for riding around town yesterday at about 7 F, i wore cotton flannel lined khakis.
If it's windy, i'll add a set of windpants -not waterproof pants - on top.
For longer rides on cold, windy days i'll wear a tech layer like wool tights or Powerstretch 100 under windpants, and a technical wicking short or bike short underneath that if i plan on riding for more than a couple of hours.
If I had windproof tights i'd mix those into the layering system, but have never bought a set of PI Amfibs or similar.
Softshell pants like Marmots winter pants make good winter commuting pants.
I've also been experimenting with Nike insulated golf pants ($20) that are amazingly comfortable for riding, xc skiing, etc, and quite warm.
For a 10 mile commute I'd be riding in softshell pants, or the nike pants on real windy days.
Last edited by Bekologist; 01-25-13 at 06:27 AM.