Author Archive | Brett

PEARL iZUMi Cycling Shorts

These matching black shorts complete the P.R.O. Octane outfit and feature a low riding 1 ½“ waistband, contrasting side panels of white fabric, and red elastic with silicone grippers in the legs. This garment is accented with red topstitching to match the detail of the jersey. The shorts feature Pearl Izumi’s top of the line 4D chamois with lightweight multi-density and multi-tiered padding for long riding comfort. Even if you’re not a fast rider, this outfit will surely make you feel fast!

Women’s P.R.O. short (0441 Pro Series)- These are quite possibly my all-time favorite pair of shorts. The fabric is a little heavier than the fabric used for the PRO-OCTANE (style 0450) shorts, but disperses heat and dries quickly. There’s even a mesh panel below the waistband in the back to help with temperature regulation. They’re entirely black, which makes them less revealing and more flattering. The seams are flatlock stitched and offer a chafe-free fit.

The waist-band is 1 inch wide and has a slightly lower cut so it doesn’t bend on itself. The inseam measures 8”and the “3D”chamois is thick and plush and designed for 3-7 rides per week. However, it’s not so heavy you feel like you’re wearing a dirty diaper. The leg seams have a fusion-welded hem with a silicone gripper. It’s lighter and less constricting, than gripper elastic from previous years.

PEARL iZUMi Knee, Leg & Arm Warmers

Elite Therma Fleece Knee Warmers(9252) and Leg Warmers(9253)

I don’t know how this is actually possible, but I have a pair of each of these items and though I love the quality of their construction—the weight and length and reflective components, the elastic opening at the top is just too big and the darn things fall down. I have a size small and my thighs measure 20 ½ inches. If your thighs measure the same or smaller get size xs.

These arm warmers are the perfect length and perfect width. The elastic is not too loose or tight and the fleece lining is surprisingly warm. Together with a wool bra, short sleeve jersey, vest, and leg warmers, I’m comfortable riding in 45-50 degree temps.

PEARL iZUMi Full Zip Jersey

Full Zip Jersey (4985 Elite series)

I use this jersey as a jacket and wonder if (Pale Aqua/Jade, Chili Pepper, Pacific Blue/Sea Blue or White) would have been a better choice (than black), for increased visibility.
Pearl Izumi put a lot of thought into this design with details that translate into greater riding comfort. For example, the sleeves are long and cover your hands in cold weather, but have a cut-out so your thumbs can wrap around the brake hoods. The jersey is fully lined, comes with a full-length draft flap, as well as a “zipper garage” to seal in warmth and prevent that metal zipper from rubbing against your throat. Their 3’n2 Pocket “Kangaroo Pouch” doesn’t adequately replace the three pockets I’m used to, especially since the center, hidden pocket isn’t a waterproof safe haven for my iphone. However, for days when those arm warmers just aren’t warm enough this is definitely the best next layer.

PEARL iZUMi Cycling Jerseys

P.R.O. Octane-

One online reviewer dubbed this outfit Shamu (as in whale) a name that has, unfortunately, stuck around our house. Though I have to admit its overall look does resemble that of a killer whale, no other cycling outfit feels as nice or –would you believe “sexy,” –next to my skin. This is, of course, no surprise from Pearl Izumi’s top-of-the line outfit manufactured in Italy. They call this product “insanely anatomical,” claiming the fit conforms to your body. It does. This might not always be a good thing unless you are young and buff, otherwise you might feel like a whale.

The jersey design is surprisingly cool in spite of it’s largely black color. It has two generous side panels of contrasting vented (and antimicrobial), white fabric to help with heat transfer and fight odor. There’s also a vented panel in the mid back.

A bright red collar accents the jersey in addition to a double line of red top stitching that extends out from the top and back of the raglan sleeve design to the to the end of the much shorter capped length sleeves. The collar also has a reflective “zipper garage” that safely stores the zipper so it doesn’t rub against your neck. There are three pockets in the rear, one of which is waterproof, with a zipper and reflective flap, to keep your cell phone safe and dry.

The back of the waist has a 9” panel of the same elastic with silicone grips found in the legs of the matching shorts.Otherwise, no restrictive or binding elastic in the sleeves or waist can be found on this jersey, making it a pleasure to wear on long rides. The use of contrasting fabrics and top stitching create lovely lines which are both slimming and flattering.

I almost didn’t take this strappy number from the Elite series with me on Cycle Oregon. But when temperatures were forecast for the 90’s, I was glad I did. The upper portion of the Elite tank is lined, and also has a built in bra, which conveniently doubles as a storage compartment for ice. Yes, I actually did this. The straps are adjustable. I heard passing women riders comment how nice looking it was. I actually found the tank top difficult to put on correctly and thought the solitary pocket in the rear was oddly shaped and placed—except for perhaps a snack. Ride with friends or put on copious amounts of sunscreen or you’ll end up with a very strange tan/burn.

Some Hanky Panky has forced Me to Ask again

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