great pants
These pants live up to The North Face reputation. The fit is excellent and they work well. I recently used them in the near horizontal rain from hurricaine Irene, and they kept me dry. I have a similar pair of snow pants from The North Face and these are similar. The side zippers allow easy application over heavy rain boots.

Best Waterproof Pants Ever!
These North Face Full Side Zip Venture Pants are the best waterproof pants I have ever bought, over a lifetime of buying outdoor gear of all brands. These pants provide top-notch protection from downpours, while also being very light, extremely breathable, wonderfully comfortable, and supremely durable. I would recommend these pants to anyone (male or female) who loves the outdoors in any and all conditions. They also provide great protection from the wind, as well.

Initial Review
Bought these pants for winter biking in cold/wet conditions over another layer. They fit great over tights. Although I have not used them in very cold or wet conditions so far, I tried them on a moderate day with no under layer. They were warmer than expected alone. For pants with no typical liner they slid across the skin very well. The worst thing I could say about them is only that the waist adjustment relies on velcro and doesn't allow large changes without folding. I look forward to using them more and they may make it easier to ride later into the winter.

Everything You Need
Very lightweight and does the trick. Tested them out in a brutal rainstorm and not a drop of water gets in. Will see how they hold up over time but so far so good!

Great Rain Pants
They fit well and are perfect to carry in my backpack for day hikes. The full zipper makes them easy to get on and off without removing my boots.