The Castelli Aero 4 short fits better, has superior build quality, is similarly priced, and not made in China. That doesn't make this short a terrible choice, it is still a top level product, and it out-performs cheaper alternatives. The biggest complaint I have about it is the chamois: it tends to pinch me in areas I'd rather not be pinched. I think it bunches up, due to being a little too large and thick. I also have Pearl AmFib tights that do the same thing. It could be I'm just not the right shape for this design, and others wouldn't have this problem, who knows. Overall, it is a pretty good product, but I have to admit, these shorts convinced me not to buy anything from Pearl in the future. Castelli all the way!
Based on reviews and past experience with Pearl Izumi, I expected a better fit and quality, especially at the going price. Riding everyday, and spending some time on the ski slops, I quess my frame and size (5'9" and 167 lbs.) had something to do with the fit. Once you get them on, they really do feel supportive and comfortable on the bike, The mediums I bought felt as though a person with a larger waist size (32 inch) could probably fit the bill just as well. They feel like a second skin, which is alll well and good, but the chamois is just way to big and thick for my liking. The chamois feels more like a gel pad, rather than sponge or foam, or combination. Either way, once you get oin the bike, they do provide you with all day support and comfort. Because of the deep discount offered me at purchase, they are probably worth the price, not so much as the advertised retail price.
I've been seriously cycling for four decades and love pearl izumi brand, but these pro shorts are a few notches below previous pro shorts I own. I was disappointed with the feel of the material and padding.
These are my first sets of bike shorts with a pad or chamois in the butt area. Of course it's not like you're going to be sitting on a cloud with these, but they definitely feel like your second skin and make riding for a few hours manageable. I tried some of the interval shorts as well (a step below these) and these are better hands down. The fabric itself is better and the feel of when you put it on.
BTW I'm 190/180 lbs and 5'10 and these fit good. I also fell on my butt and slide on concrete and my cheek got scraped but no damage on the pants. These are really meant to last.
These shorts are a step above the Attack Shorts by Pearl Izumi. Maybe 2 or 3 steps above. A very snug and supportive fit. My usual rides are 60-70 plus miles, 3x or more a week. These shorts hold up and do not get mushy over the ride or after numerous washings. (Just so you know, I either hand wash or use Delicate Cycle and hang dry my cycling clothing). These are extremely comfortable shorts. Many other products from other manufacturers do not fit me. I am a former baseball player, short legged, and muscular. I am not built like a cyclist. It's tough to find clothing that fits. I suggest trying on clothing before purchasing. Pearl Izumi is the only manufacturer whose clothing product I purchase.
I have been riding in Pearl Izumi shorts for years. They no longer make my favorites, the Elite Inrcool with the orange padding. Too bad, because those were the best. Thought I would try these. The are okay. The padding is good, but the lycra is much thinner and they are a very tight fit. My biggest surprise was the lack of any type of cuff on these shorts. Guess I should have read the description closer. I can see these unraveling from the bottom up in a few years.
Great product and excellent service, Bike Tires Direct is an excellent company to order bicycle parts and accessories, and the gold member points add up quickly to give you an additional discount
I have completed 5 long distance cross country cycle trips and butt pain was always a major issue. I just completed a 850 mile ride using these shorts with no butt issues. I was reluctant to spend the money but I have a whole drawer full of shorts that dont do the job. I combined these shorts with assos chamois cream and no issues. The material is very different and so is the waist band (or lack of it). I like these a lot!
I bicycle 8,000 miles a year. Making my shorts work extremely hard! Especially since I weigh 220 pounds. Pearl Izumi stays true to their product warranty. Due to their unraveling of seams, Pearl Izumi has replaced 4 pairs of their Pro Shorts over the years. These shorts had thousands of rider miles in them.
among the different shorts that I have tried (Castelli, Pearl Izumi and Seqoi), these happen to work best for me; how well they fit, how well they stay in place while riding, and how comfortable as a result. I rated below 5 stars for value only due to their list price - when there's a good sale price for them, they are 5 stars for value as well
I have been riding Pearl Izumi for many years and have always like the products. I want to see what a top of the short was like, so, I purchased the PRO short. I shorts ripped on the first ride right along the seam. The material seems lighter weight than most shorts. In the back is cut awfully low. I kind of felt like I was the plumber out there.
I use these shorts for daily 60 km commute. Great fit great feel. Just watch for sizing, I had to downsize!
I had been XL in PI till I bought these shorts, now I am L. I have not lost any weight, 63 and 205 lb.
These shorts are the most comfortable, light wearing shorts i've ever owned! And, they provided sturdy comfort throughout my long rides. They also stayed cool in 98F weather. Another great product from Pearl Izumi!
