Commuting - I know it is an old question...

I have read the older posts but I am still looking. I need a cool weather (40-60 degree) pant for Oregon (light rain). I know tights would work well. However I am trying to avoid the tight look. Any suggestions??
I had thought there might be a combination base layer and shell but I was afraid that might be to warm. Or something like http://www.bicycleclothing.com/Patrol-Wind-Pants-Unisex.html. Help..... If you have something you like please let me know.

This (http://www.championusa.com/Champion/Products/Men-Champion/Men_ShopByCategory-Champion/Men_Pants-Champion/CP2059.aspx) is what I use. These are cheap at Target. I where shorts underneath. The zippered leg allows the pants to be taken off over shoes. It keeps me warm and dries quickly if it gets wet.

How about shorts? I've heard a lot of people say they ride in shorts all year round. I gave it a try this monring (about 50 here in Beaverton) and it was quite comfortable. Much cooler, though, and I'll probably pull on the tights anyway 'cause I'm just not that macho.

I went to Columbia Sportswear employee store and picked up some Mountain Hardware fleece tights. the fleece is really thin, but it's been great so far. I also got some Titanium goretex pants to wear over them - but so far, that combination is too hot. does keep you dry though.
what's wrong with the tights look?

what's wrong with the tights look?

A couple or three times a week I ride just for fun. Tights would be great then. But most of my rides are some form of commuting. I live sort of car light. It would just be nicer to blend in when I get to where I am going.

So far this year, I've had good luck with Performance illumiNITE Commuter Rain Pant (http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=24405&subcategory_ID=1130). They come in sizes up to XXL (about like 46-48" US pants), repel water and breathe well, and are more visible in the dark than normal pants. They are a decent bargain at $69, and seem pretty tough so far as well.

I have been using gore bike wear profi pants (http://www.gorebikewear.com/remote/Satellite/MenPants?new_activity=OffRoad) . I wear pajama bottoms underneath when it gets cold. Different people need different protection though. I wore 3/4 pants down to the teens/twenties last year and was fine.

I wear this:
http://showerspass.com/cart/product_info.php?cPath=21_29&products_id=41&osCsid=78047f733f5952a04fee86d63cf5e616

Generously cut (pretty baggy actually), with two sets of velcro straps to keep the bottom of the pantlegs out of the drivetrain. Well designed knee and pocket vents. Waterproof, but leaves my legs moist with sweat after long rides. Great for cold weather.

So far this year, I've had good luck with Performance illumiNITE Commuter Rain Pant (http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=24405&subcategory_ID=1130). They come in sizes up to XXL (about like 46-48" US pants), repel water and breathe well, and are more visible in the dark than normal pants. They are a decent bargain at $69, and seem pretty tough so far as well.



Do the illumiNITE pants get to hot on long rides?

I just saw the Showers Pass Fall 08/Spring 09 pdf catalog. Their coming out with some nice looking stuff! The link to the pdf is at the bottom of this page http://www.showerspass.com/index.php