These have been my favorite pants for a long while - the cut is very comfortable and the button is easier than side hooks - but I did notice that with this latest pair, the fabric finish is less "slick," so lint sticks to them and I have to use the lint roller a lot.  I'd say they're softer but it's annoying.  I still love the fit and length so much. You do have to follow directions on washing in cold water and inside out, or else they can shrink and lose their color over time. That's just how black pants are!