The other sweatpants I own are quite similar: drawstring tie at the waist, no opening for the fly, two plain pockets in the front and a zippered pocket over the right buttock, and elastic gathering at the ankles that often rides up as I move around.These Zoulee fleece-lined pants have the same kind of drawstring. Otherwise there are several differences. There's no elastic at the ankles. I LOVE the zipper fly, so I don't have to pull them down to use the restroom. The two front pockets are each secured with a zipper, and the rear pocket just has a button closure. I find these pants warm, cozy, and extremely comfortable. I haven't worn them much but they seem sturdy and well made. All in all this was a great purchase for me.