Kertrek

I got some rain pants that aren't specific for cycling, but they're still popular for bike commuters. I couldn't find cycling rain pants in the right size. I work outside as well, so I can use the pants during work, so they're a good investment. What's the difference between cycling rain pants and general rain pants?

thin_concrete

I can't imagine much. Maybe a pad for comfort?

Machka 

Articulated knees.


And yes, I have both cycling rain pants and general rain pants.

ltxi

Cache and money?

chaadster

Really, you can't imagine any design elements which might make cycling in them more convenient, comfortable, safe, and expeditious?
That's really unfortunate, and it makes me sad that you should be so crass.

What I like about cycling rain pants over hiking rain pants are not only the articulated knees (which keep the lower pant leg from riding up), but also the tapered legs, trimmer, more aero cut to prevent flapping and catching in the chain, safety reflective elements, seamless crotch for comfort and durability, and the breathable panels on the back of the pant for comfort cooling.

ltxi

Crass??? Coulda done much better/worse t'wer I going for crass.

JohnDThompson 

And perhaps breathable fabric (i.e. GoreTex), reflective stripes, and ankle cinches and/or zippers.

StanSeven

These two posts say it all. A couple points to stress - baggy flapping pants will just make it much harder to pedal because of the added resistance and you are burning lots of energy with your legs. Breathable material allows heat to get out and keeps you dry.

indyfabz

See post #7 in this thread and maybe reconsider some things about your life.

Looigi

also, higher in the back to accommodate the leaning forward seated position and knees coming up while pedaling.

Machka 

Having cycled in both ordinary rain pants and cycling-specific rain pants, I can tell you that I would not want to go back to cycling in ordinary rain pants.

For me, the articulated knees was the main selling point. I had rain pants that were somewhat breathable and tapered at the ankles, etc., but they didn't have the articulated knees ... and I have knee issues where my knees become quite painful if I wear anything too tight over them. Ordinary rain pants always became too tight over the knees for me, gave me knee pain, and made my legs feel like I was trying to cycle through sand.

Then, in October of 2012, I bought my first pair of real cycling-specific rain pants ... and what a difference!! Well worth the money.

Hermes1

A lot depends on the "non-cycling" rain pants, as some are designed for multi-sport use which will serve a cyclist well as well as for other sports or general wear. Then there are rain pants of a more general nature better suited for casual about town wear.

ltxi

That's kinda where I was comin' from.

chaadster

Rain pants for "casual wear about town"?!?!

Keep on reachin'...