I never tried on pants that had an elasticized waist...the saleswoman at Bloomingdales suggested them (her favorites too) & I was surprised at how well they fit. Plus they are extremely comfortable, love these pants, have three pair I wear them so much. The zipper does get snagged though on each pair- must be some design flaw. They may run a bit small, I am between an 8 and 10- I order the 10. Also the length is good for me, 5'8" and they hit my ankle bone.