Last year I discovered something that changed my winter wardrobe forever. Fleece-lined leggings.

You see, I’d been on the hunt for the perfect pair of winter leggings for ages. Ones that not only felt cozy, but also blocked the cold in a serious way. As a Vermonter, mom of two and owner of a large dog that has the audacity to still want to be walked even in sub-zero temps, I’ve come to realize these are a legit wardrobe staple. That said, while I was willing to throw significant coin at the right pair, I am delighted to report that the holy grail I found is less than fifty bucks and best of all, available again this year. (Even better, they’re currently on sale for 35% off!)

The High-Waisted UltraCoze Performance Leggings from Old Navy.

Why are they the best winter leggings?

I’ve tried a half dozen others, and none are better than these–especially for the cost. (This pair from L.L. Bean comes close in performance, but costs more than double.)

Made from what feels like an almost scuba suit-esque fabric, these fleece-lined leggings are a little bulkier than your standard Lululemons. Regardless, they still breathe well and have significant stretch. They’re lined throughout with cozy brushed fleece that definitely cuts the wind and kept me warm even in 25-degree temps. If you’re more athletically-inclined than I, you’ll appreciate the generously-sized zip-pocket on the thigh which easily accommodates my giant iPhone 11 Pro Max with an inch on top to spare. (I mean it is also helpful for toting my phone from the kitchen to the living room while also transporting an armload of snacks. #priorites) The waist is blessedly high but elasticized so you feel tucked in without being squeezed to death.

And because it’s Old Navy we’re talking about, they come in a fantastic range of sizes (XS-4X) and regular, tall and petite lengths.

I lived in them all last winter and have to say, they still look more or less the same. (One reviewer did note hers pilled a bit in the inner thigh. This is not my experience, so I’m still firmly in the five-star camp.) Luckily, this year they’re available in five great new colors (plus black, of course) with tops to match.

The only downside? I wore them while snuggled on the couch under a blanket recently and had to kick the blanket off because I was sweating. Tough life, huh?

Shop my favorite fleece-lined leggings from Old Navy below.

(And hurry, because we don’t know how long the sale will last!)