Hi nsandz! I'm in New England, too. I wear knickers all fall and winter long, with tights or legwarmers over only if it's below freezing. I like them better than shorts, but that's just my personal preference.

I've been wearing Terry knickers for years, but I just decided to try a different brand this season. I got my first pair of the highly recommended Shebeest pedal pushers this week (thank you TE for the speedy service!). I wore them for a 35 mile ride the day before yesterday and loved them even more than my old knickers. They're a little sleeker and the chamois is a little thinner.

I recommend you try some on and see what feels comfortable. I know the fabric of both the Terry and Shebeest will be warm enough for our weather.