Jeans are a significant part of most people’s wardrobe. They come in all different colors and can complete any outfit. Jeans are also great for casual outings, semi-formal meetings, or even a date. But what happens when the weather gets chilly?
The most common methods to stay warm under jeans are:
- Wearing tights
- Wearing thermals
- Wearing compression leggings
- Wearing flannel-lined jeans
- Wearing cashmere socks
Since people from every part of the world love their jeans, it is understandable wanting to wear comfortable denim regardless of the weather. On cold chilly days, the key is to pair it up with another layer, so you don’t freeze.
Wear tights.
Wearing tights under jeans is an excellent way to stay warm while still being stylish. They can also be worn under skinny jeans comfortably. There are tights made of different materials, but silk tights are often suggested as they are soft against the skin.
If your city or town is cold but not freezing, then consider wearing silk tights. However, if temperatures dip below zero, then tights made of thicker materials, such as wool or synthetic fabrics, are best.
Wear compression leggings.
Athletes, especially runners, often wear these leggings under their track pants and shorts. They’re specially made to keep runners warm, even single-digit weather.
Compression leggings, often created using synthetic materials, are designed to trap body heat, so the exterior temperature doesn’t impede you. These have a tight fit and can be worn under the skinniest of jeans. They also provide the advantage of flicking sweat away from the skin.
Wear thermals.
Often called Long Johns, almost everyone in colder climates uses thermal innerwear. Long Johns are named after a 19th-century boxer John L. Sullivan, who wore them in the ring. They are meant to be worn under clothing, so they should be fine to use under your jeans. Thermal underwear is also an option.
Wear flannel-lined jeans.
These classic jeans have a lining of warm materials sewn into the jeans, often in a rustic design. Flannel-lined jeans are a vast improvement on regular jeans in cold weather. Manufacturing companies often use materials such as wool or synthetic fleece, polar fleece, or sherpa lining.
Flannel-lined jeans are okay for moderately cold weather, without too much snow or wind. They are warm, but they are usually not fashionable. These jeans are made for working in and often used in that manner.
Wear warm socks.
No matter how warm you are, cold feet will keep you on edge. Longwool or cashmere socks can be worn and stretched under your jeans (some even reach your knees) for warmth. These socks are soft, cozy, and worth every penny you spend on them. They can also be worn around the house, regardless of if you’re wearing jeans or pajamas.
Are jeans enough to keep you warm?
Jeans are often known for their versatility and are perfect for year-round wear. People who live in tropical destinations or places with moderate temperatures can wear jeans for most of the year, although it might get too warm during the summer months.
But what about those who live in chilly, or even freezing climates? Some people swear that jeans are enough to sustain every weather condition, be it rain or storm. But this is little comfort for people who have to endure blizzards and freezing sub-zero conditions.
If the weather in your area gets mildly cold during winter, then consider buying heavyweight denim jeans. Heavyweight denim jeans will keep you warmer, but they are not waterproof and can only do so much in extreme temperatures. So if the temperature dips below zero, they won’t help much.
Can I add layers on top of my jeans?
The above-listed tights, thermals, and socks are great for staying warm. However, if you’re among the people that find it uncomfortable wearing layers under your jeans, you can add layers atop them. Many pants are meant for the harshest of weather, be it a blizzard or a snowstorm.
Even in moderately cold weather, adding layers atop your jeans might be a better option since these pants are often waterproof, wind-resistant, and highly insulated. Jeans are also weighed down when they get soaked in rain or snow, something you don’t have to worry about with external pants.
Let’s take a look at some of these below:
Softshell Pants
Specially made for outdoor activities like hiking, softshell pants are often created using tightly woven synthetic fabrics (such as nylon, polyester, or spandex). These materials are wind and water-resistant while providing exceptional insulation.
They are also breathable and stretchy so that they can be worn over jeans without worry. Softshell pants also dry quickly. They are generally available in three variants – lightweight, midweight or heavyweight.
Polyester Pants
Many outdoor apparel items are manufactured using polyester as the material is excellent for insulation and often waterproof. People who wander outside in the winter, be they athletes, casual walkers, or workers, often choose polyester clothing.
Baggy pants made of this synthetic material can easily be worn over jeans. These pants also keep the chill from high winds away. They come in a variety of price ranges, depending on the brand, but are easily available on Amazon and other online stores.
Cold-Weather Boots
Another crucial part of your winter outfit is quality cold-weather shoes. This is particularly essential for people that spend a lot of time outdoors in the winter.
There are winter boots that often reach your calf, keeping your feet and the bottom of your jeans dry and warm. A good pair of boots can cost a bit of money, but they’re worth the spending. Boots also complete the classic winter outfit.
Long Coats and High Socks
If you don’t want to layer up your bottoms, the best alternative is to invest in long jackets, high socks, and boots. Not only does a long coat look great with its many styles, designs, and colors, but they provide excellent protection from external elements such as rain, snow, and wind. The same applies to high socks and boots.
A significant advantage of wearing external layers over your jeans is their smooth functionality. Softshell or polyester pants can be pulled over your jeans, worn outside, and taken off once you’re inside again. So if you want to take a walk to your friend’s house or work, you wear these over your jeans and take them off at your destination. This is a great way to protect your outfit.
Conclusion
Wearing jeans in the winter is nothing new, but when temperatures drop, staying warm is more important than making a fashion statement or mild discomfort.
Tights, compression leggings, and flannel-lined jeans are perfect for chilly weather, but you need to do your research before buying them. Buy pants to suit your climate and ones that keep you as comfortable as possible. There’s no need to purchase heavyweight softshell pants if the temperature gets mildly chilly with little to no rain.
In general, apparel made from wool, silk, or synthetic materials makes for the best winter wear. They can be useful layers to add under your jeans. For most places in the world, you can try and bear the cold with just your jeans on or invest in simple tights or compression leggings. Extreme temperatures call for bulkier clothing.
