What matters most is whether or not it fits you and is comfortable. That said, there's quite a bit of difference between men's and women's apparel.

A men's chamois is typically narrower and longer. The chamois will extend farther up the front to cover a man's "equipment". Women do not require a pad that extends that high.

Relative to the waist measurement, the hip measurement on a men's garment will be smaller. So, if you are built very straight, without a butt, a man's bottom may work for you just fine. If you are hippy, or have a butt, you'll likely find the hips to be more restrictive if wearing a men's garment.

Finally, inseam measurements on men's bottoms are typically longer. The average men's bottom has a 9" inseam, where women's inseams are quite variable - anything from 3" on the very short side to 10" on the very long side, with about 7" being the average.

Hope this helps.

Susan