11 Leg Warmers to Help You Channel Peak Balletcore Vibes
In this week's episode of "Retired Fashion Trends That Have Been Revived by TikTok," we have an '80s-inspired staple: leg warmers. The cosy accessory first gained traction back in the era of whimsical leotards, matching tights, and those unforgettable workout VHS tapes led by the aerobic queen herself, Jane Fonda. While leg warmers have primarily been donned by dancers and ballerinas in an effort to prevent leg cramps, they've since been reimagined to be worn in a variety of ways: under boots, over leggings as a cosy layer for runners and cyclists, and now, according to TikTok, as an alternative way to embrace the internet's latest aesthetic obsession, balletcore.
While the ballet fashion fad is inspired by the effortlessly feminine uniform of the sport, you don't actually have to be a prima ballerina to tap into the trend — as regularly demonstrated by celeb fans of the accessory like Bella Hadid and Jennifer Garner. Whether you're an avid yogi in need of a flexible pair of leg warmers to stretch in, a runner looking to add an extra layer of warmth to your workout ensemble, or just a fashion-lover hoping to breathe new life into TikTok's balletcore trend, we've found the best leg warmers for any athlete or style icon.
From thermal leg warmers to knitted styles and even a pair from Amazon that look like the perfect dupe for a supermodel-loved style, our team of shopping experts has curated the ultimate guide for the best leg warmers to buy now and wear all winter long — with styles starting at just $5. Browse through a few of our favourites ahead!
![Best Overall Leg Warmers For Women: Urban Outfitters Distressed Leg Warmer](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/VMQkvA1uWtXvmj_xwEmRH9LJcVA=/fit-in/792x1187/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2023/01/03/310/n/1922564/b060ca9f21cee665_netimgtZniav.webp)
Best Overall Leg Warmers For Women: Urban Outfitters Distressed Leg Warmer
The styling opportunities with this Urban Outfitters Distressed Leg Warmer ($25) are truly endless. Composed of a rustic brown-coloured, knit material, these leg warmers can easily be worn with sneakers, with chunky loafers, or even on top of leggings to your next workout class or yoga studio visit. If the chocolate colouring isn't your vibe, the accessory is also available to shop in a mauve hue.
![Best Leg Warmers For Yoga: Lululemon Evolution Leg Warmer](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/3qgS_h0G6UVc6SUE9FDYD4aJY5M=/fit-in/792x950/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2023/01/03/310/n/1922564/7d6b9460b4237916_netimgV59hFJ.webp)
Best Leg Warmers For Yoga: Lululemon Evolution Leg Warmer
This formfitting Lululemon Evolution Leg Warmer ($58) is the type of style you'll want to wear to the studio and on repeat for the rest of the week, too. Crafted from a breathable, wool-blend fabric, the piece is specifically designed for yoga and even features an open-toe and open-heel silhouette that promotes an added flexibility.
![Best Thermal Leg Warmers: Uniqlo Heattech Soft Fluffy Leg Warmers](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/3tEoVDcgq7LxgP2s8X_BaLjPLFc=/fit-in/700x700/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2023/01/03/310/n/1922564/479812ba38f53b3a_netimgpcV65I.webp)
Best Thermal Leg Warmers: Uniqlo Heattech Soft Fluffy Leg Warmers
Come winter, we'll gladly wear as many layers as possible to help us keep warm — and thermal leg warmers are a great accessory to incorporate into any ensemble. Not only are these Uniqlo Heattech Soft Fluffy Leg Warmers ($8) highly rated, but they're also composed of a fluffy, polyester fabric that is insulated and helps to keep the feet warm for extended periods of time.
![Best Thigh-High Leg Warmers: Alo Yoga Goddess Leg Warmers](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/uU3jjesH0_xNEcV69zAN25726BU=/fit-in/792x1188/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2023/01/03/310/n/1922564/9b0f8d16ce74ec9f_netimgprsBgm.webp)
Best Thigh-High Leg Warmers: Alo Yoga Goddess Leg Warmers
If you're looking for something that provides a bit more coverage on the leg, look no further than these Alo Yoga Goddess Leg Warmers ($48). Thanks to the style's four-way stretch fabric design, these thigh-high leg warmers are literally engineered to hug the body and provide a snug, supportive fit whether you're in the studio, on an outdoor run, or just lounging around at home.
![Best Leg Warmers For Cycling: REI Pearl iZUMI Elite Thermal Leg Warmers](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/vYrgqNyiSzPL0KPaX-kPpEeG_do=/fit-in/792x714/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2023/01/04/822/n/1922564/2c6be9ce34202d31_netimgBteYiN.png)
Best Leg Warmers For Cycling: REI Pearl iZUMI Elite Thermal Leg Warmers
When shopping for the best leg warmers for cyclists, it's important to find a style that rides high enough on the leg to provide ample coverage and also one that's tight enough so it won't slide down the leg when performing high-intensity activities. These REI Pearl iZUMI Elite Thermal Leg Warmers ($60) come highly recommended and even feature wide elastic bindings with silicone grippers that hug the leg in all the right ways.
![Best Ballet Leg Warmers: Free People Ribbed Leg Warmers](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/-1nIOkW1SgqV_mGAc1x_wACsvNk=/fit-in/640x960/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2023/01/03/310/n/1922564/bed5eaa7c0369c99_netimgrrwacj.webp)
Best Ballet Leg Warmers: Free People Ribbed Leg Warmers
These Free People Ribbed Leg Warmers ($38) are so darling. Even if you're not a prima ballerina, you can still get extended use out of this accessory — simply wear it on top of a pair of comfortable flats, over a low-platform heel, or even with a classic walking shoe to elevate any outfit with a more effortless touch.
![Best Leg Warmers For Winter: Lunya Lofty Wool Cable Leg Warmer](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/5jBwQC35UIFB889FHcpyXrtWjhk=/fit-in/792x792/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2023/01/03/310/n/1922564/1f98869e2c9ec862_netimgrHSB2z.webp)
Best Leg Warmers For Winter: Lunya Lofty Wool Cable Leg Warmer
This knee-high Lunya Lofty Wool Cable Leg Warmer ($148) is so cosy and plush, it has us wishing winter would never end. The accessory offers a fun play on the classic design of a cable-knit sweater. Plus, with its thick, wool composition, it's one of the best warm leg warmers to snuggle up in at home or while on a low-key walk.
![Best Leg Warmers From Amazon: V28 Long Leg Warmer](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/S4xYjtPmTeb54d__GuraOM0QdiA=/fit-in/679x1133/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2023/01/03/310/n/1922564/f02714ec6a0d65e8_netimgrEYJx1.jpg)
Best Leg Warmers From Amazon: V28 Long Leg Warmer
As of late, the Y2K queen Bella Hadid has managed to take her wonderfully nostalgic style up another notch — or rather, back another decade — with her religious wearing of leg warmers. The supermodel has donned a variety of iterations of the accessory over the years, though one particular Instagram post showcased a crisp white pair of the star's that really felt like they could go with anything. This V28 Long Leg Warmer ($14, originally $20) feels like a perfect dupe for the stylish set.
![Most Stylish Leg Warmers: Nasty Gal Fluffy Leg Warmers](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/ajjl8E49gtGGHEYrgyd9tP92WlM=/fit-in/792x1188/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2023/01/03/310/n/1922564/9064279f7eef6e2c_netimgPnWZj8.webp)
Most Stylish Leg Warmers: Nasty Gal Fluffy Leg Warmers
These Nasty Gal Fluffy Leg Warmers ($5, originally $34) definitely aren't your typical leg warmers, but they do carry a certain kind of eccentric flair that would make them a perfect addition to any festival outfit or playful evening look. You also can't beat that super-affordable price!
![Best Leg Warmers For Hiking: Mio Marino Wool Blend Knee-High Leg Warmers](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/HlqWa_PBlth7ALEv2fCxoOSYIP8=/fit-in/792x1214/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2023/01/03/310/n/1922564/51b7db729d74a391_netimgv2ejRC.webp)
Best Leg Warmers For Hiking: Mio Marino Wool Blend Knee-High Leg Warmers
Whether you're embarking on a high-intensity hike, hitting the trails for a run, or gearing up to hit the ski slopes, these Mio Marino Wool Blend Knee-High Leg Warmers ($30) are sure to help keep you feeling warm and comfortable through it all. The accessory is crafted from a stretchy wool-blend fabric that's equal parts durable and breathable — the perfect combo!
![Best Leg Warmers For Dancers: Lululemon Find Your Balance Studio Leg Warmer](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/AltHu-PFETcu75wscDRkhJ4RUSc=/fit-in/792x950/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2023/01/04/822/n/1922564/7ab181c1d3198b92_netimg5KQwH7.webp)
Best Leg Warmers For Dancers: Lululemon Find Your Balance Studio Leg Warmer
We're obsessed with the look (and feel!) of this Lululemon Find Your Balance Studio Leg Warmer ($58). The thigh-high leg warmer is perfect for dancers or avid yogis who want to keep their legs protected and free from chafing while they're working out. The Lululemon accessory is also available to shop in black and graphite grey, though we're partial to the opal style.