Bike Short SIZING -- it is confusing!

[Batbike]

I keep reading ALL the threads on bike shorts and sizing, only to get more and more confused! I desparately need new bike shorts and would like to get something beyond my PI shorts, since those are the only ones I have really worn for the past several years. I feel that PI is good (YES, I like them) but they are the ONLY shorts I have really tried and I am not convinced they are necessarily the BEST shorts for me and my body type. Unfortunatley, it is the main brand of both my LBS's.

I think I am ignorant of how bike shorts are "suppose to fit", which is causing my confusion! I really do NOT fit any size chart, and have gone with the waist measurement as main measurement, ignoring hip and whatever else they show for shorts. Because of this, I have bought shorts with too big leg area, too much fabric -- causing movement in shorts --, and chamois that bunch (causing saddle sores). Now, my PI's aren't perfect either, but have been the best to date.

So, after ALL my rambling, my question: if you don't fit the size charts, what measurement do you look at to find the right short?! I know it is best to try them on, but seems that option is fading fast ... LBS just not carrying a variety of women's brands!

Help would be great!! THANKS!

[Pedal Wench]

How about getting the same size as your current PI's?

[DeniseGoldberg]

I recommend that you call TE with your measurements and see what they recommend.

If you're still not sure of the right size after talking with the gals at TE, another option is to order shorts in two sizes and return the ones that don't fit.

Also - be aware that different brands use different sizing. I used to wear PI shorts but switched to Sugoi last year, and I found that I take a size smaller in Sugoi shorts than I did in PI.

--- Denise

[Batbike]

I recommend that you call TE with your measurements and see what they recommend. --- Denise

I have been looking at TE and wanted to order some to try, but was scared to. Didn't know they may be able to recommend something ... THANKS, I think I will give them a call. Do you know if their return policy is good if they don't fit or I order 2 different sizes as you suggested?!

[KnottedYet]

their return policy is excellent! I've never had a problem, EVER!

I've called them a few times for help with sizing, and they really can get you an idea (even over the phone) how something will fit.

and if you have ANY sort of problem, Susan O will make it right!

In my opinion, TE is one of the best places to order from. (along with Ibex )

[DeniseGoldberg]

I have been looking at TE and wanted to order some to try, but was scared to. Didn't know they may be able to recommend something ...

Their service is awesome, fast shipping, and no problems with returns.

When I switched to Sugoi shorts last year I really wasn't sure about the size. I called TE, and Molly actually pulled out both the Sugoi shorts and a pair of PIs so she could give me an actual size comparison.

We're all so used to shopping online that sometimes we forget that a personal touch can help - and it's just a phone call away.

--- Denise

[Bluetree]

Bat,
TE is one of the best online stores I've ever dealt with. Fast, friendly and efficient. And their customer service is even better than Nordstrom... if such a thing is possible!

[Batbike]

How about getting the same size as your current PI's?

Yes, that would seem logical, but I am not sure my PI's fit "exactly right". Wondering if different sizing and/or different materials would give me a better fit and more comfort on longer rides.