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See all our posts on Pearl iZUMi here
While many of us participate in running races, Andrew competes in a variety of competitive cycling races in the Pacific Northwest.
Color: Black
Main Design Features: Elite 3D Levitate chamois, lightweight knit fabric, no inseam, reflective elements
Color: Citadel
Main Design Features: GoFresh anti-odor tech, premium italian knit, lightweight, reflective elements
Mid-May and I have had tan lines for a month now?! What a treat to be getting Summer road miles in, months before the season even gets here. Seems like I went from a winter jacket to short sleeve jerseys overnight, and you won’t hear me complaining.
As the temperatures continue to rise, and the group rides continue to ramp up the pace I find myself reaching for the same kit over and over. That kit is Pearl iZUMi’s new Red Bib Short and Red Jersey. They are lightweight, fast, and look great in a paceline, helping me train hard and find my form before the race season fully kicks off.
Red Bib Short
The Red Bib Shorts look and feel terrific. The Italian mesh back panels are very breathable, and the In-R-Cool nylon fabrics do a great job of keeping me cool on hot days, leaving me fresher and more comfortable even at the end of long rides.
The Elite 3D Levitate chamois is a major upgrade from other comparable bib shorts I own. This thing is soft and made of dual-density padding which provides cushioning in all the right places without feeling bulky or like I need to squirm around in my saddle all day to find the right position.
The silicone grippers on the legs help keep these shorts in place on the big efforts, and long climbs without feeling like they are pinching or overly restrictive. And the zero-inseam construction translates into big days without hot spots or chaffing where it matters.
Pearl iZUMi Red Jersey
The companion piece to these bib shorts is the equally capable Red Jersey. The jersey checks off so many of the boxes I look for in race ready gear. Ultra lightweight, breathable, slim fit, and UPF protection are all a must, and this product excels in those areas.
While it’s not as tight and form fitting as my speed suits, it does have enough of an aero feel while maintaining a comfortable fit. So much so that I forgot about the three or four watt penalty. With ample rear pocket space, an easy to open zipper, and a smooth low-profile collar this jersey is right at home helping me tackle my biggest training days.
To say I’m stoked on this new PI/Red bib short and jersey combo, is an understatement. It’s quick while staying simple, looks good without being flashy, and is as comfortable as higher priced elite level gear. It gets back to the basics of what we all want in our cycling gear. And while I’ll save my speed suit for race days, for the other radiant days ahead this combo has things covered.