bit easier and even fun. The Super Opaque Tights are 120 denier, so they have a thicker feel and are much warmer than typical tights. They’re a great option if you want to stick with traditional tights rather than try wool or fleece-lined options, and they sit at the bra line, so there’s no chance of them rolling down.
These tights (and all of CozyWow’s tights) are an incredible value, too. You can save even more by taking advantage of the mixing and matching discounts, so feel free to grab a few colors—options include burgundy, chocolate, and plum, among others. If you want to try a different style, CozyWow also sells affordable Merino wool tights.
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5. BALEAF Women’s Fleece-Lined Thermal Leggings
Stay warm and stylish this winter with BALEAF’s fleece-lined thermal leggings. Designed for cold-weather comfort, these high-waisted leggings feature a soft, plush interior that provides insulation without adding bulk. The durable fabric ensures flexibility, making them perfect for outdoor activities, lounging, or running errands.
With convenient side pockets, you can securely carry essentials like your phone or keys. The high-rise waistband offers tummy control and a secure fit, so you can move confidently all day. Available in a variety of sizes, these leggings are the ultimate blend of function and fashion for chilly days.
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1. Stay Cozy with EVERSWE Opaque Winter Tights for Women
If you are looking for a pair of fleece-free yet truly opaque black tights to carry you through winter, look no further than the EVERSWE Eclipse tights. Made of a 110-denier nylon blend, these tights provide more insulation and warmth than regular hose, even without a fleece lining. This ensures they remain opaque all over the legs, even in areas where the fabric stretches more. As an added benefit, some reviewers note that the thicker fabric helps prevent runs.
“These are by far the most comfortable and warm tights I have ever purchased,” writes a reviewer. “They’re well worth every penny. I plan to buy more soon!”
EVERSWE Eclipse tights come in one color and women’s sizes small to XL, fitting as expected.
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2. Conceited Fleece-Lined Winter Leggings for Women
Stay warm and stylish during chilly days with Conceited’s fleece-lined leggings. Crafted for ultimate comfort, these leggings feature a plush fleece interior that keeps you insulated without feeling bulky. The high-waisted design offers a secure, flattering fit, while the stretchy fabric ensures unrestricted movement, making them perfect for lounging, outdoor activities, or everyday wear.
Available in a variety of colors and sizes, these leggings are a versatile winter essential. Whether you’re layering under dresses or pairing them with a cozy sweater, Conceited fleece-lined leggings deliver both warmth and style effortlessly.
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3. Stay Warm with Romastory Elastic Thermal Leggings for Women
Stay warm and fashionable with Romastory Women’s Thermal Leggings, designed to keep you comfortable in colder weather. These leggings feature a soft fleece lining that provides exceptional warmth, making them perfect for winter outings or lounging at home. The stretchy elastic fabric ensures a snug yet flexible fit, allowing unrestricted movement throughout your day.
With their sleek design and cozy feel, these leggings are versatile enough to pair with sweaters, tunics, or boots for a chic winter look. Available in various colors, Romastory thermal leggings are a must-have for your cold-weather wardrobe!
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4. Stay Warm with X-CHENG Fleece-Lined Tights
Combine style and warmth with the X-CHENG Fleece-Lined Sheer Tights, perfect for winter fashion. These tights feature a unique design that gives the appearance of sheer pantyhose while offering the cozy insulation of fleece lining. The stretchy, high-waisted fit ensures comfort and support, making them suitable for all-day wear.
Whether you’re dressing up for an event or staying casual, these tights pair beautifully with dresses, skirts, or oversized sweaters. Durable and elegant, X-CHENG tights are an excellent choice for anyone looking to stay stylish and warm in colder weather.
5. G&Y Fleece-Lined Opaque Warm Tights
Stay cozy and stylish with the VERO MONTE Women’s Fleece-Lined Opaque Tights, a must-have for cold weather. These tights feature a plush fleece lining that keeps you warm without adding bulk, making them perfect for layering with skirts, dresses, or oversized sweaters.
Designed with a high-waisted fit, they provide excellent support and a flattering silhouette. The opaque fabric ensures full coverage, while the soft and stretchy material allows for all-day comfort. This 2-pack offers great value, making it easy to stay warm and fashionable throughout the season. Perfect for work, casual outings, or special occasions.
11. ATHVOTAR Women’s Fleece-Lined Thermal Pantyhose
The ATHVOTAR Women’s Fleece-Lined Thermal Pantyhose offer the perfect combination of warmth and style for colder weather. Made with a translucent fabric that maintains a chic, sheer look, these tights are lined with soft fleece to provide added insulation without compromising on comfort or appearance. The high-waisted design ensures a snug fit, while the breathable material prevents overheating, making them ideal for layering under dresses, skirts, or shorts during winter. Whether you’re braving the cold outdoors or lounging in an air-conditioned space, these tights will keep you cozy and stylish all season long.
Final Verdict
Overall, we recommend the EVERSWE Super Opaque Tights, which are an impressive 120 denier to keep the cold air out. These true opaque tights come in a wide range of colors and sizes and are the best option if you want to stick with traditional hosiery rather than trying out wool or sweater tights. For an even more budget-friendly alternative, we also recommend the A New Day 120D Blackout Tights for their complete opaqueness and thickness that will keep legs warm in cold temperatures.
How to Shop for Warm Tights Like a Pro
Material
Tights are typically made from synthetic materials like nylon or polyamide mixed with elastane or spandex for stretch. These materials aren’t known for their warmth, but tights with a higher denier (more on that below) have a tighter, thicker weave that can lock in warmth. Some tights have a fleece lining that’s extra cozy, but they run the risk of feeling too thick and warm, especially if you’re indoors.
Natural materials are a good alternative. “Wool, silk, and fine merino all have natural insulative qualities and provide a comfortable, breathable warming effect,” West says. Wool tights, whether they’re made of cashmere or merino, are super soft and lightweight, providing warmth without extra bulk. They also have a luxurious look to them (and typically, the high price tag to prove it).
Denier
Denier is a unit of measurement that determines fiber density and can be a helpful way to gauge how thick a pair of tights is. Tights with a high denier are thicker and more opaque, while tights with a low denier are more sheer. When shopping for warm tights, a higher denier is better: “Opt for a higher denier over 50, which will be opaque and thicker for optimal warmth,” West says. Our overall best and best budget picks are both 120 denier.
Questions You Might Ask
Are tights machine washable?
Most tights are machine washable, but always check the label before washing. Even if they’re technically machine washable, hand-washing tights will ensure they last longer.
“Hand wash alone in cold water and hang them to dry to get the most mileage out of your tights,” West says. “Or, use a separate laundry bag and run them in the washing machine on the delicate cycle. Always hang-dry them to dry and keep them separate from any zippers or harsh elements that could create a snag.”
How do you prevent tights from ripping?
The best way to prevent tights from ripping is to make sure you’re buying the right size. Tights that are too small will rip much more easily since they’re being overly stretched during wear. When washing your tights, keep them separated from the rest of your clothes, especially ones with zippers or clasps. You can do this by using a delicates bag.
Can tights be warmer than thermals?
The short answer: It depends. Thermals are thicker than most tights, even ones with a higher denier, so they have an advantage. Thermals are also designed with heat retention in mind, while tights are more of a fashion statement first, practical layer second. On the other hand, tights made from a high percentage of wool are exceptionally warm, even if they are lightweight, and could theoretically be used instead of thermals.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Nicole Lund, a writer and editor who was most recently the shopping editorial director at Real Simple and Southern Living. She has over six years of experience researching and testing the best products, including fashion. To write this article, she conducted hours of research on what makes a pair of tights suitable for winter, considering materials and thickness as well as size and color range. She also spoke to Tara West, stylist and founder of Tara West Fashion, for expert advice on shopping for warm tights.