Assos

I've tried, and generally been happy with, many different brands premium tier chamois over the years - Pearl Izumi, Rapha, Giordana, etc.

But this is by far the most comfortable chamois I e ever worn. The unique separation of the chamois from the compressive material also ensures that it stays in place better, and that the bike seat never 'grabs' the bib material when adjusting or dismounting. The materials, cut, pocket design are different than I'm accustomed to, but I'm adjusting to those. The chamois alone is worth any minor other features that may not be perfect.

I have a bunch of these. If you're tired of zipper ripple (it sounds bad and it is bad) and jerseys that ruck up (even worse), then the GTS is the jersey for you. The lack of full zip means the lower third of the jersey (the black part) is like a fancy cummerbund, which absolutely stays put. The fit is close, as in Equipe level close, but with that solid base provided by the immovable lower third, the zipper is managed up and down easily with one hand. In short, giving up that lower third of a zipper solves all the things that irritate the bejeezus out of me about jerseys. And the colors are good, too, usually a weak point with Assos. Highly recommended.

I have been using this cap, on cool to cold weather days, for 8 years. It says Rain Cap, and it works great for that. Combined with a neck gator pulled up high, this cap gives plenty of warmth by blocking wind and rain. I have a 7 1/2+ head size and this cap stretches to fit, and if needed larger than that. I have been using the P1 for over a year now and the fabric is more generous and insulating than the previous two generations. This cap is a must have for me.

Assos has a reputation for high quality and charging for it. These bib shorts fit that reputation. The way I justify the price is the fact that their products (particularly their shorts) last 7-10 years with plenty of use. I have found these to be very comfortable for any length ride, from 1-6 hours.

I am 6'2" and 170lbs and prefer a size XL. The reason I prefer XL over L is that I like the extra length of the straps. I have not found XL to be looser around the legs or waist; it's just a tad bit longer, which ensures the straps are not too tight on the shoulders.