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!