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Keep your legs protected from the elements.

Dressing for winter can be tricky, especially when it comes to picking the right pants during freezing temps and heavy snowfall. Wet clothes and cold skin are both show stoppers when it comes to winter weather, so that's why it's important to keep a few waterproof pants in your dresser that can protect you from the elements.

Whether you need something to stay dry on your commute or you're looking for an extra warm pair of pants to throw on after the gym, there's bound to be something on our list for you. Traditional pants made with heavy organic materials like cotton are not ideal for winter. Fabrics like this absorb moisture and act as poor insulators—leaving you wet, cold and miserable on your morning commute.

Like much of the other gear focused on the colder months, winter pants are often designed with water and windproof materials that shield your bare skin from sub-zero temperatures and elements. They wick away—rather than absorb—moisture. Another benefit to winter pants is their insulation. Aimed at keeping your body heat from dissipating, many of the pants we've featured in this list have either a fleece or down lining. These are both ideal ways to stay warm in even the coldest conditions.

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The perfect bottom-half to wear to an après get together, these pants from Mountain Hardwear feature strategically placed stretch fleece, so you'll feel free to move and mingle. They also have two zippered hand pockets—leaving your wallet and phone right where you left them.

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For those who enjoy spending time outside during the winter months, look no further than Rab's Sawtooth Pants. Durable enough for ski touring and lightweight enough for backpacking excursions, theres nothing these pants can't do. You can also expect protection from UV rays with their UPF 30 exterior.

Read more: Best Winter Jackets for Men

Another option that's casual enough for the workday—but rugged enough for the trail—these softshell pants from FREE SOLDIER are perfect for weekend warriors. Featuring thick fleece lining and a water-repellent exterior, you'll be able to conquer whatever the day throws at you.

Coming highly-rated from Amazon, these pants are an affordable option that can get the job done for you this winter. Featuring insides lined with durable fleece, they're ideal for an early morning snow shovel session, and their reinforced water- and wind-proof knees provide added protection where it matters. 

Read more: Best Thermal Underwear

Made with a smart blend of recycled materials, these hiking pants from Adidas respect the nature you'll wear them in. They're also ideal options to wear around town with their stylish classic rise fit.

Mammut is one of the oldest and most well-respected mountaineering companies in the game, and their Courmayeur pants are an embodiment of their technical achievements. Featuring harness-compatible pockets for all the climbers out there—as well as an adjustable waist that grows and shrinks with your underlayers—there's never been a more mountain ready pair of pants.

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The AR in these pants' name stands for "All-Around", and that's the type of protection you can expect. With a wind-resistant and durable water repellent exterior, these pants are perfect for a snow day in the office or a weekend hike with friends. 

Essentially a puffer jacket for your bottom half, these pants from Mountain Hardwear provide unparalleled protection from cold temperatures. Weighing in at only 10 ounces, they're also extremely light and packable, so you won't think twice about throwing them in your ski bag every weekend.

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Specifically formulated with exercise in mind, these pants from TSLA come highly-rated from workout enthusiasts on Amazon. Complete with a windproof exterior and fleece lined interior, they will certainly come in handy for indoor and outdoor activities alike. They're also at an extremely reasonable price point, when compared to competitors.

Read More: Best Workout Clothes for Men

Whether you live in a rainy part of the world or you're just looking to get a jump on early spring showers, these waterproof options from Adidas are an ideal choice for you if you want to stay dry. However, these pants aren't just focused on keeping you dry. They also feature waterproof side zippers and pockets, so whatever you happen to be carrying will also dodge the elements.

A modern update to traditional hiking pants, the Eddie Bauer Guide Pros are punctuated with a streamlined athletic fit that's office-friendly enough for the work week. However, if you get caught in a snow squall on your way home, don't worry. They also contain a water-resistant finish that'll keep you warm and dry.

Searching for a traditional, yet stylish look for an upcoming winter date night? These fleece-lined jeans from L.L.Bean are perfect for you. They're lined with the brand's softest flannel, so you can look cool while staying warm.

For those who like to hit the trail right after work, these pants from snowboard brand Salomon can play both parts. Their sleek design and fit makes them casual enough for your morning meetings—while still providing enough technical capability to get you from point a to point b in the wild.

Think windbreaker, but for your legs. These pants from Patagonia are an ideal option for early morning runs and late night walks from the gym to your car. You can expect a sweatpants-type fit with their drawcord waistband and stretchy design.

Read More: Best Winter Coats for Men

Casual enough to wear to the office, and warm enough to wear for a weekend hike. You can also expect a wind- and water-resistant shell to keep the elements off you—as well as added insulation from the knees up, so the most important parts are as warm as possible.