So guess what? A new pair of cycle shorts can make a huge difference. It's especially true when the manufacturer has improved the product. The Chamois and the construction of the shorts are both improved the the pair I bought several years ago.
This is a solid, non-articulating chamois. Bulky feel, no comfort for long rides. At the price they are fine for a daily commute. These are not your best choice for anything over a 10 mile commute. The shell squeaks on my seat as well. These used to be my choice for my weekday workout ride (~20 mile) not any more. Has Pearl abandoned the 'value' segment of recreational rider wear.
I'll not longer trust a short were the chamois isn't shown.
I bought these (2 pair) to replace some aging Pearl Izumi (not sure which model) shorts from many years ago that had now lost the elasticity in the waist. I wasn't expecting much at this price. But they have proved to be comfortable and even hold onto my leg quite well. I'm super lean, so that was somewhat surprising. The butt pad felt kind of weird at first-like I had made an accident in my pants like when I was a kid. But when you're on the bike, these are noticeably more comfortable than previous versions of Pearl Izumi shorts (for me). Truly excellent price as well for something that works this well. Wish they were still made in the USA instead of China. But that's how the world is these days.
I've seen a lot of reviews lately on these shorts and how people aren't liking the chamois in the newer pairs. Personally, I LOVE the uncontoured chamois. There are no less or more padded areas which for me gives an extremely comfortable, consistent level of comfort in the whole area (sit bones, perineum, etc). These are more comfortable than my contoured Specialized shorts which are $20 more in price and i can only make it about 20 miles without those bothering me. Give them a go. You may have the same result!
I generally wear PI Pro or Elite bibs on the road, needed something for Spin class during winter months. Very happy with this purchase, nice material, fit well, good length, comfortable. The chamois is slightly bigger/thicker than what I am used to but feels fine on the bike. Good quality and definitely an upgrade from other lower end shorts that I had been using previously. Very satisfied.
I use these in warmer weather by themselves and under tights in cool weather. As with most Pearl Izumi gear they are well made and seem like they will last a long time. I am a 32 waist and these fit me just right. My only minor complaint is that the padding is a bit thicker than I like.
Don't like the pad. Have several older pairs of PI biking shorts, but ordered these and after trying once sent back for a credit. Pad seems like one continuous piece and not very form fitting. Recommend including the pad pics with shorts.
Of several different brands of bicycle shorts I have purchased, the Pearl Izumi Men's Quest are by far nicest and most comfortable shorts I have found in the lower to mid price range.
I have purchased bike pants at my local bike shop for over 30 years and usually pay at least twice what I paid for 2 pairs from REI recently and same quality as I wear them everyday on my 30-40 mile ride.