I decided to try these velour sweatpants after purchasing the fleece version a few weeks ago.  Since the large size was so enormously long and wide in the legs, I ordered a medium in this velour version.  It is still about 6 inches too long for me (5' 4 1/2"), and didn't seem to shrink as I had hoped.  But the overall fit is much slimmer.  Even so, at a size 8, I think a small would fit me even better.  I'm always concerned about buying pants online, as you never know if they are going to be true to size or shrink.  But this version is quite easy in its cut and easy to wear as well.
Update: I decided to buy a small pair and they fit perfectly...low rise, snug but not tight, much more attractive.  They are still a bit too long, but with boots on it doesn't matter.