For all the time we spend shopping for winter staples like sweaters, boots and coats, you’d think we’d give the same attention to the real wardrobe heroes of the season: the base layers. The most important among them? Tights. The right pair of warm winter tights can take an outfit from unwearable to seasonally appropriate in seconds, but finding a pair that’ll block the chill while also looking stylish isn’t easy. Ardith Singh, a fabric expert, knows a thing or two about functional clothing: Now the co-founder and chief design officer at Bandit, she formerly developed the five athleisure-minded in-house brands at Bandier. Even though leggings aren’t tights, they employ the same science when it comes to staying warm, she says.
“There’s so much technology out there that allows your body to trap its own heat versus wearing a thicker layer,” Singh says. “This is done by pulling your own body’s moisture away from the skin and into the fiber, which is also known as wicking. It can be converted into heat, which is retained in tiny air pockets in the fibers of the fabric. Companies are utilizing this type of heat technology to get a classic tights look, with the warmth of a super-thick and cozy layer.”
If warmth is your priority, Singh says to look out for one thing: “the denier of the tights, which refers to how coarse or fine the fibers are,” she says, noting that the higher the denier, the more durable and often more opaque the tights are. Ahead are 15 pairs of winter tights that are equal parts stylish and cozy.
Best overall tights
We tested Sheertex’s rip-resistant claim and confirmed that these tights are not only tough but soft, supportive, comfortable and cute. The durable base layer will last you for years, making the higher price tag totally worth it. Plus, they’re available in a variety of opacities, colors and patterns.
Best opaque tights
These 120-denier tights?are almost as dense as it gets for a warm, cozy wear on even the coldest days. At under $10, we recommend stocking up on a few pairs for the season.
This is a tights bargain if we’ve ever seen one. These tights are beloved by reviewers?not only for its subtle control top but also for its durability. They come in cool colors like Coffee and Red Wine too.
One reviewer calls?these matte tights?“super comfortable and warm,” while others rave about their durability. “Have worn them like crazy, no pulls or holes,” another says.
These?Hanes premium tights?ring in at 100 denier, meaning they’re thick enough to keep you warm in the winter. Reviewers love how high quality the knit material feels too.
Available in 15 shades, including this trendy red hue, these tights are a great option for anyone looking to add a pop of color to their look.
If you’re all about colorful tights, look no further than?these from CozyWow, which come in all the bright colors you can think of, from green to blue to yellow and more.
Best thermal tights
These?thermal, fleece-lined winter tights?were made to withstand frigid temps and look great when paired with a dress and longline coat. We recommend the two-pack, which will save you $8 on each pair right now.
These budget-friendly tights are thin but warm, offering a toasty layer with a cozy look. They have tons of 5-star reviews, with many noting how they are a repeat purchase year after year.
These warm tights are made with a fine merino knit, and unlike typical scratchy wool tights, these are lined with cotton so they feel soft and breathable.
It doesn’t get any warmer than fleece-lined tights, and?these from Target’s in-house line?have 5-star reviews that call them cozy, thick and the perfect thing for cold winter days. They come in black, Brown Heather, Charcoal Heather and this Ivory color we think would be great accompaniment for the balletcore trend.
Best shapewear tights
Amazon’s No. 1 bestseller in women’s tights, these 90-denier tights provide opaque coverage for warmth and sleekness. Reviewers say they feel thick and durable, offering great value for the affordable price point. You can choose from classic black or a duo of wintry hues.
These shaping tights will look just as good with a skirt and boots as they will under a midi dress. The control top gives support in the thighs, tummy and waist without feeling constrictive.
These tights aren’t just “sturdy,” according to reviewers. They also lend a sleek silhouette for any winter outfit. And the Espresso hue couldn’t be more on-trend.
