Best Bike Shorts for 500-Mi Katy Trail Tour?

[dizzydiesel]

We're planning to do a round-trip ride on the Katy Trail in MO, over ~10 days to allow time for sightseeing and touristy stuff.

So an average of 50 miles/day, each day. Some days, more like 30 -- some days, more like 70.

I have pelvic nerve issues on one side due to long-ago car accident so my perpetual challenge is minimizing pain when I ride. I'm currently using a Serfas RX saddle which is about the best for me I've found so far.

Shorts-wise, I'm currently riding in Sugoi Evolutions. Don't love the leg gripper, but they're not bad.

I just tried the Desoto women's 400-mile, since DH swears by their men's 400-mile, but it's not the same short at all in the women's version. Very disappointed, not as good as the Sugois and the sizing and fit were crazy.

Would love your suggestions for best bike shorts for this kind of trip!

[Jolt]

Well, it's really an individual thing as far as what shorts you find most comfortable…personally, I do not like super thick/stiff chamois (Pearl Izumi, for example) and my favorite pair of shorts is one made by Endura that I got on clearance from my LBS. Not sure what the model name is, but they have yellowish stitching down the front and back.

[Crankin]

I love my Sugoi RS Ultras. I can barely wear my Terry Bellas anymore. They changed something in the stitching of the chamois and widened it in the crotch area. Between that and my new saddle, it'snot good. Too bad, because they look good on me!

[ny biker]

Whereas Sugoi shorts don't fit me at all. I love Gore oxygen shorts.

[khg]

I've liked the Pearl Izumi PRO line--the chamois is a bit minimalist in a good sort of way--does what it needs to, without getting in the way (for me at least, as this is a highly personal thing!). As they tend to tweak things year to year, I don't know if that is still the case. But if you're getting off the bike and walking around, etc, that could be nice. I've worn regular clothes--shorts or skirt--over them often.

I also have done pretty well on bike with Castelli shorts, but they can feel a bit diaperish.

But my worst mistake was getting a pair of Rapha bibs--I find the chamois incredibly comfortable, and the fabric of the whole garment feels wonderful to me when I put it on. I love them! Which is a super bummer, because it would be a lot better for my wallet if I didn't...