Topo Designs  StayWarm Trail Leggings - Women's

OMG these leggings! The fit is perfect and the fabric is so dreamy. These are so warm and cozy in the best way. Perfect for early morning dog walks. Can't wait to test these out in cooler temps!

Winter Leggings Compared Tested by: 5'4" | 105 lbs | 24-26" waist | 35" hips (Curvy build) Size Tested: XS in all brands I recently went on a winter legging hunt to find the perfect pair for cold-weather trails and everyday wear. If you have a smaller waist but curvier hips, you know the struggle of finding technical gear that actually fits. Here is how these three popular options compared: 1. Royal Robbins Backcountry Pro Winter Legging Best For: Maximum comfort and all-day "dry cold" wear. The Fit: These were the winner for pure comfort. They have excellent stretch that glides over my hips without a fight and fits the waist completely with zero gapping. The Feel: Extremely soft and cozy. However, the outer face is a jersey-knit (not slick Lycra), so it’s likely not water-resistant and may pick up more debris/pet hair than the others. Warmth: High. Very warm for non-windy conditions. 2. REI Co-op Swiftland Thermal Run Tights Best For: High-intensity activity (running/fast hiking) in damp weather. The Fit: Runs very small. These were a genuine struggle to pull over my 35" hips. Once on, they are very secure and high-compression, but I’d recommend sizing up if you are between sizes or have a wider hip-to-waist ratio. The Feel: This is a true technical "slick" material that offers semi-water repellency. Warmth: The least warm of the three. They are brushed inside but designed more for movement than standing around in the cold. 3. Topo Designs StayWarm Trail Leggings Best For: Windy, freezing conditions where warmth is the #1 priority. The Fit: These hit at a 7/8 length on my 5'4" frame, so they are slightly cropped. They are quite tight through the legs, but I did notice a tiny gap at the waist—a common issue if you have a dramatic hip-to-waist drop. The Feel: These are lined and feel very substantial. They offer the best wind protection of the group. Warmth: Highest. In dry conditions, the Royal Robbins are close, but the Topo lining gives these the edge for true winter weather. The Final Verdict: Go with Royal Robbins if you want the best fit and "wear all day" comfort. Go with REI if you are trail running in the rain and don't mind a very tight squeeze to get them on. Go with Topo Designs if you need serious warmth for windy trails and prefer a slightly shorter inseam.