I have the 2007 SSS short, as well as a pair of pedal pushers I bought last year (I think they're the 2006 model but I'm not absolutely sure).

The chamois is quite similar -- it looks the same in fact -- but the shorts chamois feels considerably plusher to me, without feeling much bulkier (this may be partially due to the fact that the shorts are newer, but I haven't worn the knickers THAT many times, so I feel that the chamois is a little different).

Anyway, I'm not sure what people didn't like about this chamois, but I like it a lot -- it's stretchy and flexible while being pretty cushioned. I haven't had any problems with chafing or rubbing. The only reason I would think people might complain is that it really isn't as dense as say, a typical PI chamois, and you'll feel that on a long ride, but this isn't a thin chamois either... It's certainly fine for 30 miles.

I just got the Terry Bella short, which has a similar chamois to the Shebeest short, and I think the Terry is a nicer short. The chamois is similarly flexible/stretchy, but much cushier/a bit denser, and the fit is more flattering and comfortable. Only complaint with the Bellas is that the lycra is slippery and makes me slide around more on my saddle than my other shorts!!!

Good luck!